Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced that, effective October 5, 2026, all valid Parent Resident Visa expressions of interest (EOIs) have moved into a single pool under the new hybrid selection model. The changes were announced on August 8, 2026.
Approximately 90% of EOIs will be selected in date order through a queue, while around 10% will be selected through a random ballot. The annual limit of 2,500 visa approvals in principle remains unchanged, and the selection is expected to take place four times per year.
Those who had a valid EOI on October 5, 2026, do not need to take any action.
Existing EOI holders will receive information about their queue position once final ordering and transitional arrangements have been completed.
Queue positions are still being finalized and are not yet available. INZ will contact eligible EOI holders directly as soon as this information is available.
The first selection round under the new hybrid model is scheduled for November 10, 2026.
Confirmation of EOIs
From October 5, 2026, EOIs in the parent category EOI pool do not automatically expire after two years.
This applies provided that people with EOIs in the pool confirm their interest in remaining in the pool. They can do this by completing a “Confirmation of EOI” form within the required timeframe. They must submit their confirmation form within six months of each two-year anniversary of submitting their current EOI.
EOIs that are not confirmed within the required timeframe will be removed from the pool. INZ will send reminder emails.
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.