New Zealand changes parent visa rules from October 2026: 90% by queue, 10% via ballot system

New Zealand will introduce a hybrid selection system for its Parent Resident Visa Category from 5 October 2026, with about 90% of expressions of interest (EOIs) selected in date order and the remaining 10% through a ballot, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announced.

Even though the annual cap of 2,500 Parent Resident Visas will remain unchanged, the new hybrid model is aimed at making the selection process more fair, predictable and to provide opportunity to newer applicants as well.

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Under the current rules, the next Parent Resident Visa selection draw will be held on 11th August 2026 and the first selection in the new model will be on 10 November 2026.

What changes for existing EOI holders

Existing EOIs will automatically transition to the new system on 5 October, and won't require a new EOI, INZ said.

Usually, applicants in the pool for a long period of time will get the slot on the basis of the date of their first EOI. This will also be the case for those who have submitted an EOI replacement within 90 days of a previous expiring EOI.

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These changes will not impact on the form or content of EOIs, but rather on their selection for an invitation to apply (ITA). Current eligibility criteria for applicants/sponsors will not be altered.

EOIs will no longer expire

In the present system, an EOI is deemed to expire after 2 years if it has not been selected.

Under the new model, EOIs will not have an expiration date as long as they affirm their continued interest in the pool every 2 years and provide updated information. This will not incur any extra fee, INZ said.

The Parent Resident Visa allows New Zealand citizens and residents to sponsor their parents for residence in the country. The process has two stages: applicants first submit an EOI and, if selected and found to meet the requirements, receive an ITA. Only those who receive an ITA can submit a residence application.

INZ said demand for the visa is expected to remain above the available places. As a result, some applicants may still have to wait before their EOIs are selected.

The immigration authority said it will provide current and historical EOI holders with further details on the transition before the new system begins. Information on queue positions will be available to current EOI holders after 5 October.