26/08/2026
Immigration New Zealand has confirmed a new hybrid selection model for Parent Resident Visa EOIs, taking effect ๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐๐.
Under the new model, around 90% of EOIs will be selected in the order they were received, with the remaining 10% still selected by ballot. This is a real shift from the current system, where all EOIs in the pool are selected purely at random, giving applicants who have been waiting longer a clearer pathway forward.
๐๐ก๐ฒ ๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ฆ๐๐ญ๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ฌ
We support this more balanced approach. For many migrant families, parents and grandparents are central to daily life, providing care, support and stability while families work and build their lives here. Recognising that role is also a recognition of how strong family units help New Zealand's communities and workforce thrive.
This change is particularly significant because the recently introduced Parent Boost Visitor Visa has not been a realistic option for many families. Its high application fee, demanding income or funds thresholds, and substantial ongoing health insurance costs have placed it beyond the financial reach of many migrants. A fairer Parent Resident Visa selection system therefore remains essential for families seeking a genuine and permanent pathway to reunification.
๐๐๐ฒ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ฌ
โข ๐๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐๐๐ โ selection under the previous settings
โข ๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐จ๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐๐ โ the new hybrid model takes effect
โข ๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ฏ๐๐ฆ๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐๐ โ first selection under the new model
๐๐จ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ ๐ง๐๐๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ญ๐๐ค๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง?
If you already have an EOI in the pool and it is not due to expire before 5 October 2026, you do not need to take any action. Your EOI will transition automatically to the new system.
If your EOI is due to expire before 5 October 2026, you will need to submit a new EOI to retain your place in the process.
The annual cap remains at 2,500 visas each financial year. From 5 October 2026, EOIs will also no longer expire after two years, although applicants will need to confirm every two years that they wish to remain in the pool. There is no fee for this confirmation.
Applicants and sponsors must still meet all existing Parent Resident Visa requirements.
Further details are available on the Immigration New Zealand website, linked in the comments section below.
If you are unsure how these changes may affect an existing or proposed EOI, consider seeking immigration advice.
Ngฤ mihi nui.
