Parent Retirement Category vs. Parent Category: Which One is Right for Your Family?

As more migrants settle in New Zealand, many want to bring their parents to live with them. Currently, there are two main visa pathways for parents to obtain residency in New Zealand:

1. Parent Retirement Category

2. Parent Category (Parent Resident Visa)

But what are the differences? Read on to find out which option best suits your family's needs.

Requirements for the Parent Retirement Category

To apply for residency under the Parent Retirement Category, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Investment Requirement: Invest NZD 1 million in an investment approved by Immigration New Zealand and provide evidence of the legal source of funds.

2. Income Requirement: Demonstrate an annual income of at least NZD 60,000.

3. Settlement Funds: Have an additional NZD 500,000 in settlement funds (this does not need to be transferred or converted into cash).

4. Health and Character: Meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements.

Key Advantages of the Parent Retirement Category

Compared to the Parent Category, the Parent Retirement Category has several advantages:

1. No residency duration requirement for children

   • In the Parent Category, the sponsoring child must have held New Zealand residence and lived in the country for at least 3 years before they can sponsor their parents.

   • Under the Parent Retirement Category, there is no such requirement, making it a faster option for eligible parents.

2. No EOI (Expression of Interest) or queue

   • The Parent Category operates on an EOI system, meaning applicants must submit an EOI and wait for an invitation before applying. There is also an annual cap on the number of visas granted.

   • The Parent Retirement Category has no quota and no EOI, allowing eligible applicants to submit their residency application at any time.

3. No minimum stay requirement ("Immigration Lock-In")

   • Successful applicants under the Parent Category must meet certain residency requirements to maintain their status.

   • The Parent Retirement Category has no residency requirement, meaning parents are not required to live in New Zealand long-term after obtaining residency.

4. No language requirement

   • The Parent Category may require some applicants to complete English language courses.

   • The Parent Retirement Category has no language requirement, making the process easier for parents who are not fluent in English.

5. No long-term financial obligations for children

   • Under the Parent Category, the sponsoring child must commit to a 10-year financial support period for their parents.

   • The Parent Retirement Category has no such requirement, meaning children are not financially responsible for their parents’ living expenses in New Zealand.

Which Option is Best for Your Family?

Factor	Parent Retirement Category	Parent Category
Residency duration required for children	No requirement	Child must have lived in NZ for 3+ years after gaining residence
Visa quota/EOI	No quota, apply anytime	Limited quota, requires EOI
Residency requirement	No requirement, parents can live elsewhere	Must meet minimum stay requirements
English language requirement	No requirement	May be required
Financial support period for children	No financial obligation	10-year sponsorship required
Investment requirement	NZD 1 million investment	No investment required
Income requirement	NZD 60,000 per year	No income requirement
Settlement funds	NZD 500,000	No requirement

Final Thoughts

If your parents have sufficient financial resources and wish to avoid long waiting times and sponsorship obligations, the Parent Retirement Category is an excellent choice. However, it requires a significant financial commitment in terms of investment and income.

On the other hand, the Parent Category is a more accessible option for families who do not meet the investment and income criteria, but it involves longer waiting periods and sponsorship obligations for children.

Choosing the right visa depends on your family’s financial situation and long-term plans. If you’re unsure which pathway is best, consider consulting a licensed immigration adviser for personalised guidance.