Immigration New Zealand is making small but significant changes to the Parent Resident Visa category, which will take effect from 1 July 2025. This visa pathway allows New Zealand citizens and residents to sponsor their parents to live in New Zealand permanently, supporting family reunification and strengthening community connections. These updates are designed to improve how the Parent Resident Visa operates and to provide greater clarity and certainty for applicants and their families. What’s Changing from 1 July 2025? Removal of the 2,000-Visa Queue ReferenceImmigration New Zealand is removing the reference to 2,000 visas being reserved for those in the queue, as the queue has almost been cleared. This change opens up more spaces for applicants in the Parent Category ballot pool, giving them a better chance of being selected. End of Temporary Cap Increase ReferenceThe reference to the temporary increase in the visa cap for the 2024/25 financial year is also being removed. Although not all applications under this increase have been processed, those that have received approval in principle will still count toward the 2024/25 cap. Visa Cap ResetThe visa cap will reset on 1 July 2025, marking the beginning of the 2025/26 financial year. This reset will help ensure a fresh allocation of visa places for new applicants. These changes aim to simplify the Parent Resident Visa process and make it easier for families to plan their reunification in New Zealand with more confidence and less uncertainty. Upcoming Parent Category Ballot The next Parent Category ballot draw is scheduled for Tuesday, 12 August 2025. To be considered, applicants must submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) by 31 July 2025. If you’re thinking about bringing your parents to New Zealand, now is a great time to prepare. Stay up to date and get expert immigration advice to make the most of these changes and get in touch with our team today if you are interested in applying for this visa. Read the original article here.
