Family Category

Introduction

New Zealand recognises the importance of reuniting families.

Scenic coast with many waves, hills and trees in foreground

“New Zealand has a long tradition of supporting the reunification of New Zealanders with their family members from abroad. On the one hand, this tradition has enriched the lives of the families and assisted them in achieving self reliance. On the other hand, it has enriched New Zealand society by ensuring social integration and the building of stronger communities. Family reunification enriches the lives of those involved and strengthens New Zealand’s communities.”

Objective

The objective of the Family Category policy is to allow individuals to maintain and be part of a family unit, while reinforcing the Government’s overall objectives in immigration policy.

How to qualify

Looking at the situation from the perspective of the overseas individual who is trying to qualify for permanent residence in New Zealand under the Family Category, the requirement that the overseas applicant must comply with to be successful are as follows.

  1. The applicant is the parent, grandparent, adult child or adult sibling of a New Zealand citizen or a permanent resident.
  2. The New Zealand citizen or permanent resident’s relative has filed an application to sponsor the applicant and whose sponsor’s registration is drawn from the pool of people who have registered as sponsors under the Family Quota category.
  3. The overseas applicant can show that he or she is not eligible for residence in New Zealand under any other category of Government policy.
  4. The overseas applicant meets health and character requirements.
  5. The overseas applicant has to prove that his/her New Zealand citizen or permanent resident relative is in New Zealand, and is either a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident which is not subject to any requirements under Section 18a of the Immigration Act 1987.
  6. The relative has been a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident for at least the 3 year period immediately, prior to the date of application.
  7. Spouse/partner includes married, de-facto and same sex relationships. De-facto and same sex relationships must be of at least 18 month duration. The evidence requirement varies, depending on the relationship.