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Dependent children

You can include dependent children in your visa application if they meet our requirements, or they can apply for a visa based on their relationship to you.

How your children apply for a visa

There are 2 ways thatĀ dependent children can apply for a visa.

  1. You may be able to include them in your visa application.
  2. They may be able to apply for their own visas based on their relationship to you if you:
    • already have a visa
    • are applying for a visa, or
    • are a New Zealand citizen or resident.
Note

Dependent children are not eligible for work visas.

How we define dependent children

The definition of dependent children depends on their age and whether they are applying for a resident visa or a temporary visa.

Resident visas for dependent children

Your child is dependent if they are:

If they are 18 or over they must not have children of their own.

If they are aged 21 to 24 they must also rely on you or another adultĀ for financial support (depending on which visa they have applied for).

Temporary visas for dependent children

Primary or secondary student visas and visitor visas

Your child is dependent if they:

If they are 18 or 19 they must not have children of their own.

If your children are 20 or older:

If they want to join you in New Zealand they need to apply for their own visa.

Tertiary student visas

If you are eligible for the 2021 Resident Visa, your child may be able to study as a dependent child at tertiary level if they:

For more information about requirements and how to apply:

Dependent Child Tertiary Student Visa