Status: Upcoming — effective 5 October 2026
Immigration New Zealand is replacing the previous ballot system for Parent Resident Visas with a hybrid selection model starting 5 October 2026. The new framework selects 90 percent of Expressions of Interest in chronological date order and 10 percent by ballot, while keeping the annual cap at 2,500 visas [1].
What this means in practice
Under the updated policy, existing Expressions of Interest will transition automatically into the new system when it launches in October. The previous two-year expiration rule is removed for active records, provided applicants complete their scheduled two-year confirmations without extra fees. However, applications with EOIs expiring before 5 October 2026 must be resubmitted manually, as automatic transition does not apply to lapsed submissions. The final ballot under the prior 100 percent ballot structure took place on 11 August 2026, and the first selection under the new hybrid model is scheduled for 10 November 2026.
Who should check this
This update applies to New Zealand citizens and permanent residents sponsoring their parents, as well as all current and prospective holders of Parent Resident Visa Expressions of Interest.
Practical checklist
- Verify the expiration date of your current Expression of Interest relative to 5 October 2026.
- Resubmit any EOI expiring before 5 October 2026 to maintain active status.
- Keep sponsor contact and eligibility information updated in your Immigration Online profile.
- Await selection outcomes following the initial draw on 10 November 2026.
Important limits or current position
The annual visa allocation remains capped at 2,500 places. Financial sponsorship thresholds, health criteria, and character prerequisites remain unchanged.
Not sure whether this update affects your plan? Start your NZ visa assessment
This article is general information, not individual immigration advice.
Source note: Based on an official Immigration New Zealand announcement published 8 August 2026 [1]. Article status: Upcoming.
[1] Immigration New Zealand. (2026, August 8). Changes to the Parent Resident Visa Category. Open source on immigration.govt.nz ↗