If you are planning to apply for a Guardian Visitor Visa anytime soon, there is an important update you must want to know about. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) recently announced that, starting November 3, 2025, all new visa applications should be submitted through the new and enhanced Immigration Online system.

However, applicants will still be able to access applications using the old application form. And INZ will notify all visa applicants when the old application form closes.

Why the Move to Online Applications

The decision to launch online applications comes amid ongoing efforts to enhance the visa application experience. INZ aims to deliver a simpler, faster, and more user-friendly visa application process.

The new online immigration system will reduce waiting times, provide a clear status of visa applications, and also increase self-service capabilities so everyone feels more informed and better supported.

What Happens to Draft and Submitted Applications

If you have a visa application in draft or submitted using the old application system, you will still be able to access or submit this application after 3 November 2025. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will notify you when the old application form is going to close.

Important Update for Current Visa Holders

If your child is seeking a new student visa and you want to apply for another Guardian Visitor Visa, both applications should go through the improved Immigration Online portal.

Understanding Guardian Visitor Visa

The Guardian Visitor Visa allow the parent or legal guardian of a child who is in New Zealand on a student visa to live with and care for their child. With this visa, parents can;

• Visit New Zealand and care for their child while they are studying.
• Work or study part-time in New Zealand.
• Travel and explore New Zealand as a tourist.

Who Can Apply for a Guardian Visitor Visa

To be eligible for the Guardian Visitor Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements;

• Have a child in New Zealand on a student visa.
• Be the parent or legal guardian of the child you want to act as guardian for.
• Have at least NZD $1,000 per month to live on, or NZD $400 per month if you’ve already paid for accommodation.
• Plan to leave New Zealand at the end of your stay.
• Must meet the other conditions for the Visa.

Visa Validity, Cost and Processing Times

Guardian Visitor Visa Validity

This visa allows you to stay in New Zealand as long as your child’s student visa is valid. In simple words, if your child’s student visa has validity for two years, your Guardian visitor visa will also be valid for two years.

Cost of Guardian Visitor Visa

The cost of applying for this visa starts at NZD $441; however, the applicant must pay additional charges such as the International Visitor Levy (IVL) and service fees from the Visa Application Centre. Depends on the country of application and nationality.

Processing Time

According to Immigration New Zealand (INZ), 80% of Guardian Visitor Visas are processed within six weeks. However, the exact processing times vary depending on your application and the nation from which you applied.

Other Conditions for Guardian Visitor Visa

It is worth mentioning that INZ will only issue this visa to one parent or legal guardian at a time, even if you have many children studying in New Zealand.

• Your child must be 17 or younger, or enrolled in grades 1 through 13, and have a valid student visa.
• If you want to bring your partner or other dependent children with you, they must have their own visa.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning to apply for a Guardian Visitor Visa, it’s best to get familiar with the new Immigration Online system early. The process is becoming smoother and faster, but keeping track of deadlines and updates from INZ will save you unnecessary stress later.

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