Bringing children to New Zealand is a key consideration for migrant families. Understanding how dependent children are included in immigration applications ensures your family stays together through your immigration journey.
What Is a Dependent Child?
Definition
For immigration purposes, dependent children are:
Age: Under 24 years old (though main dependence is typically under 18/21).
Unmarried: Not married or in equivalent relationship.
No Children: Doesn't have own children.
Dependent: Relies on parent for financial support.
Not Working: Not in full-time employment.
Age Thresholds
Different ages matter for different purposes:
Under 18: Clearly dependent; standard inclusion.
18-20: Generally included if financially dependent.
21-24: May qualify if fully dependent, continuing education.
Over 24: Generally cannot be included as dependent.
Including Children in Applications
Work Visa Applications
When applying for work visas:
Included in Application: Children can be on same application.
Same Visa Type: Children receive dependent visa.
Same Duration: Visa length matches principal applicant.
Conditions: Study permitted, usually no work.
Residence Applications
For residence applications:
Family Unit: Partner and dependent children included.
Same Application: Processed together.
Same Outcome: All succeed or fail together.
Requirements: Each must meet health and character requirements.
Student Visa Applications
For student visa holders:
Dependent Children: May bring dependent children.
Education Access: Children can study in NZ.
Domestic Fees: May access domestic student fees.
Children's Rights on Dependent Visas
Education
School Access: Right to attend NZ schools.
Domestic Fees: Often entitled to domestic student fees.
Tertiary: May access tertiary education.
Quality Education: Access to NZ education system.
Healthcare
Some Access: Some health services available.
Entitlements Vary: Depend on parent's visa status.
Residence: Full access once residence granted.
Other Rights
Live in NZ: Right to reside with parents.
Travel: Usually multiple entry visas.
Activities: Normal childhood activities permitted.
Requirements for Dependent Children
Documentation
Birth Certificate: Proving parent-child relationship.
Passport: Valid passport for child.
Custody: Custody documentation if applicable.
Photos: Passport photos meeting requirements.
Health Requirements
Medical Examination: Required for some visas.
Vaccination: Immunization requirements may apply.
Health Conditions: May need to disclose health conditions.
Chest X-Ray: Required for older children (usually 11+).
Character Requirements
Generally Minimal: Young children usually no character concerns.
Older Children: May need police certificates if older.
Disclosure: Any relevant issues should be disclosed.
Special Circumstances
Sole Custody
If you have sole custody:
Documentation: Court orders, custody agreements.
Evidence: Proof of sole custody.
Other Parent Consent: May still need other parent input.
Shared Custody
If custody is shared:
Both Parents Consent: Both parents often need to consent.
Written Agreement: Document the arrangement.
Child's Travel: Consider ongoing travel arrangements.
Practical Planning: How will arrangement work with parent overseas?
Adopted Children
For adopted children:
Legal Adoption: Must be legally recognized adoption.
Documentation: Adoption certificates, court orders.
Recognition: NZ recognizes various international adoptions.
Process: May need legal advice on adoption recognition.
Children from Previous Relationships
Same Requirements: Included if meeting dependent child definition.
Custody Issues: May be more complex.
Other Parent: May need other parent's consent.
Blended Families: Common and manageable with planning.
Education Options
Primary and Secondary
State Schools: Free education at state schools.
Integrated Schools: Contribution may apply.
Private Schools: Fees apply.
Enrollment: Enroll directly with schools.
Tertiary Education
Domestic Status: May qualify for domestic student status.
Eligibility Rules: Check specific eligibility for domestic fees.
Study Options: Full range of tertiary options.
Continuing Current Education
School Year: NZ school year is February-December.
Curriculum: NZ curriculum differs from other countries.
Transition: Schools experienced with international transitions.
Age Placement: Usually placed by age, with catches.
Settlement for Children
Settling In
New Environment: Help children adjust.
School Support: Schools often have settlement support.
Activities: Encourage local activities and friendships.
Routine: Establish normal routines quickly.
Maintaining Connections
Family Overseas: Stay connected with family left behind.
Cultural Heritage: Maintain cultural connections.
Language: Consider heritage language maintenance.
Visits: Plan for visits when possible.
Support Services
School Counselors: Support through school.
Settlement Services: Many NGOs support migrant families.
Community Groups: Ethnic and community organizations.
Health Services: Child health services available.
Special Visa Considerations
Children Turning 18
During Application: Check implications if child turns 18 during processing.
During Visa: Usually visa continues.
For Residence: May need to apply before age thresholds.
Planning: Be aware of timing.
Children Born in NZ
Born During Visa: Child born to temporary visa holders may not be citizen.
Child's Visa: May need to get visa for child.
Citizenship Rules: Complex—seek advice.
Planning: Consider timing if expecting.
Adult Children
Generally Cannot Include: Over-24s typically not dependent.
Own Application: May need to apply independently.
Family Together: May be harder to keep older children with family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my children on a work visa?
Yes, dependent children can usually be included in work visa applications or apply for dependent visas to accompany you.
Will my children get free education?
During most work visa periods, yes—children can access state schooling. Tertiary domestic fee eligibility depends on specific visa status.
What if my child turns 18 while we're waiting for residence?
This can affect eligibility. Children should generally be included as dependents before key age thresholds. Get advice on your specific situation.
Do I need the other parent's permission to bring my child?
If you don't have sole custody, you generally need the other parent's consent or evidence they're not involved/ cannot be located.
Can my adult children come with me?
Generally not as dependents. Adults typically need to apply through their own visa pathways (work, study, residence through own eligibility).
Planning to bring your children to NZ? Find a licensed immigration adviser who can help you include your family in your application.