The Parent Resident Visa offers a vital opportunity for parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to reunite with their families and settle in New Zealand. At Immigration Chambers, we understand how important it is to bring your loved ones closer. This guide provides a complete and structured explanation of every step, requirement, and responsibility involved in applying for the Parent Resident Visa.
Eligibility Criteria for the Parent Resident Visa
To be eligible for this visa, applicants must have a child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident meeting the sponsorship requirements. The applicant must also meet character, health, and—when necessary—English language requirements.
Key Eligibility Points:
- Age of Sponsor: Must be 18 years or older.
- Residency Duration: Sponsor must have been a resident or citizen for at least 3 years.
- Physical Presence: Sponsor must have lived in New Zealand for 184+ days in each of the 3 years prior to the application.
- Income Threshold: Sponsor must meet or exceed minimum income levels based on the number of parents applying and whether income is combined with a partner or sibling.
Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI)
To initiate the process, applicants must complete the Parent Category Expression of Interest Form, providing:
- Personal identity and character information
- Health status
- English language ability (or agreement to pay for lessons)
- Details about family and partner
- Sponsor(s) and their income details
Important Notes:
- No documents are required at the EOI stage
- EOIs are selected from a ballot every 3 months
- Each EOI is valid for 2 years
Invitation to Apply for Residence
If selected from the EOI ballot, the applicant will receive:
- Parent Category Residence Application Form
- Requirement to submit supporting documents for all claims made in the EOI
Documents Required:
- 2 recent passport-size photographs
- Original or certified copy of passport or birth certificate
- Police certificates for applicants 17 years and above
- Medical certificates (after invitation only)
- English test results or evidence of English background
- Relationship evidence with partner and child
Health and Character Requirements
Health Requirements:
Applicants must undergo:
- A medical examination
- A chest X-ray (if required)
These evaluations confirm that applicants do not pose a public health risk and are fit to reside in New Zealand.
Character Requirements:
- Police certificates from all countries where the applicant has lived 12+ months in the last 10 years
- Must be less than 6 months old
- Must be translated into English if not in English originally
English Language Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient English ability or commit to language education:
Accepted Evidence:
- Results from an acceptable English language test (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
- Proof of an English-speaking background
- Agreement to pre-pay for English language tuition
If the partner is included in the application, the same requirements apply to them.
Sponsorship Requirements
The sponsoring child must commit to supporting the parent(s) and must:
- Be a New Zealand citizen or resident without section 49 conditions
- Provide evidence of residence in NZ, such as:
- Utility bills
- Employment letters
- Inland Revenue tax statements
- Lease or mortgage agreements
- Prove relationship via:
- Birth certificate
- Adoption documents
- Guardianship orders (if applicable)
Income Requirements:
Sponsors must meet income thresholds based on New Zealand’s median wage, which scale based on:
- Number of parents sponsored
- Whether sponsorship is shared with a partner or sibling
Read more: New Zealand Visitor Visa Financial Requirements: Accommodation by an Acceptable Sponsor
Application Fees and Submission Process
Fees and receiving center details vary by applicant’s country of residence. To retrieve precise figures:
- Enter your country of residence on the INZ visa page.
- Note that fees may differ for paper vs. online submission.
- Prepare for additional charges such as medical exams and language tests.
Post-Visa Conditions
Once the Parent Resident Visa is granted, the following conditions apply:
Entry Permission:
- Complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration upon arrival.
- Be subject to Customs and Biosecurity checks.
Travel Conditions:
- Travel freely in and out of New Zealand for 2 years from first arrival.
- After travel conditions expire:
- Apply for variation of conditions, or
- Apply for a Permanent Resident Visa
Work and Study:
- Visa holders can work in any job and study in New Zealand.
Sponsor’s Ongoing Obligations (10 Years)
For a decade after the parent obtains residency, the sponsor must:
- Provide suitable accommodation
- Ensure the parent’s health and welfare
- Pay for any deportation or repatriation costs, if required
Failure to meet these can lead to:
- Sponsor’s debt to the New Zealand government
- Deportation of the parent due to breach of visa conditions
Tips for a Successful Application
- Keep documents up to date: Especially police and medical certificates.
- Be honest and thorough in your EOI to prevent discrepancies later.
- Seek professional assistance for complex cases or incomplete relationships.
- Monitor email regularly for any updates or correspondence from INZ.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Submitting expired documents
- Not meeting income thresholds
- Assuming English ability exemptions without proof
- Failure to respond promptly to INZ communication
Why Choose Immigration Chambers?
At Immigration Chambers, we specialize in New Zealand visa applications with a focus on parent and family reunification visas. Our immigration experts:
- Ensure all documents and forms are complete
- Provide personalized advice on sponsorship and income criteria
- Guide you through EOI submissions and residence applications
- Assist with translations and certified copies
Wrapping up
The Parent Resident Visa is an essential pathway to family reunification in New Zealand. With complex eligibility and document requirements, it is crucial to approach the process with precision and care. Let our experienced legal team maximize your chances of a successful outcome.
Contact our Licensed Immigration Lawyer New Zealand today for professional assistance with your Parent Resident Visa application.