New Zealand Partnership Visa

Partnership Visa application for people currently outside NZ

Only the following applications can be made for those who are outside NZ and not currently in a safe travel zone:

• Culturally Arranged Marriage Visitor Visa
• Partner of a New Zealander Visitor Visa
• Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa
• Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa

In most cases, these applications will require you to show that you have either previously lived with your partner, or currently living with your partner.

A border exception request and subsequent Critical Purpose Visitor visa may be a better alternative to a partnership in some cases.

We recommend first speak with one of our licensed immigration advisers to find out what the best option may be in your situation.

Visa Options for Partners of NZ Citizens or Residents

Partnership Visitor and Work

If you feel you can prove that your relationship is genuine and stable, and that you have been living together, you have the option of applying for a partnership based work or visitor visa.

If approved, these types of visas could be valid from 12 to 24 months.

The work visa would allow open work rights. The visitor visa would not have any work rights.

Partnership Resident Visa

If you feel you can prove that your relationship is genuine & stable, and that you have been living together for at least 12 months, you may have the option of a partnership based resident visa.

You will be required to provide evidence of the enduring nature of the relationship.

Visa Options for Partners of Work or Student visa holders

Applications for these types of visas are not currently available for those who are outside of NZ and not currently in a safe travel zone.

In some cases, you are able to gain a visitor or work visa based on your relationship with your partner if they hold a current work or student visa. It is also possible to be included in your partner’s application for residency, even if you have not lived together for 12 months.

However, there are some circumstances where you may not be eligible for a visa based on your partner’s visa status.

Please contact us so we can discuss your situation more fully and provide you with the best advice.