Key Takeaways:
- The New Zealand Parent Resident Visa allows parents of NZ citizens/residents to live in New Zealand permanently.
- Eligibility includes biological parents, grandparents, or legal guardians of a resident/citizen, meeting specific health, character, and financial criteria.
- Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest form, and required documents, and pay fees; if selected, proceed with a residence application.
What is the New Zealand Parent Resident Visa?
The New Zealand Parent Resident Visa allows parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to live in New Zealand permanently. It helps parents join their adult children who are already settled in New Zealand. To qualify, parents need to meet several criteria, including having a child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident and meeting health and character requirements. Applicants must also demonstrate their relationship with their child and meet specific financial requirements.
Who Can Apply for a New Zealand Parent Resident Visa?
Parents, grandparents, and legal guardians of children living in New Zealand are eligible to apply for the Parent Resident Visa. Specifically:
- Parents: Biological parents or legal guardians of the sponsoring adult child.
- Grandparents: In cases where both parents of the child are deceased, a grandparent and their partner can apply.
- Legal Guardians: If both parents of the adult child died before the child turned 18, and the legal guardian had custody and the right to control the upbringing before the child turned 18.
Who Can Sponsor Me for a New Zealand Parent Resident Visa?
To apply, you need a sponsor. Your sponsor must be your adult child who is an NZ resident or citizen. The sponsor can be:
- Your adult child
- Your adult child’s partner (if they have lived together for at least one year)
- Another adult child of the parent included in the application
What Are the Sponsor Requirements for a New Zealand Parent Resident Visa?
Your sponsoring adult child must fulfill several requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have been a New Zealand resident or citizen for at least three years before applying
- Must be a regular resident in New Zealand with at least 184 days of presence in each of the three years prior
- Ensure your maintenance for the first ten years of your residence in New Zealand, including accommodation, health expenses, and potential deportation or repatriation costs
- Provide tax statements from Inland Revenue as evidence of income
What Documents are Required for a New Zealand Parent Resident Visa Application?
You’ll need various documents to successfully apply, including:
- Expression of Interest (EOI) Form:
- Complete truthfully with details about your character, family relationships, health, financial state, sponsorship, and English-speaking ability.
- Residence Application:
- Fill out correctly if EOI is selected.
- Evidence of Identity:
- Two head-and-shoulder photos (New Zealand Photo Requirements)
- Passport or certified copy of identity certificate
- Full birth certificate
- Evidence of Health:
- Chest x-ray and medical exam for stays over one year
- Police Certificate:
- Must be no older than six months from home country or countries lived in for over a year
- Proof of English Proficiency:
- Acceptable English language test results, proof of English-speaking background, or other documents
- Relationship Evidence with Partner:
- Marriage or civil union certificates, children’s birth certificates, joint rental agreements, joint bank accounts, etc.
- Sponsorship Form:
- Completed by your adult child
- Child’s Immigration Status:
- New Zealand passport, birth certificate, residency visa, or certificate of citizenship
- Proof of Residence in New Zealand:
- Letters, bills, employment records, tax records, rental agreements, etc.
- Proof of Relationship with Your Child:
- Birth certificate, adoption papers, or legal documents for grandparents/legal guardians
How to Apply for a New Zealand Parent Resident Visa?
The application involves two main steps: submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) and, if selected, submitting a residence application.
How to Submit an Expression of Interest?
- Complete the EOI Form:
- Complete the Parent Category Expression of Interest form in English with accurate information.
- Pay the EOI Fee:
- NZD $550 using Visa, MasterCard, or debit card.
- Submit the EOI:
- Send the form and fee to the postal address listed on the official Immigration New Zealand website.
If selected, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for the Parent Resident Visa and have four months to apply.
How to Apply for the Parent Resident Visa?
- Complete the Residence Application:
- Fill out the Parent Category Residence Application form with accurate information.
- Complete Sponsor’s Form:
- Sponsor completes the Sponsorship Form for Residence.
- Pay Visa Application Fee:
- NZD $3,610 using Visa, MasterCard, or debit card.
- Submit Required Documents:
- Submit all forms, documents, application fees, and levies to the postal address on the official website.
- Wait for Processing:
- Once processed, a decision will be communicated. If approved in principle, your passport might be required.
What Fees Are Associated with the New Zealand Parent Resident Visa?
Applicants must pay an EOI fee and a Parent Resident Visa fee:
- Expression of Interest: NZD $550
- Parent Resident Visa: NZD $3,610
What is the Processing Time for a Parent Resident Visa?
For EOIs submitted before 12 October 2022, processing began on 14 November 2022. For those submitted after, the selection started in August 2023. Immigration New Zealand provides time frames as they become available.
