Parent Boost Visa Health Insurance Series: If You’re Coming from the UK/EU.
UK Parents & UniMed/Accuro ParentStay Insurance: Premiums, Visa Requirements & Cost Breakdown. This blog only discusses the UniMed/Accuro ParentStay Policy if you want to know about the Orbit policy? Click here.
Why it matters for UK parents
If you are applying from the UK for a Parent Boost Visa from Immigration NZ it's because you want to be close to family. You want to spend time with children and Grandchildren. If you've got this far you'll know health insurance is part of the criteria. This is to protect both you and NZ’s health system, so it's vital to include the cost of health insurance in any budget, as it can be expensive,
Who This Insurance Is For
ParentStay by Accuro/Unimed is for Parent Boost Visa applicants who must demonstrate at least 12 months of valid cover to get their visa. Health insurance is not something Brits are used to paying and the price can surprise many. Exclusions due to pre-existing conditions can also shock those used to the NHS. That's why it is smart to check premiums and coverage before spending money on an application.
Parent Boost Visa Health Insurance Overview
The Accuro/Unimed ParentStay policy offers cover which meets the criteria set out by Immigration NZ in the Parent Boost Visa.
| Cover Type | Minimum Mandatory Cover (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Emergency Medical | $250,000/year |
| Cancer Treatment | $100,000/year |
| Repatriation | $250,000 lifetime |
| Return of Remains | $50,000 lifetime |
| Mental Health | $1,000/year |
Premiums in GBP
Health insurance premiums increase with age and for this visa the country of origin is important. You must pay the full premium in advance and submit proof of payment and the policy to immigration to allow them to issue the visa. There is no option for instalments or an excess to reduce the premium.
The UK/NZ Reciprocal Agreement doesn't cover those on a long-term stay, including visitors on a Parent Boost Visa. This is the only option.
| Age | Annual Premium (NZD) | Annual Premium (GBP) |
| 50 | $3345.84 | £1446.74 |
| 55 | $3713.04 | £1605.52 |
| 60 | $4327.92 | £1871.39 |
| 65 | $6557.88 | £2835.63 |
| 70 | $8697.17 | £3760.66 |
| 75 | $10352.40 | £4476.38 |
| 80 | $12215.28 | £5281.89 |
These figures are based on quotes done on 28.12.25 and are in $NZ. Exchange rate is based on $1 NZ = £0.43, correct as of 28.12.25. For a personal quote please contact me.
Exclusions
A full list of exclusions are in the policy document but common exclusions for ParentStay include:
- Pre-existing conditions not accepted at underwriting
- Long-term non-urgent care
- Routine GP visits
Any additional exclusions above those mentioned in the wording will be detailed on your policy certificate after underwriting has been completed. If there is a need for treament in New Zealand when on a Parent Boost Visa for the UK and the condition is exclused, you will be responsible for the costs.
Serious conditions such as advanced heart failure, organ transplant, or terminal prognosis generally render applicants ineligible for ParentStay
Application Steps
To make an application for health insurance for the PArent Boost Visa through Unimed/Accuro you must:
- Obtain visa approval in principle.
- Get a quote based on age/health.
- Submit insurer application and pay premium
If you have any questions about pre-existing conditions or if you want a personal quote for budgeting then contact me.
Other Costs
| Item | NZD | Approx. GBP |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Fee | $3,000 | £1297.20 |
| Tourism Levy | $100 | £43.24 |
| 3rd Year Health Check | $325 | £152.20 |
UK Immigration Medical Costs
Private immigration medical/X-ray in the UK can cost £150–£300+. If there are any concerns uncovered in the medical further investigations can add significantly to this if carried out privately.
Summary
For UK parents, the combined outgoing costs of comprehensive ParentStay insurance, visa fees, medical checks, and travel can be significant — plan ahead and secure quotes early to budget for the Parent Boost Visa health insurance requirements.
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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