The New Zealand government has announced upcoming changes to the immigration health requirements for dependent children of temporary visa holders. Effective from 17 March 2025, these new regulations will impact families applying for student and visitor visas for their children. Under the new rules, dependent children of work, student, or military visa holders will no longer be eligible for student and visitor visas if they have a severe cognitive or developmental disability requiring significant support. This marks a shift in policy aimed at aligning the health requirements for temporary entry visas with those already in place for resident class visas. Why the Changes Are Being Implemented These adjustments are designed to provide clarity upfront for families who may later be excluded from gaining residency due to their child’s high learning needs. By ensuring that health criteria are consistent across different visa types, the government aims to create a more transparent and predictable immigration process. Additionally, this policy change seeks to balance New Zealand’s need for skilled workers, students, and visitors with the management of costs and demands on the country’s health and education systems. The government has emphasized that aligning these health requirements across visa categories promotes consistency while also reducing the potential burden on schools and healthcare resources. Implications for Families and Schools For families considering temporary relocation to New Zealand, these changes may affect their eligibility and long-term plans. Parents of children with high learning needs should assess their options carefully and consider how these regulations might influence their ability to work or study in New Zealand. New Zealand schools will also benefit from these adjustments by ensuring that educational resources are allocated effectively. By setting clear expectations for visa eligibility, the policy aims to support sustainable education funding and special needs support within the school system. While these changes may be challenging for some families, the government’s intention is to establish a fair and consistent immigration system that considers both the needs of migrants and the country’s resource capabilities. Families affected by these changes are encouraged to seek further guidance to understand their options before the new policy takes effect on 17 March 2025. Read more on the Immigration New Zealand website. Not sure if this affects you? Get in touch with us today!
