Key Takeaways:
- The Dependent Child Resident Visa allows New Zealand residents and citizens to bring their dependent children to live indefinitely.
- Eligibility includes good character, good health, financial dependency, and proof of parentage and New Zealand residency.
- The application process requires detailed documentation, an online or paper application, an NZD $3,610 fee, and takes about eight months.
What is the Dependent Child Resident Visa?
The Dependent Child Resident Visa allows residents and citizens of New Zealand to bring their dependent children to the country. This visa grants children the right to live, study, and work in New Zealand indefinitely. By reuniting families, New Zealand provides an opportunity for parents and children to experience life together in one of the world’s most beautiful and vibrant countries.
Who is Eligible for a Dependent Child Resident Visa?
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Good Character: Your children must be of good character to qualify.
- Good Health: Your children must meet New Zealand’s health standards.
- Single and Financially Dependent: Your children must be single and financially dependent on you.
- Proof of Parentage: You must prove that you are the parent of the dependent children.
- New Zealand Resident or Citizen: You must be a resident or citizen of New Zealand.
- Legal Right to Remove from Home Country: You must have the legal right to remove your children from their home country.
- Proof of Residence in New Zealand: You must prove you live in New Zealand.
- English Language Requirements: Children older than 16 must meet minimum English language requirements.
Ineligible Conditions
- Your children are not eligible if they were supposed to be included in your initial New Zealand Resident Visa application but were not included under the Family Quota, Refugee Family Support Category, Samoa Quota Scheme, or Pacific Access Category.
What Documents Are Required for a Dependent Child Resident Visa?
Proof of Identity
- Birth Certificate: Provide your child’s full birth certificate or a certified copy.
- Passport or Certificate of Identity: Upload a copy of your child’s passport if applying online.
- Photos: One or two visa-sized photos meeting New Zealand’s photo requirements.
Proof of Good Character and Good Health
- Police Certificates: Required if your children are 17 or older; must be less than six months old and from all countries they have lived in for at least 12 months in the last 10 years.
- Medical Examination: Required for all children; those 11 years or older need to provide a chest x-ray as well.
Proof of Financial Dependency and Parentage
- Financial Dependency: Immigration New Zealand considers children dependent if they are younger than 17, or between 18 and 24 with no children of their own.
- Parentage: Provide full birth certificates, adoption papers, or any documents proving parent-child relationships.
Legal Right to Remove Dependent Children
- Provide documents showing you have the right to decide where the children live or that the other parent agrees to the move, if applicable.
Proof of Citizenship or Residency and Residence in New Zealand
- Submit a New Zealand passport, birth certificate, certificate of citizenship, Resident Visa, or an Australian passport.
- Proof of Residence: Letters addressed to you, employment records, benefit payment records, or documents showing belongings have been moved to New Zealand.
English Language Requirements
- For children older than 16 and included in certain categories like General Skills or Skilled Migrant:
- An acceptable English test result.
- Proof of English-speaking background.
- Evidence they can speak English for other reasons.
How Do You Apply for a Dependent Child Resident Visa Online?
Step-by-Step Online Application Process
- Complete the Online Application: Provide all necessary information about the child, including photos.
- Upload Required Documents: All documents must be in PDF format and properly sized.
- Pay the Application Fee: The fee is NZD $3,610 and can be paid online via Visa or MasterCard.
- Submit the Application: Once submitted, await an email from Immigration New Zealand regarding the application’s status.
How Do You Apply for a Dependent Child Resident Visa on Paper?
Step-by-Step Paper Application Process
- Complete the Residence Application (INZ 1000): Fill out the form, attaching two visa-sized photos that meet New Zealand’s requirements.
- Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment with VFS.GLOBAL to submit the visa application.
- Attend the Appointment: Submit all necessary documents and pay the application fee of NZD $3,610 via Visa or MasterCard.
How Long Does it Take to Process a Dependent Child Resident Visa?
The processing time for a Dependent Child Resident Visa is approximately eight months. Most applications are processed within this timeframe, though the completeness and accuracy of your application can affect this.
