Key Takeaways:
- Dependent Child Resident Visa enables New Zealand citizens or residents to bring their dependent children to live, study and work indefinitely.
- Eligibility requires children’s good character, health, single status, dependency, parent-child relationship, legal relocation right, and proof of residency.
- Application requires completing forms, submitting documents proving identity, health, character, dependency, English proficiency, paying fees, and awaiting processing.
How Can You Bring Your Dependent Children to New Zealand?
Bringing your children to join you in New Zealand can be a rewarding yet complex process. The Dependent Child Resident Visa allows you to bring your dependent children to New Zealand if you are a resident or citizen of New Zealand. It allows your children to study and work in New Zealand and stay for an unlimited period. This guide will help you understand the eligibility requirements, necessary documents, application process, and other pertinent details about this visa.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for a Dependent Child Resident Visa NZ?
To apply for the Dependent Child Visa in New Zealand, you and your children must meet specific criteria:
- Good Character: Your children must be of good character.
- Good Health: Your children must be in good health.
- Single and Financially Dependent: Your children must be single and financially dependent on you.
- Parent-Child Relationship: You must be the parent of your dependent children.
- NZ Residency or Citizenship: You must be a citizen or resident of New Zealand.
- Legal Right for Relocation: You must have the legal right to remove your dependent children from their home country.
- Proof of Residency: You must prove that you live in New Zealand.
- English Language Requirement: Dependent children older than 16 years must meet the English language requirements.
Who Is Not Eligible for an NZ Dependent Child Resident Visa?
Your children will not qualify for the Dependent Child Visa if they were eligible for New Zealand residency under specific categories but weren’t included in your residence application. These categories include:
- Family Quota
- Refugee Family Support Category
- Samoa Quota Scheme
- Pacific Access Category
If your child is a New Zealand citizen by birth or descent, they do not need to apply for residency.
What Documents Are Required for a Dependent Child Resident Visa NZ?
The application for an NZ Dependent Child Visa involves several essential documents to prove eligibility:
- Proof of Identity:
- Child’s full birth certificate
- Passport or certificate of identity
- Recent photographs meeting New Zealand photo requirements
- Proof of Good Character:
- Police certificates for children 17 or older, from their country of citizenship, or any other country where they have resided for more than one year in the last ten years.
- Proof of Good Health:
- Medical examination reports
- Chest x-ray for children 11 years or older
- Proof of Financial Dependency:
- Declaration of single status
- Details that confirm dependency, such as not working, living with family, or studying
- Proof of Parent-Child Relationship:
- Full birth certificates
- Adoption papers (if applicable)
- Other documents establishing the parent-child relationship
- Legal Right to Relocate:
- Documents confirming the right to relocate children from their home country, especially if divorced or separated
- Proof of New Zealand Residency or Citizenship:
- Original or certified copy of New Zealand passport, birth certificate, or a certificate of citizenship
- New Zealand Resident Visa or Australian passport
- Proof of Living in New Zealand:
- Letters addressed to you, utility bills, employment records, benefit payments, tax returns, or housing agreements
- Proof of English Language Proficiency (for children 16 or older if included in specific categories):
- Acceptable English language test results
- Proof of an English-speaking background
- Evidence of English-speaking capabilities
How Do You Apply Online for an NZ Dependent Child Resident Visa?
The online application process involves several steps:
- Complete the Online Application:
- Use the Dependent Child Resident Visa form to fill out the application.
- Ensure signatures from children 18 or older.
- Attach two recent photos.
- Upload Required Documents:
- Submit all necessary documents in PDF format as per the application’s size requirements.
- Pay the Application Fee:
- Provide bank card details to process the application fee via Visa or MasterCard.
- Submit the Online Application:
- After completing the application, submit it and wait for an email from Immigration New Zealand regarding your eVisa issuance.
How Do You Apply On Paper for a Dependent Child Resident Visa NZ?
The paper application process is detailed as follows:
- Complete Residence Application (INZ 1000):
- Fill out the Residence Application Form with the required personal details.
- Attach two recent photos meeting NZ photo requirements.
- Book an Appointment:
- Schedule an appointment with VFS.GLOBAL to submit your application at an application center. Note, the nearest center might be in another country.
- Attend the Appointment:
- During your appointment, submit all required documents and make sure none are missing to avoid application rejection.
- Pay the application fee of NZD $3,610 via Visa or MasterCard.
