Dependent Child Visa
For dependent children of people who hold a New Zealand work or student visa, or are residents.
The Dependent Child Visa is a New Zealand family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$441 including levy (dependent child visitor)) and processing time (~4-8 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Dependent Child Visa is for
For dependent children of people who hold a New Zealand work or student visa, or are residents.
Children can be included in a parent's residence application where eligible.
Dependent Child Visa - eligibility criteria
- Be aged 19 or under and single
- Be financially dependent on the parent
- Parent holds an eligible visa or is a resident or citizen
- Meet health and character requirements (age dependent)
- Provide proof of the parent-child relationship
Dependent Child Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Dependent Child Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$441 including levy (dependent child visitor), with an indicative processing time of ~4-8 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Matches the parent's visa (student or visitor stream) |
| Work rights | No work (study or visitor conditions) |
| Study rights | Domestic-fee schooling where parent qualifies, otherwise enrolment as set |
| Government fee | ~NZ$441 including levy (dependent child visitor) |
| Processing time | ~4-8 weeks |
| Route to PR | Children can be included in a parent's residence application where eligible. |
Pathway & next steps
Children can be included in a parent's residence application where eligible.
Many applicants also compare Partner of Worker · Partner of a Worker or Student Visa, Partner Resident · Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa, Student Visa · Fee Paying Student Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Dependent Child Visa pitfalls we fix
Dependent Child Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Dependent Child Visa cost?
The Dependent Child Visa government fee is ~NZ$441 including levy (dependent child visitor). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Dependent Child Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~4-8 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Dependent Child Visa lead to permanent residence?
Children can be included in a parent's residence application where eligible.
Can I work on the Dependent Child Visa?
Work rights: No work (study or visitor conditions).
Who can apply for the Dependent Child Visa?
For dependent children of people who hold a New Zealand work or student visa, or are residents.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority