Parent Boost Visa Health Insurance Series: If You’re Coming from South Africa.
The following is specific to UniMed/Accuro ParentStay Policy, and how it works with the new Parent Boost Visa Health Insurance. If you want to know about the Orbit policy then click here.
Context for South African Applicants
If you are applying for the Parent Boost Visitor Visa to come to New Zealand from South Africa, it means that you wish to spend more time with your children and grand children. It means that a few short weeks or months with them isn't enough. It says you desire the flexibility or being able to stay longer and come and go with ease. Immigration New Zealand have made a health insurance requirement a core visa condition to cover unexpected healthcare costs during your stay. It protects you and your family from potentially high medical bills as well as the public health service here.
Who ParentStay Is For
ParentStay health insurance from UniMed/Accuro is specifically designed to satisfies Immigration NZ’s criteria for Parent Boost Visa compliance. It meets the minimum requirements and in some cases exceeds them. There are only 2 options currently on the market and if you wish to look at the Orbit/nib policy then you can get a quote here.
Inclusion Overview
This table shows the main benefits for the ParentStay Health Insurance, but read the policy wording to see what is covered and what isn’t. You can be confident that it does meet the requirements to obtain the Parent Boost Visa.
| Benefit | Standard Coverage |
|---|---|
| Emergency Medical | NZD $250,000/year |
| Cancer Treatment | NZD $100,000/year |
| Repatriation | NZD $250,000 |
| Return of Remains | NZD $50,000 |
| Mental Health | NZD $1,000/year |
Premiums in ZAR
You must pay the full premium upfront and submit the invoice/receipt along with the policy document to Immigration NZ to obtain the visa. There is also no option to reduce the premium with a co-pay or excess. For a personal quote please contact me.
| Age | Annual Premium (NZD) | Annual Premium (NZD) |
| 50 | $2960.88 | ZAR 28,839 |
| 55 | $3300.48 | ZAR 32,147 |
| 60 | $3866.40 | ZAR 37,659 |
| 65 | $5838.24 | ZAR 56,865 |
| 70 | $7729.44 | ZAR 75,285 |
| 75 | $9213.60 | ZAR 89,741 |
| 80 | $10758.96 | ZAR 104,793 |
The prices are from the company quote tool and are correct as of 28/12/2025. The conversion is based on $1 NZ to ZAR 9.74, correct as of 28.12.2025
Policy Exclusions
The policy includes built-in exclusions, so review the policy wording to understand them. Typical exclusions include:
- Uncovered pre-existing diseases not accepted
- Long-term non-urgent care
- Elective procedures
Unimed/Accuro may decline applicants with serious conditions such as life-limiting prognoses, chronic oxygen dependence, or major organ disease. If cover for pre-existing conditions is important then please get in touch.
How to Apply
Once Immigration approves the visa in principle, complete and submit the application form for the Parent Boost Visa Health Insurance. The application should also include a copy of the medical carried out for the visa. Get this from Immigration or the medical professional who completed the health check. The application also includes a life history, which underwriting reviews. Underwriting can take up to five working days before the insurer sends an offer.
Other Costs for South African Applicants to Consider
| Expense | NZD | Approx. ZAR |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Fee | $3,000 | ZAR 29,220 |
| Tourism Levy | $100 | ZAR 974 |
| Third-Year Health Check | $325 | ZAR 3,165 |
The conversion is based on $1 NZ to ZAR 9.74, correct as of 28.12.2025
Visa Medical Costs in SA
Panel physician tests (chest X-ray, blood tests and consultation) in South Africa may cost approximately ZAR 1,500–3,000+ depending on provider. If Immigration NZ require investigations beyond routine medicals, these can significantly increase the total cost. For more information or a quote please contact me.
Summary
South African parents and grand parents should plan for the combined costs of ParentStay insurance, visa fees, medical exams, and travel. Securing accurate quotes and factoring in health examination and policy underwriting will help ensure a compliant visa application that doesn't contain unpleasant surprises.
Cover Yours Ltd (FSP769531) and Marc Hamilton (FSP306046) are registered Financial Service Providers and you can search the register here. Marc Hamilton is a member of the FSCL Disputes Resolution Service. Cover Yours Ltd and Marc Hamilton’s disclosures can be found here or by emailing marc@coveryours.co.nz
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