The Parent Resident Visa category will change on 1 July 2025, with the aim of simplifying the process and increasing the number of places available to families applying through the ballot.
Removal of the queue allocation
- The reference to a set‑aside of 2,000 visas for a “queue” is being removed.
- Immigration New Zealand says the queue is almost cleared, so those 2,000 places can now be added to the general ballot pool, improving the odds for applicants.
Temporary cap increase no longer referenced
- The temporary increase that applied in the 2024/25 financial year was only for applications already approved in principle.
- Those approved applications will continue to count against the previous year’s cap, but the increase will not apply to new applications.
Cap reset for 2025/26
- The overall annual cap for the Parent Resident Visa will reset on 1 July 2025 for the 2025/26 financial year.
- This reset, together with the removal of the queue allocation, is intended to give clearer certainty about the number of visas available each year.
Effect on the Parent Category ballot
- With the queue allocation removed, more places are now allocated to the ballot pool.
- Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI); if selected, they can proceed with the visa application.
- The next ballot draw is scheduled for Tuesday, 12 August 2025.
- To be eligible for that draw, EOIs must be submitted by 31 July 2025.
Practical considerations for families
- Review the EOI requirements early to ensure eligibility.
- Understand that the ballot is now the primary pathway, as the legacy queue is being phased out.
- Monitor Immigration New Zealand announcements for any further adjustments to dates or caps.
Source article: www.newzealandshores.com
