Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa
For partners of New Zealand citizens or residents seeking permanent residence based on the relationship.
The Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa is a New Zealand family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$5,860 including levy) and processing time (~6-12 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa is for
For partners of New Zealand citizens or residents seeking permanent residence based on the relationship.
Grants residence; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship.
Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa - eligibility criteria
- Be in a genuine and stable relationship with a NZ citizen or resident
- Have lived together for at least 12 months
- Supporting partner meets sponsorship requirements
- Both meet character requirements
- Meet health requirements
Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$5,860 including levy, with an indicative processing time of ~6-12 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Permanent residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Permanent (indefinite resident visa) |
| Work rights | Work for any employer in any role |
| Study rights | Study with no restrictions |
| Government fee | ~NZ$5,860 including levy |
| Processing time | ~6-12 months |
| Route to PR | Grants residence; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
Grants residence; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship.
Many applicants also compare Partner Work · Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa, PRV · Permanent Resident Visa, Dependent Child · Dependent Child Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which New Zealand route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa pitfalls we fix
Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa cost?
The Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa government fee is ~NZ$5,860 including levy. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration New Zealand before applying.
How long does the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6-12 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa lead to permanent residence?
Grants residence; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship.
Can I work on the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa?
Work rights: Work for any employer in any role.
Who can apply for the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa?
For partners of New Zealand citizens or residents seeking permanent residence based on the relationship.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official New Zealand government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration New Zealand - official New Zealand immigration authority