When applying for a visa, your health is an important part of the assessment process. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) requires most applicants to meet what is called an “acceptable standard of health.” This requirement exists to protect both the applicant and the wider community in New Zealand.
Immigration New Zealand assesses health to determine whether an applicant may pose a risk to public health, place significant demand on health or special education services, or be unable to work or study as intended. As part of this process, applicants are often required to complete a medical examination or provide medical certificates from an approved panel physician.
INZ will consider whether your condition could result in significant healthcare costs, require ongoing specialist support, or qualify for services such as Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS) funding. Certain serious conditions, such as untreated tuberculosis or medical issues requiring full-time care, may mean an applicant does not meet the standard health requirements.
However, not meeting the acceptable standard of health does not automatically mean your visa application will be declined.
A medical waiver allows Immigration New Zealand to approve a visa even if you do not meet the standard health requirements. It is not something you apply for separately. Instead, it is considered as part of your visa application once INZ has identified that you do not meet the health criteria.
Medical waivers are available for some temporary visas and residence visas, depending on the visa category and your circumstances. For example, partners of New Zealand citizens or residents, dependent children, certain workers, and residence applicants may be eligible for a waiver.
Immigration New Zealand considers several factors when deciding whether to grant a waiver. These include:
The likely cost or demand your condition may place on New Zealand’s health or education services
Your personal ties to New Zealand, such as family connections
Your ability to work, contribute skills, or provide other benefits to New Zealand
The overall strength of your visa application
Each case is assessed individually. Even if you have a medical condition, a strong application with clear benefits and compelling personal circumstances may improve your chances.
Our team have helped many others in the same position as you. Get in right the first time with our expert guidance.
Some medical conditions are considered high risk and may make a waiver unlikely. These include conditions requiring dialysis, severe bleeding disorders, untreated tuberculosis, or situations where full-time care is needed. These conditions are considered likely to create significant ongoing healthcare costs or care needs.
Each person included in a visa application is assessed separately. This means one family member’s medical condition may affect their own eligibility, but not necessarily prevent others from being granted visas.
It is also important to understand that a medical waiver does not guarantee visa approval. It simply allows Immigration New Zealand to consider approving your application despite health concerns.
Senior Associate | Solicitor
Solicitor