What is the Selection Process for the Parent Resident Visa?
EOIs are categorized into two pools:
- Queued Pool: EOIs accepted before 11 October 2022 (selected in the order received)
- Ballot Pool: EOIs accepted after 12 October 2022 (selected randomly)
What Conditions Must Be Met After Your Parent Resident Visa is Approved?
Once approved, you must:
- Apply for entry permission at the New Zealand border with the arrival card.
- Use the visa in a valid passport.
- Ensure financial maintenance from your sponsor.
- You can enter and leave New Zealand freely for ten years, work in any job, and pursue education.
How Long Can You Stay with a Parent Resident Visa?
The visa allows you to stay indefinitely, with the option to enter and leave New Zealand as often as you want for ten years.
Can You Work or Study on a Parent Resident Visa?
Yes, you can both work for any employer and pursue education in New Zealand.
Can You Bring Your Family on a Parent Resident Visa?
You can bring your partner (spouse, civil union partner, or de facto partner) but cannot bring dependent children under this visa.
How Many Parent Resident Visas Are Granted Annually?
Each year, 2500 New Zealand Parent Resident Visas are granted. If they have already been issued when you apply, you may not receive one in that cycle.
Useful External Links
For more detailed and authoritative information, visit the New Zealand Immigration Official Website which provides comprehensive guidance on obtaining the Parent Resident Visa and other immigration matters.
In conclusion, the New Zealand Parent Resident Visa provides an opportunity for parents to join their adult children living in New Zealand. By understanding the requirements and following the application steps carefully, eligible parents can successfully navigate their way to permanent residency in this beautiful country.
Still, Got Questions? Read Below to Know More
Can I work while my Parent Resident Visa application is being processed in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, whether you can work while your Parent Resident Visa application is being processed depends on your current visa status. If you are holding a visa that already allows you to work, such as a work visa or a student visa with work rights, you can continue to work under the conditions of that visa. However, the Parent Resident Visa itself does not grant work rights while the application is being processed.
It is important to note that if you are in New Zealand on a visitor visa while your Parent Resident Visa is being processed, you are not permitted to work. Visitor visas do not include work rights. For more details, the official guidance from Immigration New Zealand states:
“You cannot work in New Zealand on a visitor visa.”
To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to Immigration New Zealand’s official website:
– Parent Resident Visa Information
– Work Rights on Different Visas
These resources will help you understand the specific conditions tied to your current visa and inform you about possible options for working while your Parent Resident Visa is under consideration.
Is there a way to expedite the processing of a New Zealand Parent Resident Visa?
Expediting the processing of a New Zealand Parent Resident Visa can be challenging, as Immigration New Zealand (INZ) processes applications on a first-come, first-served basis. Generally, there is no official process to fast-track these visa applications. However, being well-prepared and accurate with your application can help avoid delays.
Things to Consider:
1. Complete Documentation: Ensure that you submit all required documents and information accurately. Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay processing times.
2. Evidence of Relationship: “Make sure to provide clear evidence of your relationship to the sponsoring child.”
3. Health and Character Checks: “Ensure that you have completed all health and character checks promptly.”
You can find more information on the Immigration New Zealand website and specific guidelines for the Parent Resident Visa here. For updates and current processing times, it’s useful to regularly check INZ’s visa processing times page.
Being proactive in responding to any additional information requested by INZ can also help in avoiding unnecessary delays. Always keep your contact details up-to-date to ensure that any correspondence from immigration authorities reaches you in a timely manner.
What alternatives are there if I don’t meet the financial requirements for the New Zealand Parent Resident Visa?
If you don’t meet the financial requirements for the New Zealand Parent Resident Visa, there are other options you can consider. One alternative is the Parent Retirement Visitor Visa, which allows parents to stay in New Zealand for up to 2 years. This visa has different financial requirements than the Parent Resident Visa. You need to invest a certain amount in New Zealand and demonstrate an annual income. For more details on this visa, you can visit the official New Zealand immigration website here.
Another option is the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa. This visa lets parents and grandparents of New Zealand citizens or residents visit for up to 6 months at a time, with multiple entries allowed over a 3-year period. Though it doesn’t provide a pathway to residency, it is a viable option for extended visits. You can learn more about this visa on the official page here.
Lastly, if your goal is to migrate permanently, consider the Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa. This is available to people aged 66 years or older who have substantial wealth. You need to invest NZ$750,000 in New Zealand, have NZ$500,000 to live on, and an annual income of NZ$60,000. This visa is valid for up to 2 years and can be renewed. For detailed information, visit the official immigration link here.
What are some common issues or mistakes people make when applying for the New Zealand Parent Resident Visa?
