How to Apply for a Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa for New Zealand

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If you're a parent or grandparent thinking about visiting your children or grandchildren in New Zealand, the process of securing a Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa might initially appear challenging. However, armed with the right advice and a clear understanding of the steps involved, the journey can be smoother than you think. This guide walks you through applying for a Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa for New Zealand, giving you the best chance of being reunited with your loved ones while staying compliant with immigration regulations. 

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What is a Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa?

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The Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa is designed to allow parents or grandparents to visit their children or grandchildren residing in New Zealand. To be eligible to apply for this visa, you must be visiting children or grandchildren who are New Zealand citizens or residents. 

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The visa is granted for 3-years and allows you to travel in and out of New Zealand multiple times. However, you can only stay up to a maximum of 6 months for each visit and your maximum total stay is 18 months in 3 years. 

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It’s important to note the following before you consider the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa pathway: 

• you have to apply for this visa outside of New Zealand
• if you want to bring dependent children with you, they will need to apply for their own visas
• If you are only planning to visit New Zealand once, or for a short period, the general visitor visa may be an easier and simpler visa to apply for. Malcolm Pacific Immigration advisers will be able to assess which visa is suitable. 

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If you want to apply for a Parents and Grandparents Visitor Visa, the child or grandchild can sponsor you as soon as they receive a residence visa. 

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The Parent Resident visa is another pathway of interest for parents of New Zealand citizens which is separate to the Parent and Grandparent visa and has different eligibility criteria. It is important to note that for parents wanting to come to New Zealand long-term through this category, they will have to wait at least 3 years after their child gets their resident visa.

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Applying for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa 

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It is important to get advice before embarking on your visitor visa journey, reach out to one of our licensed immigration advisors today for a free consultation.

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Government costs for the visa application differ depending on where you’re living, preferred method of submission and your passport nationality but can be viewed on the Immigration New Zealand website. 

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Assessment and approval of the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa 

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After submitting your application for the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa, Immigration New Zealand will initiate the processing and assessment of your application.

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It's advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel dates as processing times can differ.

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It is important to note that if you have a medical condition, your visa application will take longer to process and you should apply at least 4 months before you intend to travel to New Zealand. 

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Once your application undergoes assessment, you'll receive a decision notification. If approved, congratulations! You're one step closer to exploring New Zealand with your child or grandchild.

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Before, during and after your travels to New Zealand, strict adherence to the conditions outlined by your visa is of utmost importance. Familiarise yourself with the specific conditions tied to your visa type and ensure that your actions align with these guidelines.

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Do You Need Assistance with Your Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa Application?

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The process of applying for a Parent and Grandparent visitor visa for New Zealand demands meticulous attention to detail, from gathering the right documents to adhering to visa conditions. 

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At Malcolm Pacific Immigration, our licensed immigration advisors are committed to guiding you through the complexities of the immigration process, giving you the best chance of being reunited with your children or grandchildren in New Zealand. Reach out to us for a free consultation if you have any inquiries regarding the Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa or any other visa category. We are here to assist you every step of the way.

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