Am I too old to emigrate to New Zealand? Your comprehensive guide

According to the National Institutes of Health, New Zealand is expecting its older adult population to double in the next 20 years. This trend highlights the country's appeal and prompts many to ask, "Am I too old to emigrate to New Zealand?" The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. For those seeking a vibrant lifestyle surrounded by nature, several visa pathways remain open, though skilled migration has an age cap. Understanding the requirements for investor, retirement, and family-sponsored visas is key to planning a successful move later in life.

Quick Summary

Despite a 55-year age limit for skilled migrant visas, several pathways allow older adults to emigrate to New Zealand, primarily through investment, temporary retirement, or family sponsorship, requiring significant financial resources and meeting health and character criteria.

Key Points

• Age is Not a Total Barrier: While the Skilled Migrant Visa has a 55-year age limit, other visas like investor, temporary retirement, and family-sponsored options are available for older applicants.

• Investment is Key: Many pathways for older adults, such as the Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa and the Active Investor Plus Visa, are contingent on significant financial investment.

• Family Sponsorship Matters: Having an adult child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident can provide a route to permanent residency via the Parent Resident Visa, though financial requirements still apply.

• Healthcare is Not Automatic: Temporary visa holders must arrange for private health insurance, as access to the publicly funded system is generally for permanent residents.

• Thorough Planning is Essential: A successful move requires meticulous planning of finances, healthcare, and lifestyle factors to navigate the visa process and settle comfortably.

Age Limits and the Skilled Migrant Category

While the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa, a common route for immigration, has an age limit of 55 at the time of application, this doesn't mean all doors are closed for older individuals. This visa is designed to attract skilled workers, but other options exist for those over this age.

Investment and Retirement Visas

Individuals with substantial financial resources have options that bypass the age restrictions of skilled migration.

Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa

This visa is for those aged 66 and over, allowing a stay of up to two years, which can be renewed. Requirements include investing at least NZ$750,000 in New Zealand for two years, having NZ$500,000 for living expenses, and an annual income of NZ$60,000. This visa does not lead to permanent residency and restricts employment.

Active Investor Plus Visa

This residency visa requires a significant investment of NZ$5 million to NZ$15 million. It has no age limit and provides a path to permanent residency after three years, provided investment and stay requirements are met.

Family-Sponsored Visa Pathways

Having family in New Zealand can provide a route for emigration regardless of age.

Parent Resident Visa

This visa allows parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to gain permanent residency. It is a ballot system with requirements including sponsorship by an eligible adult child who has lived in New Zealand for at least three years, the child meeting income thresholds, and an investment of NZ$1 million over four years, plus NZ$500,000 in settlement funds.

Parent Boost Visa

A temporary option, this visa allows parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to stay for five years, potentially extendable to ten. It is not a residency pathway but allows for extended family visits without the high financial commitment of the Parent Resident Visa.

Comparison of Visa Options for Older Adults

Here's a comparison of the primary visa options available for older individuals considering a move to New Zealand.

Feature	Temporary Retirement Visa	Parent Resident Visa	Active Investor Plus Visa
Age Requirement	66+	No specific age limit; sponsored by adult child	No age limit
Investment	NZ$750,000 for 2 years	NZ$1 million for 4 years	NZ$5 to NZ$15 million for 3 years
Income	NZ$60,000 annual income	NZ$60,000 annual income	No specific income requirement
Residency Pathway	No, temporary only	Yes, pathway to permanent residency	Yes, pathway to permanent residency
Key Requirement	Significant investment and income	Sponsorship by adult child + investment	Substantial investment
Work Rights	No	Yes	Yes

Healthcare, Finances, and Lifestyle Considerations

Moving to New Zealand requires careful consideration of healthcare and finances. While the public healthcare system is available to permanent residents, temporary visa holders need comprehensive health insurance. Long-term care options are available, often subject to means testing. Significant financial planning is crucial for investment visas, and consulting with financial and immigration experts is recommended, considering the potentially higher cost of living. New Zealand offers a relaxed lifestyle and natural beauty. However, consider the impact of remoteness on family connections and potentially higher costs for some goods. Engaging with local communities can aid integration.

Planning Your Emigration

Effective planning is essential. Research visa options early, gather required documents, and plan your finances. Opening a New Zealand bank account and arranging temporary accommodation are also important steps. Consulting a licensed immigration adviser can help navigate the process. For official and current information, visit the Immigration New Zealand website(https://www.immigration.govt.nz/visas/temporary-retirement-visitor-visa/).

Conclusion Being older does not automatically disqualify you from emigrating to New Zealand. While the skilled migrant route has an age cap, pathways exist through investment, temporary retirement, or family sponsorship for those with sufficient resources or family ties. Careful research and planning are vital for a successful move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any visa options for emigrating to New Zealand if I am over 65?

Yes, if you are 66 or older, the Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa is a primary option, provided you meet the substantial investment and income requirements. You must be able to invest NZ$750,000 for two years, have NZ$500,000 in settlement funds, and an annual income of NZ$60,000.

Can I get permanent residency in New Zealand if I am over the age for the Skilled Migrant Visa?

Yes, permanent residency is possible through other avenues. The Parent Resident Visa offers a pathway if you are sponsored by an eligible adult child in New Zealand, and the Active Investor Plus visa provides a route for those making substantial investments,.

What are the financial requirements for emigrating to New Zealand as an older adult?

Financial requirements vary significantly by visa type. The Temporary Retirement Visa requires an investment of NZ$750,000 and an annual income of NZ$60,000, while the Parent Resident Visa involves a NZ$1 million investment over four years, plus NZ$500,000 in settlement funds,.

What happens to my healthcare as an older immigrant in New Zealand?

As a permanent resident, you can access New Zealand’s publicly funded healthcare system. However, if you are on a temporary visa, you must secure private health insurance, as public funding may not cover your care. Regardless, some services like dental care are often not covered for adults,.

Can I bring my partner with me if I emigrate to New Zealand on a retirement visa?

Yes, you can typically include your partner in your visa application for both the Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa and the Parent Resident Visa, provided you can demonstrate a genuine and stable relationship,.

Is it possible to emigrate to New Zealand if I don't have an adult child who is a citizen or resident?

Yes. If you don't have a child to sponsor you, your primary options are investment-based visas like the Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa or the Active Investor Plus Visa, which are dependent on your financial resources rather than family ties,.

What are some of the lifestyle differences to consider before emigrating to New Zealand at an older age?

Important considerations include the potentially high cost of living, particularly for housing in major cities. The country's remoteness can also impact travel and connectivity with family overseas. However, the relaxed pace of life, stunning scenery, and low crime rates are significant benefits for many older adults.