Parent Residence Category – a welcome announcement
The Government has announced changes to the method used to select an Expression of Interest (EOI) under the Parent Resident Visa Category.
What is the announced change?
Under the new hybrid model, 90% of EOIs will be selected in date order, based on when they were submitted into the Pool. The remaining 10% will be selected through a ballot. The number of EOIs selected will also be based on the annual cap of 2,500 Parent Residence visas able to be issued each financial year.
When does this change come into effect?
5 October 2026.
What is the date of the first selection under the new hybrid model?
It is scheduled for 10 November 2026.
What if someone already has an EOI in the pool?
Current EOI holders will automatically transition into the new hybrid system on 5 October 2026. They will not need to submit a new one.
People who have continually maintained an EOI in the pool, including those who have submitted a replacement EOI within 90 days of a previous one expiring, will generally maintain their place in the queue based on the dated their original EOI was lodged.
What other changes have been announced?
Under the new model, EOIs will no longer expire. However, this is subject to applicants confirming every 2 years that they wish to remain in the pool and keep their information current.
How will I know where I am in the queue?
Immigration New Zealand will be providing current Expression of Interest holders information as to where they are in the queue after the hybrid model takes effect on 5 October 2026
What does this mean in reality?
Whilst the move to selecting EOIs in date order is a move to a fairer system, it does mean that applicants submitting their EOIs will likely wait for years before being selected, unless they are fortunate enough to be selected under the ballot system.
Conclusion
The Duncan Cotterill team will continue to follow future announcements as they are released. In the meantime, if you or a family member wish to have an eligibility assessment undertaken, please contact a member of Duncan Cotterill’s immigration team.
Special thanks to Partner Nicola Tiffen and Special Counsel Nicky Robertson for preparing this article.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is general in nature and not intended as a substitute for specific professional advice on any matter and should not be relied upon for that purpose.
