Dependent child resident visa

Dependent Child Residence Visa (New Zealand) – Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re a New Zealand citizen or resident and want your child to live with you in New Zealand permanently, the Dependent Child Resident Visa is the right pathway. This visa allows your child to join you, grow up in New Zealand, attend school, and become part of the local community.

Below is a complete guide to help you understand who is eligible and how to apply.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

To qualify under the Dependent Child Residence Category, the child must meet the following conditions:

For Children Aged 24 or Under:

  • Must be single (not married or in a de facto relationship)
  • Must be dependent on the parent for financial support
  • Must not have any children of their own
  • Must be of good character and health

Additional Requirements:

  • The sponsoring parent must be a New Zealand citizen or resident visa holder
  • The sponsoring parent must have the right to sponsor under immigration rules (i.e. they have not breached sponsorship rules in the past)
  • If parents are separated or divorced, the parent in New Zealand must show they have legal custody or consent from the other parent to bring the child to New Zealand
  • If the child is adopted, the adoption must be legal and meet New Zealand’s immigration requirements

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Ensure your child meets all the eligibility conditions mentioned above. If unsure, contact JD Immigration for a free eligibility check.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

You will need:

  • Child’s passport and birth certificate
  • Evidence of your New Zealand citizenship or residence
  • Proof of relationship (e.g. birth certificate or adoption papers)
  • Custody or consent documents (if applicable)
  • Medical and character certificates (if required)

Step 3: Complete the Application

Submit the Resident Visa Application for Your Dependent Child to Immigration New Zealand. This can be done online or via a paper application.
Make sure all documents are complete — incomplete applications cause delays.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Fees vary depending on where the application is lodged. Confirm the current fee on the official Immigration NZ website or ask us.

Step 5: Immigration Processing

Immigration New Zealand will assess:

  • Your sponsorship eligibility
  • The child’s relationship to you
  • Whether the child meets all character, health, and dependency requirements
    Processing times can vary — apply early to avoid delays.

Step 6: Receive the Decision

If the visa is approved, your child will be granted residence. This allows them to:

  • Live, study, and access healthcare in New Zealand
  • Work (if aged 16 or older, with conditions)
  • Begin their path to New Zealand citizenship
    If declined, we can help explore appeal options or alternate visa pathways.

Important Things to Know

  • Children aged 21 to 24 must show they are still financially dependent (e.g. still in full-time study or not working)
  • If your child is under 16, custody agreements or parental consent is usually required if both parents are not in New Zealand
  • If your child is in New Zealand on another visa (e.g. visitor visa), apply early before the visa expires

Need Help With the Process?

JD Immigration specialises in family migration to New Zealand. If you're unsure about your child's eligibility, or you want help preparing a complete and successful application, get in touch.

We will:

  • Verify your eligibility
  • Prepare all required documents
  • Submit the application and liaise with Immigration NZ
  • Keep you updated at every stage

Contact Us Today

Let’s bring your family together.
Book a free consultation with JD Immigration and take the first step toward securing your child’s future in New Zealand.