From 17 March 2025, Immigration New Zealand is changing the health screening rules for dependent children of temporary visa holders. These changes apply to children applying for student and visitor visas as dependents of work, student, or military visa holders.
Key Takeaways
- Temporary and residence visa health rules will now be the same – This ensures consistency across visa categories.
- Principal applicants can now apply for a medical waiver – Previously, dependent children of temporary visa holders were not eligible for a medical waiver. Now, in some cases, this may be possible.
- Families will have clarity before relocating – These changes prevent situations where families move to New Zealand only to find out later that their child – and therefore the entire family in most cases – does not qualify for residence.
What are the new health screening rules?
From 17 March 2025, children with severe developmental disorders or severe cognitive impairments who need significant support will not meet the health requirements for a student or visitor visa. This means they cannot get a visa if their condition requires a lot of medical or educational support.
According to the updated Acceptable Standard of Health (A4.15) rules, conditions that may affect eligibility include:
- Physical disabilities that need ongoing support
- Intellectual disabilities
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Brain injuries
Immigration New Zealand will assess whether a child is likely to require expensive healthcare, hospital stays, or special education services. A family’s ability to pay for private healthcare or education will not change the decision.
Who will be affected?
These new health screening rules apply to dependent children of temporary visa holders applying for:
- Student visas (excluding Fee Paying Student Visas)
- Visitor visas
However, children applying for Fee Paying Student Visas (where international students pay for schooling) are not affected by this rule.
Why are these changes being made?
The government is introducing these changes to:
- Align health rules for temporary and residence visa applicants.
- Give families clarity about their child’s future residency eligibility.
- Prevent families from moving to New Zealand, only to discover later they do not qualify for residence.
- Reduce pressure on New Zealand’s health and education systems.
- Ensure fairness for all migrants entering New Zealand.
Can I get a medical waiver for a temporary visa?
A medical waiver (special approval) for a temporary visa is now possible for dependent children of work, student visa or military visa holders, whereas in the past, they have only been possible for dependent children and partners of New Zealand citizens and residents, refugees, and seconded business personnel. Please note, a medical waiver does not guarantee future residence approval.
What Should Migrant Families Do Now?
If you plan to bring a child to New Zealand on a student or visitor visa, check if they meet the new health requirements. New Zealand’s visa health rules can be complex. If you need guidance, our licensed immigration advisors can explain how these changes affect your family. Contact us today for expert advice and to plan your next steps.
Stay informed and plan ahead—New Zealand’s immigration policies are changing, we’re here to work with you all of the way.
Marie Hunt
Licenced immigration Adviser