How Long Can My Children Stay in New Zealand with an NZ Dependent Child Resident Visa?
With a Dependent Child Resident Visa, your children can stay in New Zealand indefinitely. This visa allows them to enjoy all the benefits that come with New Zealand residency, such as access to education and healthcare.
What Are the Conditions of a Dependent Child Resident Visa?
Entry and Travel Conditions
- Entry Permission: Your children must apply for entry permission when they enter New Zealand.
- Section 49 Conditions: If your resident visa is subject to these conditions, your child’s visa will be too.
- Permanent Resident Visa: After the travel conditions expire, applying for a permanent resident visa or a variation of conditions is necessary.
- Valid Passport: For travel, visas must be in a valid passport. If the passport expires, transfer the visa to a new one before traveling.
Study and Work Opportunities
- Study: Your children can study in New Zealand.
- Work: Your children can work in New Zealand if they are of appropriate age.
What Are the Fees for a Dependent Child Resident Visa?
The application fee for a Dependent Child Resident Visa is NZD $3,610. This fee includes an immigration levy. Note that if Immigration New Zealand declines the application, the fee is non-refundable.
External Resources for More Information
For in-depth information about the Dependent Child Resident Visa and detailed instructions, visit the official New Zealand Immigration website for the most accurate and up-to-date guidance.
Reuniting families in New Zealand is an enriching opportunity that brings loved ones together in a safe, welcoming environment. By understanding the process, eligibility criteria, and application steps for the New Zealand Dependent Child Resident Visa, you can ensure a smoother transition for your child’s move to New Zealand. Whether applying online or through paper forms, staying informed and prepared is key to a successful application.
Still Got Questions? Read Below to Know More
“Do I need to prove my income to show financial dependency for my child?
Yes, you generally need to prove your income to show financial dependency for your child when applying for immigration benefits. Immigration authorities often require that you, as a sponsor, demonstrate you have the financial means to support your child. This proof helps officials ensure that the dependent will not require public assistance.
To prove your income, you may need to provide several documents, such as:
– Recent pay stubs
– Employment letters
– Tax returns
– Bank statements
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Affidavit of Support (Form I-864), for example, is a common document where sponsors must show they meet minimum income requirements. According to USCIS, “an Affidavit of Support is a legal contract, and the sponsor’s income must meet at least 125% of the Federal poverty guidelines for the household size.”
For more detailed information, always refer to the official website of the immigration authorities, such as USCIS for the United States.
“What happens if my child’s health doesn’t meet New Zealand’s health standards?
If your child’s health doesn’t meet New Zealand’s health standards, it can affect your visa application. New Zealand has strict health requirements to make sure that new residents and visitors won’t place an excessive burden on the country’s health services. Here’s what you need to know:
- Medical Assessment:
- The first step is usually a medical examination conducted by an approved panel physician.
- If the initial check-up raises concerns, further tests or specialist reports may be required.
- Health Waiver:
- In certain cases, you might be eligible to apply for a health waiver, which is a special permission allowing the visa process to continue despite health issues.
- According to Immigration New Zealand, “a health waiver can be considered if the applicant meets certain criteria, such as strong humanitarian reasons or if they have close family ties in New Zealand.”
- Decision Process:
- Immigration New Zealand will consider all submitted medical documents and reports before making a decision.
- If the health waiver is denied, it generally means the visa application will be declined.
For more detailed information, you can visit Immigration New Zealand’s official pages on Medical Requirements and Health Waivers.
Ensuring all medical reports and documents are thoroughly prepared and accurately presented can significantly influence the outcome of the process. Consulting with an immigration advisor might also be beneficial if your child has significant health issues.
“Can I apply for a Dependent Child Resident Visa if my child is adopted?
Yes, you can apply for a Dependent Child Resident Visa if your child is adopted. The process and requirements for a Dependent Child Resident Visa are generally the same for both biological and adopted children, but there are specific details and documentation you need to provide.
Key Requirements for Dependent Child Resident Visa:
- Relationship Evidence: You must prove the child is legally adopted.
- Provide adoption papers or court orders.
- Show the child depends on you financially.
