Partner Residence Visa (Partner of a New Zealander)

The New Zealand Partner Residence Visa allows the partner of a New Zealand citizen or resident to live in New Zealand permanently. This visa is designed for individuals in a genuine and stable relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident, offering a pathway to permanent residency and the benefits that come with it, such as access to healthcare, education, and the ability to work without restrictions.

Key Features of the New Zealand Partner Residence Visa

  • Permanent Residency: The visa grants you the right to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely.
  • Full Work Rights: You can work for any employer without restrictions.
  • Pathway to Citizenship: After holding a residence visa for a specific period, you may be eligible to apply for New Zealand citizenship.
  • Family Inclusion: You may include your dependent children in the application, allowing them to also gain permanent residency in New Zealand.

Eligibility Requirements for the New Zealand Partner Residence Visa

To apply for a New Zealand Partner Residence Visa, both you and your partner must meet certain criteria to prove that your relationship is genuine and stable.

  1. Genuine and Stable Relationship

You must prove that you are in a genuine and stable relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident. This includes:

  • Marriage or Civil Union: You are legally married or in a civil union with a New Zealand citizen or resident.
  • De Facto Relationship: You have lived together in a committed de facto relationship for at least 12 months.

  1. Proof of Relationship

You must provide evidence to prove the authenticity and stability of your relationship, such as:

  • Joint tenancy agreements or shared property ownership.
  • Utility bills or documents showing shared living arrangements.
  • Photos, travel documents, and correspondence.
  • Statements from family and friends supporting your relationship.

  1. Immigration Status of Partner

Your partner must be either:

  • A New Zealand citizen, or
  • A New Zealand resident who holds a residence class visa and lives in New Zealand.

  1. Sponsorship by Your Partner

Your partner must be able to sponsor your application by meeting the following criteria:

  • They must be eligible to sponsor you, which includes being a New Zealand citizen or resident for at least 3 years.
  • They must intend to live in New Zealand for the foreseeable future.

  1. Financial Support

While there is no specific minimum financial requirement, your partner must prove that they can support you if necessary.

  1. Health and Character Requirements

You must meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements, which may include:

  • A medical certificate and chest x-ray to prove good health.
  • A police clearance certificate from your home country to show good character.

Required Documents for the New Zealand Partner Residence Visa

When applying for a New Zealand Partner Residence Visa, you must submit the following documents:

  1. Valid Passport:
    • Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you plan to leave New Zealand.
  2. Proof of Relationship:
    • Documents proving your relationship, such as:
      • Marriage or civil union certificate (if applicable).
      • Joint tenancy agreements, utility bills, or shared bank statements.
      • Photos, correspondence, and travel documents showing the history of your relationship.
      • Statements from family and friends attesting to your relationship.
  3. Immigration Status of Partner:
    • Proof of your partner’s New Zealand citizenship or residency status (passport, resident visa).
  4. Sponsorship Form:
    • Your partner must complete the Sponsorship for Residence (INZ 1024) form and provide evidence of their ability to sponsor you.
  5. Health Certificate:
    • A medical certificate and chest x-ray if you are staying for more than 12 months.
  6. Police Clearance Certificate:
    • A police clearance certificate from your home country to prove good character, especially if you are over 17 years old.
  7. Visa Application Fee Payment Receipt:
    • Proof of payment of the visa application fee.

Application Process for the New Zealand Partner Residence Visa

The process for applying for a New Zealand Partner Residence Visa is straightforward but requires thorough documentation to prove the legitimacy of your relationship.

  1. Submit Your Online Application

Complete the Partner Residence Visa application online through Immigration New Zealand. Ensure you provide all required documents, such as proof of relationship, sponsorship form, and health or police certificates.

  1. Pay the Visa Application Fee

Pay the visa application fee, which is typically NZD 2,160. Fees may vary depending on your location and the method of application.

  1. Provide Supporting Documents

Submit the required documents, including proof of relationship, your partner’s immigration status, sponsorship form, and medical and police certificates if necessary.

  1. Wait for Visa Decision

Processing times can vary, but it typically takes between 6 to 12 months for a Partner Residence Visa to be processed. Immigration New Zealand will notify you once a decision has been made.

New Zealand Partner Residence Visa Fees

The fees associated with the New Zealand Partner Residence Visa include:

  • Visa Application Fee: NZD 2,160 (fees may vary depending on your country of application).
  • Medical Examination Fees: Costs vary depending on the country and provider.
  • Police Certificate Fees: Costs vary depending on your country and provider.

Validity of the New Zealand Partner Residence Visa

Once granted, the New Zealand Partner Residence Visa gives you permanent residency, allowing you to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely. After holding permanent residency for a certain period, you may be eligible to apply for New Zealand citizenship.

Pathway to Citizenship

After holding the New Zealand Partner Residence Visa for at least 5 years, you may be eligible to apply for New Zealand citizenship, provided you meet the residency and character requirements. Becoming a citizen offers additional benefits, including the ability to hold a New Zealand passport and vote in elections.

How We Can Help

At A Square Migration Services, we provide professional guidance and support throughout the New Zealand Partner Residence Visa application process. Our services include:

  • Eligibility Assessment: We assess your relationship, financial situation, and health to ensure you meet the visa requirements.
  • Document Preparation: We assist in gathering and preparing all necessary documents, including proof of relationship, sponsorship, and health requirements.
  • Application Submission: We help you submit a complete and accurate visa application to avoid delays or rejections.
  • Ongoing Support: We provide continuous guidance throughout the process, including help with any additional requirements such as medical or police certificates.

Build Your Life in New Zealand with a Partner Residence Visa

The New Zealand Partner Residence Visa offers you and your partner the opportunity to live together permanently in New Zealand. Whether you’re married or in a long-term relationship, A Square Migration Services is here to help you navigate the visa process and ensure your application is successful.

Contact us today to start your New Zealand Partner Residence Visa application and begin your journey towards permanent residency in New Zealand!