5 countries that offer ‘Parent Visa,’ allowing your family to join you

First things first. What is a ‘Parent Visa?’ This visa is known by various names depending on the country, and serves as a medium for reuniting citizens or residents with their parents residing outside the country. These visas come in diverse forms, allowing new residents to work or necessitating some form of investment. However, in the case of New Zealand, the parent visa permits parents to stay in the country for a maximum of 6 months at a time, likewise, the conditions will vary in different countries.

If you were not aware of this, read on to know more about such countries that offer Parent Visa.

In New Zealand, the Parent Resident Visa empowers residents and citizens to sponsor their parents for residence in the country. To be eligible, the New Zealand resident must have sufficient income and agree to sponsor their parents. This visa encompasses living, working, and studying in New Zealand, allowing the inclusion of partners in the residence application. The process involves submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI), and if selected, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) issues an Invitation To Apply (ITA). Only those who receive an ITA can proceed with a residence application, which must be submitted within 4 months of ITA issuance.

Australia implemented a Parent Visa classification and made revisions to the Migration Bill to streamline the process of family reunification. Eligibility requires the applicant to have a child who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible New Zealand Citizen, residing in the country for a minimum of two years before the application. The parent is also required to act as a sponsor. Initially, the Parent Visa grants temporary residence for a period of two years, with the possibility of later converting it to permanent residency.

Canada offers two types of parent visas. The Super Visa, which is a temporary option, remains open to parents and grandparents of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. It allows multiple entries for up to 10 years, with individuals permitted to stay for up to two years at a time. Financial support from the child is a prerequisite. Then there is another option, the Parents and Grandparents Program, which has higher requirements as it allows the holder to reside and work in the country.

In the United Kingdom, a parent will be able to secure a visa only if their child is under 18, a British citizen, or a permanent resident with seven consecutive years of residency. Active participation in the child's upbringing, including involvement in school-related activities and healthcare, is a requirement. The visa is initially issued for a period of 2.5 years, which can be later extended.

Germany facilitates family reunification with the issuance of a specialized Family Reunion Visa. This avenue is open to parents of individuals from non-European countries living in Germany, as long as these parents hold citizenship from the European Union, the European Economic Area, or the European Free Trade Association. Relatives and partners are eligible to apply for this visa, affording them the privilege to reside and work in Germany without the need for a distinct work or residence permit.