Reuniting Families in New Zealand
New Zealand values family unity. If you hold a residence visa or are on the pathway to becoming a resident, you may be able to bring your dependent children to live with you permanently. These visas focus on long-term family reunification rather than temporary stays.
01. Who Qualifies as a Dependent Child?
Immigration New Zealand defines dependent children based on age, relationship status, and financial dependency on the parent:
Under 17 Years Old
- Must be single (never married or in a partnership)
- Financially dependent on you as the parent
18 to 20 Years Old
- Must be single and have no children of their own
- Must be totally or substantially reliant on you for financial support
21 to 24 Years Old
- Must be single with no children
- Must be unable to support themselves due to a physical, mental, or intellectual disability
- Must be wholly reliant on the parent for financial support
Children over 16 must also meet English language requirements or pay for English tuition.
02. Pathways for Dependent Children
Children of Resident Visa Holders
If you hold a residence class visa, your dependent child may apply for their own residence visa. This gives them the right to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.
Key requirements:
- You must be their biological or legally adopted parent
- You must be able to support them financially
- They must meet health and character requirements
Children of Work Visa Holders
If you hold an eligible work visa, your dependent child can apply for a visitor or student visa to join you. They can:
- Stay for the duration of your work visa
- Study for up to three months on a visitor visa
- Apply for a student visa for longer study periods
Note: Not all work visa categories allow dependent children. Check your specific visa conditions.
Children Through Partnership
If your partner is a New Zealand citizen or resident, their dependent children may also qualify for visas
through the partnership pathway.
03. What Makes This Different from Student Dependents?
If you’re in New Zealand on a student visa and want your children to attend school, they need a Dependent Child Student Visa instead. That visa is specifically designed for temporary educational stays linked to a parent’s study programme.
The visas on this page focus on permanent or long-term family reunification for children of residents
and eligible workers.
04. Required Documentation
- Birth certificates proving the parent-child relationship
- Evidence of your New Zealand visa status
- Proof of financial dependency (bank statements, tax records)
- Medical and police certificates
- English language test results (for children 16+)
- Adoption papers (if applicable)
05. Processing Times
- Temporary visa applications: Several weeks
- Residence visa applications: Several months
06. Building Your Family’s Future in New Zealand
Bringing your children to New Zealand is a significant step in establishing your family’s future here. Our licensed immigration advisers understand the documentation requirements and can help you navigate the process smoothly.
Contact us to discuss your family’s situation and find the right pathway for your dependent children.
