Dependent Child Resident Visa
Residence for the dependent child of a NZ citizen or resident parent.
Official New Zealand pageWho this route is for
Single, financially dependent children aged 24 or younger whose parent is a New Zealand citizen or resident living in New Zealand.
Eligibility requirements
- Have a parent who is a NZ citizen or resident living in NZ and supports the application
- Be aged 24 or younger, single, and financially dependent on the parent
- Be in good health (medical exam; chest X-ray for ages 11+) and good character (police certificates for ages 17+)
- Meet the English language requirement if aged 16 or older (with limited exceptions)
Requirements reviewed July 2026. They change frequently — confirm the current rules on the official page before relying on them.
Recent changes & caveats
The child is subject to the same residence conditions as the supporting parent; if the parent breaches their conditions, the child's visa can be affected. Grants residence to live, work and study indefinitely.
Other New Zealand routes
Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa
TemporaryOpen work visa for the partner of a NZ citizen or resident, up to 3 years.
Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa
PermanentResidence for the partner of a NZ citizen or resident, with a 2-year pathway to permanent residence.
Parent Resident Visa
PermanentSponsorship-based residence for parents of adult New Zealanders, allocated by queue and ballot.
Parent Retirement Resident Visa
PermanentInvestment-based residence for parents of adult New Zealanders with NZD $1 million to invest.