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New Zealand Eases Health Rules for Resident Visa Applicants
New Zealand has relaxed its health assessment rules for resident visa applicants by removing hepatitis B and C from its list of high-cost health conditions.
The change, which applies to applications submitted on or after August 3, 2026, follows a review by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) that found the cost of treating both conditions has fallen significantly.
Applicants with hepatitis B or C will no longer be automatically assessed as failing New Zealand's acceptable standard of health requirement. Instead, INZ medical assessors will evaluate each applicant based on their individual medical circumstances.
The decision is expected to benefit many prospective migrants, including Indians seeking permanent residence in the country.