Parent Resident Visa
For parents of New Zealand citizens or residents who sponsor them for permanent residence.
The Parent Resident Visa is a New Zealand family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$3,180 including levy) and processing time (~12-24 months (selected from a ballot or queue)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Parent Resident Visa is for
For parents of New Zealand citizens or residents who sponsor them for permanent residence.
Grants residence; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship.
Parent Resident Visa - eligibility criteria
- Have an adult child who is a NZ citizen or resident sponsor
- Sponsor meets the minimum income threshold
- Be selected from the expression of interest ballot or queue
- Meet health and character requirements
- Have no dependent children unless included
Parent Resident Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Parent Resident Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$3,180 including levy, with an indicative processing time of ~12-24 months (selected from a ballot or queue). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Permanent residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Permanent (indefinite resident visa) |
| Work rights | Work for any employer in any role |
| Study rights | Study with no restrictions |
| Government fee | ~NZ$3,180 including levy |
| Processing time | ~12-24 months (selected from a ballot or queue) |
| Route to PR | Grants residence; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
Grants residence; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship.
Many applicants also compare PGV · Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa, Parent Retirement · Parent Retirement Resident Visa, PRV · Permanent Resident 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 Parent Resident Visa pitfalls we fix
Parent Resident Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Parent Resident Visa cost?
The Parent Resident Visa government fee is ~NZ$3,180 including levy. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Parent Resident Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~12-24 months (selected from a ballot or queue). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Parent Resident Visa lead to permanent residence?
Grants residence; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship.
Can I work on the Parent Resident Visa?
Work rights: Work for any employer in any role.
Who can apply for the Parent Resident Visa?
For parents of New Zealand citizens or residents who sponsor them for permanent residence.
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