What Are the Fees for an NZ Dependent Child Resident Visa?
The application fee for the NZ Dependent Child Resident Visa is NZD $3,610, which includes an immigration levy. If Immigration New Zealand declines your application, the fee is non-refundable.
What Is the Processing Time for a Dependent Child Resident Visa NZ?
The processing time for an NZ Dependent Child Resident Visa is approximately eight months, with most applications processed within this period.
How Long Can My Children Stay in New Zealand on an NZ Dependent Child Resident Visa?
Your children can stay indefinitely in New Zealand on a Dependent Child Resident Visa. This allows you to live together and enjoy the benefits of New Zealand residency.
What Are the Conditions of a Dependent Child Resident Visa NZ?
Your children must meet various conditions under the Dependent Child Resident Visa:
- Entry Permission: Apply for entry permission when entering New Zealand.
- Section 49 Conditions: If your resident visa is subject to section 49 conditions, your child’s visa will also be subject to those conditions.
- Travel Conditions: They can enter and leave New Zealand freely until their travel conditions expire. After expiration, apply for a permanent resident visa or variation of conditions.
- Study and Work: They can study or work in New Zealand if they are of legal age.
- Valid Passport: Ensure their visa is in a valid passport. Upon passport expiry, transfer the visa to a new passport before traveling.
Additional Resources
For more detailed information, visit Immigration New Zealand’s official website.
By following this guide and ensuring all criteria and requirements are met, obtaining a Dependent Child Visa can be a smooth process, enabling your family to thrive together in New Zealand.
Still Got Questions? Read Below to Know More
What are the travel requirements for my dependent child if they need to frequently travel between New Zealand and their home country?
For your dependent child to frequently travel between New Zealand and their home country, they will need to meet several travel requirements to ensure smooth and legal transit.
- Valid Passport and Visa:
- Ensure your child has a valid passport.
- Depending on their citizenship, a visa or a visa waiver may be required for entry into New Zealand. Check the New Zealand Immigration website for specific visa information: NZ Immigration Visas.
- For their home country, verify the visa or re-entry permits required as per their regulations.
- Travel Documentation:
- It’s important to carry essential travel documents each time, including:
- Passports.
- Valid visas (for both New Zealand and their home country).
- Copies of birth certificates and proof of guardianship, if necessary.
- It’s important to carry essential travel documents each time, including:
- COVID-19 Requirements:
- Be aware of the latest COVID-19 travel advisories and entry requirements, which may include vaccination proof or negative test results. Check updates from the official websites, such as New Zealand’s Ministry of Health: NZ Ministry of Health COVID-19 Information.
“Ensure your child meets all entry requirements set by both New Zealand and their home country for hassle-free travel.”
For the most recent and detailed information, it’s advisable to regularly check official immigration websites and contact relevant authorities if you have specific concerns or require clarifications.
Are there any special considerations for bringing a dependent child with disabilities to New Zealand?
Yes, there are special considerations for bringing a dependent child with disabilities to New Zealand. When applying for a visa, health and character requirements must be met, which includes a medical assessment for your child. Immigration New Zealand will assess whether the child’s condition may impose significant costs or demands on New Zealand’s health or education services. There are specific provisions in the immigration policy to ensure the child’s needs are adequately addressed.
- Health Requirements: The child must meet acceptable health standards. According to Immigration New Zealand:
“Applicants must have an acceptable standard of health to be granted a visa to enter or stay in New Zealand.”
This includes providing a comprehensive medical certificate outlining the child’s condition and its implications. - Education and Care Needs: If your child requires special education or healthcare, your application should include detailed information on their needs. You might be asked to provide:
- Medical reports
- Details of special education requirements
- Evidence of support arrangements in New Zealand
- Support Services: New Zealand offers support services for children with disabilities through various government and community programs. It’s helpful to research and contact these services in advance. The Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education offer guidance and support that may be relevant.
For more detailed information, visit Immigration New Zealand’s official site here and review the Health Requirements page for specifics.
Understanding and preparing in advance will help ensure a smooth process for your child’s immigration to New Zealand.
Can my dependent child apply for a student visa instead of a Dependent Child Resident Visa in New Zealand?
Yes, your dependent child can apply for a student visa in New Zealand instead of a Dependent Child Resident Visa. The specific type of visa will largely depend on your child’s situation and future plans in New Zealand. Here are the main points to consider:
- Student Visa Requirements:
- Enrollment: Your child needs to be enrolled in a recognized New Zealand educational institution.
- Financial Proof: You must show proof that you can cover your child’s living expenses and educational costs.
- Health and Character Requirements: Your child must meet specific health and character standards.
The New Zealand Immigration website states: “If you want to study full-time in New Zealand for more than 3 months, you need a student visa.” You can find more details at Immigration New Zealand – Student Visa.
- Dependent Child Resident Visa:
- This visa is for children whose parents have residency or citizenship in New Zealand.
- It is suitable if you want your child to stay in New Zealand long-term without the need for regular visa renewals.
For residency requirements and details, refer to the official guide on the Immigration New Zealand – Dependent Child Resident Visa.
Choosing between a student visa and a Dependent Child Resident Visa depends on your long-term plans for your child. If your child is aiming for long-term residence and intends to live with you in New Zealand permanently, the Dependent Child Resident Visa might be more appropriate. However, if the focus is on education and they might return to your home country afterwards, a student visa might be better.
How can I prove my financial dependency for a dependent child who is attending university?
To prove financial dependency for a dependent child who is attending university, you need to provide specific types of evidence showing that you are supporting your child financially. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Financial Support Documents:
- Bank statements: Show regular transfers or payments for tuition, living expenses, or other related costs.
- Pay stubs: Indicate the amount of income available to support your child.
- Tax returns: Include documents showing your child as a dependent.
- Educational Documents:
- Proof of enrollment: Obtain a letter from the university confirming your child’s full-time enrollment.
- Tuition receipts: Provide evidence of payments made towards tuition and other university-related fees.
- Additional Supporting Documents:
- Housing lease or contracts: Show that you are paying for your child’s accommodation.
- Utility bills: Demonstrate that you cover living expenses or other essential services.
For more information, refer to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) guidelines and the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website, which provide detailed instructions on supporting documents required for proving financial dependency.
As quoted from USCIS, “Evidence of financial support, such as financial statements from banks or other financial institutions and proof of employment, should be included to establish dependency.” Ensure all documents are recent and clearly demonstrate the financial relationship.
What happens if my dependent child turns 18 while their visa application is being processed?
If your dependent child turns 18 while their visa application is still being processed, the impact largely depends on the specific immigration rules of the country you are applying to. In many cases, immigration authorities consider the age of the child at the time the application is lodged, not when it is processed. This means if your child was under 18 when you submitted the application, they often remain eligible as a dependent.
Here are a few key points to consider:
– Age Lock-In: Some countries have policies known as “age lock-in” provisions. For instance, the Child Status Protection Act in the United States allows certain visa applicants to retain the age they were at the date of application filing, even if they turn 21 afterwards. For more details, visit the USCIS Official Website.
– Visa Category: Different visa categories have different age requirements. It is important to check the specific guidance for the visa you are applying for. The website of the immigration department of the country involved is usually the best source. For instance, the UK has specific age guidelines for child dependents under the UK Visas and Immigration guidelines.
– Documentation and Evidence: You may need to provide additional documentation or evidence to prove that your child was under the age threshold at the time of application. Keep all records and receipts as proof.
“Each country’s immigration laws differ, so it’s crucial to check the official guidelines or seek legal advice directly related to your case. For Canada, visit the IRCC Website for detailed guidance on dependent child age limits.”
Learn Today:
Glossary
- Dependent Child Resident Visa: A visa that allows children who are financially dependent and single to join their parent(s) who are residents or citizens of New Zealand. This visa grants the child the right to live, study, and work in New Zealand indefinitely.
Good Character: A requirement for visa eligibility which indicates that the individual should not have a criminal record or any negative behavioral history that might threaten public safety or order in New Zealand.
Proof of Financial Dependency: Documentation that demonstrates a child is financially reliant on their parent(s), typically shown through lack of employment, living arrangements, and education status.
Legal Right to Relocate: Authorization proving the parent has the legal ability to remove their child from their home country, which may be necessary in cases of divorce or separation.
Section 49 Conditions: Specific requirements or limitations that must be met by a resident visa holder in New Zealand. If applicable to the parent, these conditions will also apply to their dependent child’s visa.
This Article In A Nutshell:
To bring your dependent children to New Zealand, apply for the Dependent Child Resident Visa. You must be a New Zealand resident or citizen, and your children must meet health, character, and dependency requirements. The visa allows them to study, work, and stay indefinitely in New Zealand.
— By VisaVerge.com
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