Partner work visa
- Often suits
- A partner who wants to work here
- Typical considerations
- Eligibility based on the supporting partner and relationship
Partner & family visas
Bringing your partner and family to New Zealand
Relationships are personal, and the evidence can feel daunting. We offer calm, practical guidance on partner work, visitor and residence options, partnership evidence and family pathways — so you can present your circumstances clearly.
Partner options
Different ways a partner can be in New Zealand
Partner work visa
Where eligible, a partner may be able to work in New Zealand based on the relationship.
Partner visitor visa
A visitor pathway can suit shorter stays or while other options are considered.
Partner resident visa
For couples building a life here, a residence pathway may apply over time.
Your relationship
Building a clear picture of your relationship
Evidence is about telling your story clearly. These are the kinds of things that help.
- How you met and how your relationship developed
- Time spent living together, where applicable
- Shared finances or commitments
- Communication during time apart
- Recognition of your relationship by family and friends
- A clear, honest timeline of key moments
What it means
What "genuine and stable" tends to mean
These words describe a real, committed relationship — not a checklist you must match perfectly. Every couple is different.
If your living arrangements are unusual, or you have spent time apart, that does not mean your relationship is any less real. It often just means the story needs to be explained clearly. An adviser can help you do that, and will assess the relevant facts for your situation.
We understand these conversations are personal. Our role is to listen, reduce uncertainty and help you present your circumstances with confidence.
Evidence themes
Evidence that tells the relationship story
Partnership evidence is not about one perfect document. It is about presenting a clear, honest picture of the relationship, including the ordinary details and any circumstances that need explanation.
Shared life
Living arrangements, financial decisions and day-to-day responsibilities help show the real shape of the relationship.
Relationship history
Photos, travel, messages and milestones can support the timeline when used carefully.
Support network
Family, friends and community awareness can help explain how the relationship is recognised.
Unusual circumstances
Periods apart, cultural context or limited documents can often be explained with the right evidence.
From overseas
Overseas partner applications
If your partner is overseas, you can begin the process before they travel. We can help you understand the options and prepare, so you are not starting from scratch once plans are made.
Compare
Partner work, visitor and residence — a comparison
A starting point only — the right option depends on your circumstances.
Children & parents
Children and parents
Dependent child visas
Dependent children can often be included in family plans. We help you understand how children may be added to applications or supported separately.
Parent pathways
Bringing a parent to New Zealand has its own considerations. We can explain the current options and what they may involve for your family.
Complications
Common partnership complications we help with
Time spent apart
You and your partner have lived in different countries for periods.
Limited shared documents
Your finances or living arrangements are not heavily documented.
Cultural circumstances
Your relationship or living arrangement does not fit a standard template.
A previous decline
An earlier partnership application did not go to plan.
Short relationship history
Your relationship is genuine but relatively recent.
Unusual living situations
Work, study or family means you have not always lived together.
How we work
How a partnership application usually unfolds
1
Talk it through
We listen to your situation and explain the realistic options.
2
Plan the evidence
We identify what may help show a genuine, stable relationship.
3
Prepare carefully
We help you assemble a clear, honest and complete application.
4
Stay supported
You can speak with a real adviser as questions come up.
Questions
Partner and family FAQ
What if we have not lived together for long?
That is common and does not necessarily prevent an application. We help you explain your circumstances clearly and present the evidence you do have.
Can my partner work while we wait?
It depends on the option pursued and your circumstances. We can talk through whether a partner work option may apply.
Can you guarantee approval of a partnership application?
No. Outcomes cannot be guaranteed. We focus on helping you present a genuine, well-evidenced and clearly explained application.
Can I include my children?
Dependent children can often be part of family plans. We help you understand how to include them.
My partner is overseas — can we start now?
Yes. You can begin understanding and preparing before your partner travels.
Next step
Discuss your partnership application
Tell us about your relationship and circumstances. We will help you understand the options and prepare with confidence.