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New Zealand is one of the most beautiful and welcoming countries in the world. Many people move here for better career opportunities, a peaceful lifestyle, or to build a brighter future for their families. However, for many migrants, living away from their parents can be difficult. Thankfully, New Zealand offers a solution: Parent Category Resident Visas. These visas allow parents to live in New Zealand permanently, provided they have an adult child who is a resident or citizen.

In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about Parent Category Resident Visas, including eligibility criteria, the application process, financial requirements, and alternatives. Our goal is to provide a clear and simple explanation so that you will completely understand this visa type by the end of this article.

What is the Parent Category Resident Visa?

The Parent Category Resident Visa is a type of visa that allows parents of New Zealand citizens or residents to move to New Zealand permanently. This visa is part of the broader category of parent residence visas and is sometimes referred to as the INZ Parent Resident Visa, where “INZ” stands for Immigration New Zealand.

However, this visa is not open to everyone. The New Zealand places limits on the number of people who can apply, and there are strict financial requirements that the sponsoring child must meet. Let’s take a closer look at the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility Criteria for Parent Category Resident Visas

To qualify for the Parent Category Resident Visa, you must meet several important conditions:

1. Sponsorship: You must have an adult child who is a New Zealand citizen or resident. Your child must have lived in New Zealand for at least three years and must agree to sponsor you. If your child is applying jointly with their partner, they must have been living together for at least 12 months.
2. Financial Requirements: The sponsoring child must meet a certain income threshold to support their parent(s). The income requirement is:
   • If one person is supporting one parent, their income must be at least 1.5 times the median wage.
   • For two parents, the income must be at least twice the median wage.
   • If two people (such as a couple) are sponsoring the same parent, their combined income must be at least two times the median wage.
3. Health and Character Requirements: Parents must be in good health and provide medical certificates. They must also pass a police clearance check to prove they have no criminal history.
4. English Language Requirement: Parents must meet a basic level of English proficiency. If they do not, they may need to pre-purchase English language courses in New Zealand.
5. No Dependent Children: Parents applying for this visa must not have dependent children.

If you meet these conditions, you can proceed with your application.

Application Process for Parent Category Resident Visas

The application process for the Parent Category Resident Visa involves several steps:

1. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).

Before applying for the visa, you need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to Immigration New Zealand. The EOI is a form where you provide details about yourself and your sponsoring child, including proof of income and residency.

2. Selection from the Pool

Immigration New Zealand selects EOIs from the pool based on the number of available spots. If your EOI is selected, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for residency.

3. Submit the Residence Application.

Once you receive an ITA, you must submit a complete application within four months. This includes providing all required documents, such as medical certificates, police clearances, and financial proof from your sponsor.

4. Application Processing and Decision

Immigration New Zealand will assess your application and make a decision. If your application is approved, you will be granted a Parent Category Resident Visa, allowing you to live in New Zealand permanently.

Important Considerations

• Limited Spots Available: The Parent Category Resident Visa is subject to a quota system, meaning there are only a certain number of spots available each year.
• Processing Time: The processing time can take months or even years, depending on the number of applications received.
• Financial Commitment: Your sponsor must support you for at least ten years, which includes financial assistance and accommodation.

Alternatives to the Parent Category Resident Visa

If you do not qualify for the Parent Category Resident Visa, there are other options available:

1. Parent Retirement Resident Visa—If you can invest a significant amount of money in New Zealand, you may qualify for this visa.
2. Temporary Retirement Visitor Visa—If you are over 66 years old and meet investment requirements, you can stay in New Zealand for two years.
3. General Visitor Visa—This visa allows parents to visit New Zealand temporarily but does not lead to residency.

Understanding the NZeTA

Before traveling to New Zealand, parents must be aware of the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). The NZeTA is a required travel document for visitors from visa-waiver countries. It is valid for two years and allows multiple entries into New Zealand.

How to Apply for the NZeTA

• Online Application: You can apply for the NZeTA Visa online through Immigration New Zealand’s official website.

Checking Your NZeTA Status

After applying, you should check the NZeTA Visa Status regularly to ensure your application is approved before you travel.

Conclusion

The Parent Category Resident Visa is a fantastic opportunity for parents to reunite with their children in New Zealand and build a new life together. However, the process is complex and requires careful planning. From meeting financial and health requirements to understanding the application process, it is important to be well-informed before applying.

If you are considering applying for the Parent Category Resident Visa, make sure your sponsor meets all the financial requirements and that you have all the necessary documents ready. If this visa does not work for you, there are other options, such as the Parent Retirement Visa or a General Visitor Visa.

Lastly, if you are planning to visit New Zealand before applying for residency, ensure you have your NZeTA visa approved. You can easily submit NZeTA online and check your NZeTA visa status to avoid any last-minute issues.

We hope this guide has answered all your questions about Parent Category Resident Visas. If you have further doubts, you can always consult an immigration expert to help guide you through the process. Safe travels and best wishes on your journey to New Zealand!