To: The House of Representatives, The Government
Make a Fair Permanent Residency Path for Parent Visa Holders
We envision an Aotearoa where families are united, children are supported by the presence and love of their parents, and parents are free to share in the joys and milestones of their children’s lives. In this vision, families feel a sense of belonging, contributing to a harmonious and inclusive society where intergenerational bonds strengthen communities and enrich New Zealand’s social fabric.
Currently, there is a 10-year condition for Parent Resident Visa holders to become eligible for permanent residency. This condition creates significant travel restrictions, preventing parents from attending to personal or family matters abroad without jeopardizing their residency. It also imposes unnecessary emotional and financial burdens on families who are already contributing socially and economically to New Zealand.
This lengthy requirement is unfair compared to the 2-3-year pathways available for other residency categories, and undermines the principles of equity and inclusivity that Aotearoa stands for.
As a parent visa holder said, "All we want is to grow old with our children, to watch our grandchildren laugh and learn, and to feel that we truly belong in the place we call home. A fair residency pathway would mean our sacrifices have not been in vain."
Children are equally affected: "Home is where my parents are, and yet, every day, I live in fear that their future here is uncertain. A permanent residency pathway is not just for them—it’s for the families who dream of staying together, building lives, and contributing to this beautiful country."
Why is this important?
To make this vision a reality, we urge the Government to remove the 10-year condition for Parent Resident Visa holders and align their pathway to permanent residency with the 2-year standard used for other residency categories. This change would ensure fairness, reduce unnecessary hardships, and foster stronger family and community connections across Aotearoa.
We need your support to make this change happen!
Please sign and share this petition with your friends and family to help us create a fair and inclusive pathway for Parent Resident Visa holders. Together, we can build a more united and compassionate Aotearoa.
Please sign and share this petition with your friends and family to help us create a fair and inclusive pathway for Parent Resident Visa holders. Together, we can build a more united and compassionate Aotearoa.