When applying for the New Zealand Parent Resident Visa, some common issues and mistakes can negatively impact the application process. Firstly, many applicants do not meet the sponsorship requirements. It’s essential that the adult child who is sponsoring their parent meets specific earnings benchmarks and is willing to support them financially for at least ten years. According to Immigration New Zealand, “Your children must earn above a certain income threshold and agree to support you financially for the first 10 years” (source). Missing these criteria can lead to immediate rejection.
Another common issue is providing incomplete or inaccurate information. Applicants often make errors in their forms or leave out critical documents. It’s crucial to double-check all the required paperwork and ensure it is complete and accurate. For example, providing incorrect personal details, missing financial proof, or outdated documents can all cause delays or denials. Immigration New Zealand advises to “provide complete and accurate information to avoid unnecessary delays” (source).
Lastly, not being prepared for the health and character requirements can be a significant obstacle. New Zealand has strict health and character requirements, which include passing medical examinations and police clearances. “You will need to provide a chest X-ray and Medical Certificate” and “a Police Certificate from your home country” as stated by Immigration New Zealand (source). Not meeting these requirements can result in the visa application being declined. Ensure all documents and assessments are up-to-date and valid to avoid complications.
What happens if my sponsor in New Zealand loses their job?
If your sponsor in New Zealand loses their job, it can affect your visa situation depending on the type of visa you hold. Firstly, it’s important to check the exact conditions attached to your visa and if it directly connects to your sponsor’s employment status. Here are some general guidelines:
- Work Visa: If you are on a work visa tied to a specific employer, and your sponsor loses their job, you may need to find a new job and apply for a variation of conditions or a new visa. According to Immigration New Zealand (INZ), “If your circumstances change, including if you lose your job, you must tell us within 7 days.” You can find more information on the INZ website: Changing your visa.
Dependent Visa: If you are on a partner or dependent visa and your sponsor loses their job, it is crucial to know if the principal visa holder’s employment status affects your visa. For dependent visas, if the principal visa holder must maintain employment as a condition of their visa, their loss of job can impact your status too. Detailed guidelines can be found here: Dependent Visa Conditions.
Resident Visa: If you are a resident or in the process of applying for residency, the impact might be less direct, but you may still need to provide updates to INZ about any changes in employment. This could particularly affect the financial stability proof or other residency conditions.
For precise information, it’s always best to consult the INZ website or reach out directly to an immigration advisor. You can also review specific cases and read detailed guidelines here: Immigration Advisers Authority.
Question: What are the main requirements for obtaining a United States work visa?
To obtain a United States work visa, several key requirements must be met, depending on the type of work visa you are applying for. The most common work visas include the H-1B for skilled workers, L-1 for intra-company transferees, and O-1 for individuals with extraordinary abilities. Here are the general requirements:
- Job Offer from a U.S. Employer: Each category typically requires a job offer from a U.S. employer. For example, the H-1B visa requires that “the employer files a petition on behalf of the foreign worker.”
Qualifications and Education: Ensure you meet the required educational background and professional qualifications. For instance, “an H-1B applicant must hold at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in the specialty field.”
Labor Condition Application (LCA): The employer needs to file an approved LCA with the Department of Labor for certain visas, like the H-1B. This step ensures fair wages and working conditions.
Proof of Extraordinary Ability or Intracompany Transfer: For O-1 or L-1 visas, additional proof of extraordinary ability or details of employment with the company abroad may be required.
Application and Fees: Submit forms like Form I-129, pay application fees, and attend biometric services appointments as required.
For further detailed information on each visa type and specific procedural steps, you can visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) official website.
In summary, while each visa type has specific requirements, they generally necessitate a job offer from a U.S. employer, relevant qualifications, and compliance with application procedures and fees. Always refer to official resources like the USCIS for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Learn Today:
Glossary of Immigration Terms
- Parent Resident Visa:
A type of visa that allows parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to live permanently in New Zealand, provided they meet specific health, character, and financial requirements. Sponsor:
An individual, typically an adult child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident, who supports the visa application and ensures financial maintenance and other responsibilities for the applicant.Expression of Interest (EOI):
A preliminary application form that prospective immigrants submit to indicate their interest in applying for a visa, containing personal and eligibility information.Residence Application:
A detailed application form completed by an individual invited to apply for a visa after their EOI is selected, requiring comprehensive personal, health, financial, and character documentation.Ballot Pool:
A selection mechanism where EOIs submitted after a specified date are chosen randomly for further processing, as opposed to a queued system based on the order of submission.
This Article In A Nutshell:
New Zealand’s Parent Resident Visa allows parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to live there permanently. Applicants must meet health, character, and financial criteria, and demonstrate their relationship with their sponsoring child, who must be an adult citizen or resident of New Zealand for at least three years.
— By VisaVerge.com
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