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- By Parmjeet Parmar, Pakuranga-based ACT List MP
One of the most impactful things we can do in immigration policy is help families stay connected – while keeping the system fair and sustainable for everyone.
That’s why I’m proud the Government is delivering on ACT’s commitment to introduce a renewable, multi-year parent visa.
From September, the new visa will allow the overseas parents of New Zealanders to spend more time with their families.
This is a real win for migrant families, and for all New Zealanders who’ll benefit from an immigration system that works.
Migrants contribute significantly to New Zealand. They’re engineers, nurses, IT specialists and entrepreneurs.
They bring skills we rely on from around the world to help New Zealand thrive.
In the global war for talent, people aren’t just looking at the salaries on offer.
They look at whether they’ll be able to spend time with their wider family and enjoy the supports provided by them.
That’s why ACT campaigned in 2023 on a new parent visa that would give families more certainty.
We promised a system that would allow longer stays, allow multiple entries for those with family commitments in multiple countries, and ensure visitors cover their own healthcare needs. We’re delivering on that promise.
The Parent Boost Visa provides up to five years of multi-entry access for parents of New Zealanders, subject to clear and reasonable conditions.
It strikes the right balance to maintain fairness and protection for the taxpayer.
Applicants must meet health, character, and insurance standards – and demonstrate they can support themselves without becoming a burden on taxpayers.
In our original proposal, ACT suggested a modest levy to fund any healthcare use.
The Government has taken a different path, requiring private insurance cover for emergencies instead.
I’m aware of several insurers actively developing new policies to satisfy this new visa.
The outcome is the same. Families get peace of mind, and taxpayers aren’t left footing the bill.
This policy sends a clear signal that we value skilled migrants – not just as workers, but as people with families, responsibilities, and lives to build.
It also shows how ACT is making a difference in Government. We’ve helped deliver a policy that’s compassionate, economically responsible, and practical to implement.
It’s fair to taxpayers, good for families, and aligned with New Zealand’s long-term interests.
