The New Zealand Government has implemented an important update to immigration policy that affects families bringing dependent children on temporary visas. As of 17 March 2025, children of temporary visa holders with severe cognitive or developmental disabilities requiring significant support are no longer eligible for student or visitor visas.
What’s Changing?
This policy applies to dependent children of holders of the following visa types:
- Work visas
- Student visas
- Military visas
Under the new regulations, if a child has a serious cognitive or developmental disability requiring a high level of support, they will no longer qualify for a student or visitor visa. These changes bring temporary visa health requirements in line with those already in place for resident class visas.
Why This Matters
1. Greater Policy Consistency
Until now, there has been a discrepancy between temporary and resident visa health standards. This update ensures a more uniform approach to immigration, helping families make more informed decisions when considering moving to or settling in New Zealand.
2. Clearer Pathways for Families
One of the major issues families have faced is uncertainty around residence eligibility due to their child’s health needs. These new rules bring greater clarity up front, reducing the risk of being declined for residence later in the process.
3. Managing Pressure on Public Services
The government states the update is part of a broader goal to balance New Zealand’s immigration needs with the capacity of its health and education systems. By screening for high-support needs earlier, they aim to better manage public resources.
What Families Should Do Next
If you’re planning to move to New Zealand on a temporary visa with dependent children, here are some steps to take:
- Review Health Criteria: Before applying, make sure you understand the acceptable standards of health for temporary visas. These are critical to avoid surprises down the track.
- Seek Professional Advice: An immigration advisor can help you understand the full impact of these changes on your family and suggest the best pathways forward.
- Prepare Documentation: If your child has medical or developmental needs, gather relevant medical documents early. This will be essential if applying for an exception or preparing an appeal.
How We Can Help
At Visa Advisers, we’re specialists in New Zealand immigration with a deep understanding of how policy changes can affect families. If you’re uncertain about how these updates impact your situation, don’t leave it to guesswork—talk to us. We’re here to make your immigration journey simpler, clearer, and more manageable, so you can make informed decisions about your family’s future in New Zealand.