A Guide to Choosing the Right NZ Partner Visa Pathway
Are you in a real relationship with someone from New Zealand? You might be unsure about which visa to get: a Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa or a Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa. Both options aim to bring couples together in New Zealand—but they have different goals, rules for who can apply, and results down the road.
This article will help you see the differences so you can pick the best option, whether you want to stay for a short time or plan to live in New Zealand for good.
Getting to Know the Two Visa Options
Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa
The Partner Work Visa is a short-term visa. It gives partners of New Zealand citizens or residents permission to stay and find employment in New Zealand for up to 3 years, or 1 year if the couple’s relationship is newer (less than 12 months). This visa works well for pairs who haven’t been together long enough to get residence but want to share a home in New Zealand as they grow closer.
Check out our complete guide on the Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa to learn more.
Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa
The Partner Resident Visa falls under the residence-class visa category. It grants you permission to **live in New Zealand **. You must demonstrate that your relationship with your New Zealand partner has substance and stability, and that you’ve shared a home for 12 months or more when you apply.
This visa suits couples who have established a strong relationship and plan to put down roots for the long haul.
To learn more about qualifying, check out our Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa guide.
Key Differences Between the Two Pathways
While both visas need proof of a genuine and steady relationship, the key distinction lies in how long you plan to stay and the specific visa category.
The Work Visa is short-term and offers adaptability, but it doesn’t lead to residency. You’ll have to submit a separate application for residence later on. The Resident Visa however provides a straight path to permanent residency—you won’t need to apply again unless your circumstances shift.
Pairs in the early stages of their relationship often begin with the work visa and move to a resident visa down the line. Others, who fulfill the criteria from the start, might opt for residence right away.
How to Choose the Right Visa for You
Here’s what to think about when picking between the two:
- How long have you lived together? If you’ve shared a home for less than a year, you’ll need to begin with the Work Visa. If you’ve cohabited for more than a year, you might be eligible for the Resident Visa.
- Are you set on staying for good? The Resident Visa requires more paperwork and evidence, so if you’re not quite ready for that commitment, the Work Visa offers an easier way in.
- Do you want to start working right away? Both visas let you work, but the Work Visa is designed to give you the chance to work in NZ for a short time.
Do you have plans to make New Zealand your home together for the long haul? If yes, and you meet the requirements, the Resident Visa offers a quicker path to citizenship.
Proof Needed and How to Apply
Both visa types need evidence that your relationship is real, steady, and just between you two. Immigration New Zealand might ask for proof like:
- Lease agreements or house papers you both signed
- Bank accounts you share
- Pictures of you two over time
- Records of how you keep in touch
- Details of trips you’ve taken together
For short-term visas, you don’t have to live together for a whole year, but you still need to show you’re committed. For settling down, living together for at least a year is a must.
Can You Get a Work Visa First Then Apply to Stay?
Yes, you can. Many couples choose this path. Starting with a Partner Work Visa lets you:
- Make New Zealand your home
- Gather more proof of your relationship
- Be eligible later to get a Partner Resident Visa
This step-by-step plan is typical for couples who haven’t shared a home for long but want to build a life together in New Zealand.
How Long It Takes to Apply and Process
- Partner Work Visa: Usually takes 60–90 days to process, but times can change based on how many people apply and if all papers are in order.
- Partner Resident Visa: Can take more time—6 to 10 months, depending on how good your papers are and if you need to have interviews.
Mistakes You Should Try Not to Make
- Asking to live here too soon without enough proof
- Not telling Immigration NZ about past visa denials or old relationships
- Not letting Immigration NZ know when you move or your relationship changes
- Thinking that just getting married or having a civil union means you’ll get approved
That’s why people turn to immigration experts like Ezy Immigration. We help couples steer clear of needless holdups or rejections.
Links to More In-Depth Information
To get a better grasp of your choices and how to submit your application, check out these related visa pages:
- Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa
- Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa
- New Zealand Partnership Visa Guide
Or reach out to our team at Ezy Immigration for advice tailored to your situation.
Conclusion
Picking the right partner visa isn’t just about filling out forms—it’s about building a strong foundation for your future together in New Zealand. You can opt to get a temporary work visa or go straight for residency, but you need to know your choices and plan ahead.
At Ezy Immigration, we make this tricky process easier. Our licensed immigration advisers give you expert help so you and your partner can live and succeed in New Zealand without worry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this visa gives you full work rights while you stay in New Zealand.
No. The government recognizes de facto relationships and civil unions as long as the couple has a real and steady relationship.
The government expects couples to live together for 12 months or longer to qualify for a Resident Visa.
Yes, you can apply for the Partner Resident Visa once you meet the residence requirements.
Not necessary. Having a child might make your case stronger, but you still need to prove you have a genuine and ongoing relationship.
Yes, but your partner needs to be a New Zealand citizen or resident. You must also show proof of your relationship.
