About Visas for Partners of NZ Workers
If your Partner works in New Zealand on a permanent Work Visa, you can join them through one of two specific visa types: the Partner of a Worker Work Visa or the Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa. Each visa is tailored to support family reunification, ensuring you can live together in New Zealand while adhering to the principal worker’s visa conditions.
These visa options are designed to ensure that you can enjoy family life without disrupting the compliance requirements of your partner’s work visa and understand the importance of family in your life.
Types of Visas for Partners of NZ Workers
Below are the two types of visas a partner of an NZ worker can apply for.
Partner of a Worker Work Visa
This visa allows you to live and work in New Zealand for the same duration as your Partner’s work visa.
- Length of Stay: Matches your Partner’s work visa.
- Cost: Starts from NZD $700.
- Processing Time: Around 11 weeks for 80% of applications.
- Study Permission: Allows for up to 3 months of study.
Eligibility
- Proving a Good Relationship: You must prove that you are living in a genuine and stable relationship with your Partner.
- Partner Visa: Your Partner must hold an eligible work visa.
- Good Character and Health: Both you and your Partner must be of good character and healthy.
Application Requirements
- ID Proof: Proof of identity for both you and your Partner.
- Relationship Proof: Evidence of your relationship, such as joint bank statements or cohabitation proof.
- Partner’s Visa: Your Partner’s current work visa details.
- Financial Proof: Proof of funds to support your stay in New Zealand or a valid sponsorship.
Conditions
- You may work for any employer unless specified.
- You cannot include dependent children in your visa application; they must apply separately based on their relationship with you.
Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa
This Visa is designed for partners who wish to join their working spouse or Partner in New Zealand without employment.
- Length of Stay: Coincides with the duration of your Partner’s work visa.
- Cost: From NZD $211.
- Processing Time: 80% processed within 3 months.
- Study Permission: Up to 3 months.
Eligibility Criteria
- Primary Applicant’s Visa: Your Partner must hold an appropriate work visa.
- Proving a Good Relationship: Evidence of a genuine and stable relationship is required.
- Good Character and Health: Both partners must meet health and character requirements.
Application Requirements
- ID Proof: Identification documents for both partners.
- Relationship Proof: Documentation confirming the relationship’s authenticity and stability.
- Financial Proof: Provide proof that your Partner can financially support you or that you have sufficient funds or sponsorship.
- Return Travel Proof: Proof of onward travel arrangements.
Conditions
- This visa does not permit you to work in New Zealand.
- You must leave New Zealand before your visa expires or transition to another visa type.
Note: The cost and availability of New Zealand visas can change because of decisions made by the New Zealand Immigration authorities.
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What is the Application Process?
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Review the specific requirements for the visa type you are applying for.
Step 2: Gather Documentation
Collect all necessary evidence and documents to support your application.
Step 3: Submit Application
Depending on location, applications can be submitted online or at an authorised centre.
Step 4: Await Decision
Processing times can vary, but updates can be tracked online.
Step 5: Arrival in New Zealand
You should present evidence of your visa conditions, including funds for onward travel.
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FAQs
There are two main types of visas available:
- Partner of a Worker Work Visa: This allows you to work in New Zealand while your Partner is on a work visa.
- Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa: Enables you to stay in New Zealand with your Partner but does not permit employment.
To be eligible, you must:
- Be in a genuine and stable relationship with someone with a valid NZ work visa.
- Meet health and character requirements.
- Provide proof of identity and evidence of your relationship, such as joint bank statements or a marriage certificate.
The duration of your stay will match the length of your Partner's work visa, allowing you to remain in New Zealand as long as they are legally employed under their visa conditions.
The application fee starts from $700. This fee does not include potential costs for health checks, police certificates, or the immigration advice fee, if applicable.
- Partner of a Worker Work Visa: Approximately 80% of applications are processed within 11 weeks.
- Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa: About 80% of applications are processed within 3 months
No, your Partner of a Worker Visa application cannot include dependent children. They must apply separately based on their relationship with the primary visa holder.
What are the requirements for the Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa?
- Your Partner holds a valid work visa.
- You are in a genuine and stable relationship.
- You meet health and character requirements.
- You have sufficient funds for your stay or a sponsor and onward travel arrangements.
Yes, both visa types allow you to study in New Zealand for up to three months without requiring a separate student visa.
If your Partner's work visa status changes (for example, if they obtain a different type of visa or their employment ends), your visa status may also need to be adjusted. It's crucial to consult with Immigration New Zealand or a licensed immigration adviser to understand your options.
You can provide:
- Joint bank account statements.
- Lease or property ownership documents showing joint occupancy.
- Utility bills are in both names.
- Photos and other documents show you and your Partner together at various times and events.
- Statements from friends or family affirming your relationship.
If your application is denied, you will receive a detailed explanation. Depending on the specific circumstances and Immigration New Zealand's policies, you may be able to address these issues and reapply or appeal the decision.
No, the Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa does not permit employment in New Zealand. If you wish to work, you should apply for a Partner of a Worker Work Visa.
Disclaimer: The information provided is subject to change based on New Zealand government policies. For the most current information, please refer to Immigration New Zealand or contact ICL Immigration for updated guidance.