Overview of parent visas and application numbers
Immigration New Zealand has published updated figures for parent visa pathways, showing continued demand for Parent Resident Visa places and the way the parent visa process continues to operate. Families should be aware of the current options and limits before applying.
Key points
- ✓New Zealand offers two parent visa options: the Parent Resident Visa and the Parent Boost Visitor Visa.
- ✓The Parent Resident Visa is a two-stage process that begins with an Expression of Interest and may lead to an Invitation to Apply.
- ✓The annual limit for Parent Resident Visa approvals remains 2,500 places per year.
- ✓From 1 July 2025, the annual limit applies to approvals in principle under the parent category.
- ✓The latest INZ figures show continued strong demand and ongoing selection activity under the parent category system.
Immigration New Zealand has published an updated overview of parent visa pathways and application numbers. The latest update confirms that parent visas remain an important part of New Zealand’s family migration settings, but they continue to operate under tight annual limits and strong demand.
New Zealand offers two main parent visa options. The Parent Resident Visa is a two-stage process that begins with an Expression of Interest (EOI). If the EOI is selected and meets the requirements, Immigration New Zealand may issue an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Only people who have received an ITA can make a residence application, and that application must be made within four months of the ITA being issued.
The Parent Boost Visitor Visa remains the alternative for parents who want to spend longer periods of time in New Zealand without applying for residence through the parent resident pathway.
INZ has confirmed that the annual limit for Parent Resident Visa approvals remains 2,500 places per year. From 1 July 2025, the annual limit applies to the number of approvals in principle that can be issued under the parent category, which is important for applicants to understand when planning ahead.
The latest figures also show ongoing selection activity and continued pressure on the parent category system. For families, the practical message is to prepare early, understand which pathway is suitable, and seek advice before lodging an application.
Information on this page is for general guidance only. Always refer to Immigration New Zealand for authoritative requirements.
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