New Zealand family reunification visa guide

What Is a Family Reunification Visa?

A family reunification visa lets you live in New Zealand with relatives who already live there. New Zealand recognizes different types of family relationships—spouses, partners, dependent children, parents, and adult children. Each relationship type has its own visa category with specific rules and requirements. These visas help families stay together while following immigration laws.

Types of Family Visas Available

New Zealand offers several family visa options:

• Spouse or Partner Visa – For married couples or de facto partners (people living together like a married couple)
• Dependent Child Visa – For children under a certain age whose parents sponsor them
• Parent Visa – For adult children to sponsor their parents to move to New Zealand
• Adult Child Visa – For parents to sponsor adult children in some situations
• Sibling or Adult Dependent Visa – In limited circumstances when other family options don't apply

Each visa type has different income requirements, processing times, and conditions.

Basic Requirements You'll Need

Most family visa applications require:

• A family member already living in New Zealand who will sponsor you
• Proof of your relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, or partnership documents)
• Health checks and police clearance certificates
• Proof that your sponsor can financially support you
• Completed application forms and supporting documents
• Visa application fees (check the official website for current costs)

Your sponsor must prove they have enough income or savings to support you without you needing government benefits.

How to Apply

The application process generally works like this:

1. Check if you qualify for the visa category you want

2. Gather all required documents and evidence

3. Complete the official application form

4. Pay the application fee

5. Submit your application online or by mail

6. Wait for processing (times vary by visa type)

7. Attend an interview if requested

8. Receive a decision

Processing times depend on visa type, how complete your application is, and how busy the immigration office is.

Important Things to Know

• Your sponsor must be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
• Some visas have age limits or income thresholds
• Health and character requirements apply to all applicants
• Bringing dependent children may have special conditions
• You'll need to show genuine relationship proof, not just paperwork

Next Steps

Visit the official New Zealand Immigration website to:

• Find your specific visa category
• Download the correct application forms
• Learn current fees and processing times
• Upload documents if applying online
• Check eligibility criteria for your situation

Start by identifying which family relationship applies to you, then gather documents before applying.

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.