Immigration New Zealand has announced that people with a Parent Resident Visa expression of interest (EOI) have now received information about their queue entry and estimated selection dates, and that it has published estimated queue selection dates on its website.
The expression of interest (EOI) selection process for the Parent Resident Visa changed on October 5, 2026. The first EOI selection under the new policy is on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.
The estimated dates are intended to give sponsors and applicants a better idea of when their EOI may be selected under the new hybrid selection process, helping families plan ahead with greater confidence.
Approximately 90% of EOIs will be selected from the queue, while about 10% will be selected through regular ballot draws. This means an EOI could still be selected through the ballot before its estimated queue selection date.
The estimated dates are a guide only and may change over time as selection rounds occur and applications progress through the system. INZ will update the information after each quarterly selection round so people have access to the latest estimates. It is important to check regularly, as positions can change.
If an EOI is selected and the interested party receives an invitation to apply (ITA), they will have four months to submit their residence application. While there is no need to prepare an application before receiving an ITA, applicants may find it helpful to familiarize themselves with the visa requirements and supporting documents needed. This may be particularly helpful as EOIs can be selected through the ballot pathway at any quarterly draw.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news becomes available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.