How does INZ define partnership for Partnership Based Visas?

Immigration New Zealand recognizes civil unions, legal marriages and de facto relationships between individuals of the same or opposite sex as partnerships when couples maintain genuine and stable relationships while living together.

You both must also:
- Be at least 18 years old. If either of you is 16 or 17, you'll need consent from parents or legal guardians.
- Have met in person before applying for a Partnership Based Visa
- Not violate the Civil Union Act 2004 or Marriage Act 1995 in establishing your relationship

Additionally, both partners must be living together in the same home. This excludes:
- Holiday accommodations Flatmate arrangements
- Maintaining separate homes while occasionally staying at each other's residences

What if you have been living apart?

If you and your partner have not lived together for a certain period, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will evaluate how this separation may have affected your relationship. You'll need to provide the following details about your time apart:

- Why were you living separately?
- How long were you apart?
- How did you maintain communication during the separation?

How long can you stay in New Zealand on a Partnership Based Visa?

If your partner holds a temporary New Zealand visa, your Partnership-Based Visa will have the same duration as theirs.

If your partner is a New Zealand citizen or resident, you may qualify for a 12 or 24-month visitor or work visa, depending on the length of your relationship. You might also be eligible for a resident visa under the Family Partnership category.

Can I extend a Partnership Work Visa in New Zealand?

If you have lived with your partner for less than 12 months, your visa will be for 1 year and you can apply for additional visas to stay up to 3 years in total. If you have lived with your partner for 12 months or more, your visa will be for up to 3 years.

Can children be included in my Partnership Work Visa application?

Dependent children cannot be included in your Partnership Work Visa application. However, they may apply for their own visa under specific categories, such as:

- A visitor visa for young dependents.
- A student visa for school-age children.

We recommend consulting an immigration advisor to determine the best visa option for your children.

Do I need to be married to apply for a Partnership Work Visa?

No, you do not need to be married to apply. Immigration New Zealand recognises:

- De facto relationships.
- Civil unions.
- Marriages.

Regardless of your marital status, you must provide evidence of a genuine and stable relationship and proof of living together.

Can a Partnership Visa lead to permanent residency?

Yes, a Partnership Work Visa can serve as a pathway to permanent residency. After living together in New Zealand for at least 12 months, you may become eligible to apply for a partnership-based residence visa. This residency status provides long-term stability and grants access to New Zealand's healthcare, education, and other public benefits.

What happens if I break up with my partner while I am on a Partnership Work Visa?

If your relationship ends while you are on a Partnership Work Visa, you must notify Immigration New Zealand immediately, as this significantly affects your visa status. Here's what you need to know:
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Notifying Immigration New Zealand: You have a legal obligation to inform Immigration New Zealand when the relationship on which your visa is based ends. Failing to do so can result in serious legal consequences, including visa cancellation or being deemed an overstayer.

What if I’m not sure if this visa applies?

That’s where we help. We’ll quickly confirm if this is the right pathway, or if another visa would be better. Book a consultation to assess the right visa for your situation.