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The Partner of a Student Visa allows partners of student visa holders to live in New Zealand during their partner's study period. Depending on the student’s course level, partners may qualify for a visitor visa or a work visa, granting them the opportunity to live together and either explore New Zealand or work during the student's study duration.
The Partner of a Student Visa allows the partner of an international student to either work or visit New Zealand while their partner is studying. Depending on the student’s course of study, the partner may qualify for a work visa, allowing them to live and work in New Zealand, or a visitor visa, enabling them to stay without working.
The duration of the visa aligns with the length of the student visa holder's course of study, allowing the partner to remain in New Zealand for the entire study period.
To qualify, the applicant must be in a genuine and stable relationship with a student visa holder enrolled in an eligible course of study. The eligibility for a work or visitor visa depends on the type and level of the student's course.
With this visa, partners may live in New Zealand for the duration of their partner’s study. If eligible for a work visa, they can take up employment. If on a visitor visa, they can stay in New Zealand but will not be allowed to work.
While the Partner of a Student Visa does not directly lead to residency, it can be a temporary solution while the student is studying. Depending on future circumstances, the partner may apply for residency through other visa pathways.
Step 1:
Ensure you are in a genuine and stable relationship with a student visa holder who is studying an eligible course in New Zealand.
Step 2:
Based on your partner’s study course, determine whether you qualify for a work visa or a visitor visa.
Step 3:
Collect required documents, such as proof of relationship and your partner’s valid student visa.
Step 4:
Submit your visa application online through the Immigration New Zealand portal.
Step 5:
Immigration New Zealand reviews your application and may request additional information.
Step 6:
Upon approval, you can live in New Zealand for the duration of your partner’s studies, with the right to work if applicable.
Step 7:
Step 8:
Learn how to successfully apply for the Partner of a Student Visa in our upcoming webinar. This session will provide in-depth insights into eligibility, application processes, and the rights associated with the visa.
Whether you're considering a work visa or visitor visa option, this webinar will give you the information you need to make an informed decision and simplify your visa journey. Get your questions answered directly by NZIL's immigration experts.
Prefer to make a direct enquiry rather than attend a webinar? This option offers you personalised assistance tailored to your specific situation. By choosing a direct enquiry, you'll save time and receive expert guidance from NZIL’s team on your Partner of a Student Visa application. Whether you need help understanding your eligibility, preparing documents, or navigating the process, we’re here to provide clear, customised advice every step of the way.
There are many possible reasons why Partnership Visa applications are unsuccessful, even when you think you’ve done everything right. The most common reasons for rejection include:- Immigration NZ is not convinced that your New Zealand citizen or resident partner is not eligible to support your case- The immigration officer is not satisfied that your relationship is genuine and stable- The immigration officer is not satisfied that you have lived with one another for the required period of time- Either you or your partner are already married or in a civil union with another person- You don’t meet health and character requirements Immigration NZ requires a more accurate picture of your relationship than just a marriage certificate. You’ll need to provide a range of information such as utility bills, photographs, letters, and other documents. An immigration lawyer can help you understand which documents are relevant and which are not.
The application cost will vary, depending on your country of origin, what country you’re in when you apply, and whether you submit your application online or by post. Also bear in mind that you will have to pay for medical screenings, police records, and possibly translations. There are no refunds if your application is declined. To determine the application cost based on your specific situation, visit INZ’s fee finder.
Processing time will vary depending on how and when you apply for the visa. Immigration New Zealand states that 75 percent of Partnership Visas take up to 13 months to process.
This category is suitable for couples who are:- Married- In a civil union (opposite or same sex)- In a de facto relationship (opposite or same sex)- Not legally married or bound by a registered civil or de facto partnership but who can demonstrate that they are in a committed and durable relationship. In all cases, the relationship must be of a genuine and stable nature, which means the relationship is exclusive and likely to last.
You may apply online or by post. To apply for a Partnership Visa, you will need to prove that you have lived with your partner for at least 12 months. Our free webinar will walk you through the entire application process, detailing the essentials required for a successful application. We also provide 1 on 1 consultations if you'd like a professional review before submitting to ensure it gets accepted.
You'll need to provide documentation that validifies your relationship as genuine. Recommended types of evidence include statements showing your joint ownership or mortgage of a property, joint tenancy agreements, rent books, rental receipts or bills/letters addressed to both you and your partner. You may also need to supply medical screenings and police records.
Your family can be included in your Active Investor Plus Visa application. This can include a secondary applicant (such as your spouse/partner), and any dependent children under the age of 24 years.
If you’re applying for a visa based on your relationship, you and your partner will need to meet specific criteria in order to apply. Learn more about the visa requirements for you and your partner. If you’re looking to move your family over based on your working visa, find out more about family visa options.
