Family & partner visas
New Zealand Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa
For the partner of a New Zealand citizen or resident, this work route allows you to work for any employer in New Zealand while you are living here together.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official New Zealand government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa
- Route type
- Partnership-based temporary work visa
- Duration
- 1 year if you have lived together under 12 months; further visas up to 3 years total
Who it is for
- Partners of New Zealand citizens or resident visa holders
- People in a genuine and stable marriage, civil union or de facto relationship with a New Zealander
Requirements
- A genuine and stable partnership with your supporting NZ partner
- Your partner completes a Sponsorship Form for Temporary Entry
- Enough money to live on or an acceptable sponsor
- Genuine intentions for coming to New Zealand
- Meet health and character requirements
What you can do
- Work for almost any employer in New Zealand
- Live with your partner in New Zealand
- Build a partnership history toward the Partner Resident Visa
How to apply
- Gather evidence of your relationship and your partner's NZ status
- Have your partner complete the sponsorship form
- Apply online through Immigration New Zealand
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
Related New Zealand visas
- FAMILYPARTNERRESIDENCEPartner of a New Zealander Resident VisaFor the partner of a New Zealand citizen or resident, this residence pathway requires that you have lived together in a genuine and stable relationship for at least 12 months.View visa details
- FAMILYDEPENDENT CHILDRESIDENCEDependent Child Resident VisaFor the dependent child of a New Zealand citizen or resident, this residence route lets the child live in New Zealand indefinitely alongside their parent.View visa details
- FAMILYPARENTSPERMANENTParent Resident VisaThis residence route lets New Zealand citizens and residents sponsor their parents to live in New Zealand permanently, reuniting the wider family for the long term.View visa details
- FAMILYPARENTSUP TO 5 YEARSParent Boost Visitor VisaFor parents of New Zealand citizens and residents, this long-term visitor route lets you stay for up to 5 years at a time, with health insurance and sponsorship required.View visa details