- Sponsorship: The sponsor (usually a parent) must be:
- A New Zealand citizen or resident.
- Able to support the child in New Zealand.
- Age and Dependence: The child must be:
- Single.
- Typically 19 years or younger (ages 20-24 in certain cases if financially dependent).
Where to Find More Information:
“For detailed information on requirements, visit the official Immigration New Zealand website: Dependent Child Resident Visa requirements.”
Make sure you have all the necessary documents and meet all requirements before applying. For specific cases and further guidance, contacting Immigration New Zealand or seeking legal advice can be very helpful.
“How can I move my child’s visa to a new passport if their old one expires?
To move your child’s visa to a new passport after the old one expires, follow these steps:
- Get a New Passport: First, apply for a new passport for your child through your country’s passport issuing authority. Visit their official website for application guidelines.
Check Visa Transfer Procedures: Verify the procedure for transferring the visa on the official immigration website of the country that issued the visa. Each country may have different procedures.
Submit Required Documents: Typically, you will need:
- The old passport with the existing visa.
- The new passport.
- A completed transfer application form.
- Proof of your child’s identity and nationality.
- Any applicable fees.
Contact the embassy or consulate of the issuing country for specific requirements. Usually, you can find this information on their official website. For example, if you’re dealing with a U.S. visa, check the U.S. Department of State’s official website: U.S. Visa Transfer.
Embassies and consulates often have specific instructions on their site. According to the U.K. government: “If you get a new passport, you may need to transfer your biometric residence permit (BRP). For more details, see UK Visa and Immigration.”
By following these steps and checking the official resources, you’ll ensure the visa transfer process is smooth and uninterrupted.
“What can I do if I can’t afford the Dependent Child Resident Visa fee?
If you are unable to afford the Dependent Child Resident Visa fee, there are a few options available that might assist you. These include fee waivers, payment plans, and seeking financial assistance. Here’s what you can consider:
- Fee Waivers: Some countries offer fee waivers for visa applications if you can prove financial hardship. Check with the immigration office or website of the country you’re dealing with to see if this is an option.
“In certain cases, applicants may be eligible for a fee waiver based on their financial situation.”
(Official source: USCIS Fee Waiver) - Payment Plans: Certain countries might allow you to set up a payment plan to pay the visa fee over time. Contact the immigration office to find out if this is a possibility.
Financial Assistance: Look into non-profit organizations or local community groups that offer financial aid or loans to help cover immigration-related costs.
“Some charitable organizations and community groups provide financial assistance or loans to help families with visa and immigration costs.”
(Official resource: Catholic Charities Immigration Services).
For more detailed information, you can visit the official immigration website of the country you are applying to. For example, if you’re applying for a visa in the United States, check the USCIS. For New Zealand, see the NZ Immigration. Always ensure to consult these official resources to get accurate and updated information.
Learn Today:
Glossary of Immigration Terms
- Dependent Child Resident Visa:
A visa that allows residents and citizens of New Zealand to bring their dependent children to live, study, and work in New Zealand indefinitely. Good Character:
A requirement for visa eligibility indicating that the applicant has no significant criminal record or involvement in activities that would pose a security risk to New Zealand.Proof of Parentage:
Documentation required to establish that the applicant is the biological or adoptive parent of the dependent child, such as birth certificates or adoption papers.Financial Dependency:
The condition in which a child relies on their parent(s) for economic support, typically applicable to children under 17 or those aged 18-24 who are without children of their own.Section 49 Conditions:
Conditions that may be attached to a resident visa, specifying requirements that must be met to maintain the visa, affecting both the visa holder and their dependents.
By understanding these key terms, you’ll have a clearer grasp of the requirements and processes involved in applying for a Dependent Child Resident Visa in New Zealand.
This Article In A Nutshell:
The Dependent Child Resident Visa lets New Zealand residents or citizens bring their dependent children to live, study, and work in the country indefinitely. It fosters family unity while offering children the chance to enjoy New Zealand’s vibrant lifestyle and educational opportunities. Eligibility requires meeting health, character, and dependency criteria.
— By VisaVerge.com
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