Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa
For partners of New Zealand citizens or residents who want to live and work in New Zealand.
The Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa is a New Zealand family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~NZ$750 including levy) and processing time (~4-8 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa is for
For partners of New Zealand citizens or residents who want to live and work in New Zealand.
Often a precursor to the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa.
Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa - eligibility criteria
- Be in a genuine and stable relationship with a NZ citizen or resident
- Have lived together for at least 12 months (or show shared evidence)
- Supporting partner meets the sponsorship requirements
- Both meet character requirements
- Meet health requirements
Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa (New Zealand) is ~NZ$750 including levy, with an indicative processing time of ~4-8 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration New Zealand.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Length of stay | Up to 2 years |
| Work rights | Work for any employer in any role (open work rights) |
| Study rights | Study up to 3 months allowed |
| Government fee | ~NZ$750 including levy |
| Processing time | ~4-8 weeks |
| Route to PR | Often a precursor to the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa. |
Pathway & next steps
Often a precursor to the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa.
Many applicants also compare Partner Resident · Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa, Partner of Worker · Partner of a Worker or Student 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 Work Visa pitfalls we fix
Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa cost?
The Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa government fee is ~NZ$750 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 Work Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~4-8 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa lead to permanent residence?
Often a precursor to the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa.
Can I work on the Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa?
Work rights: Work for any employer in any role (open work rights).
Who can apply for the Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa?
For partners of New Zealand citizens or residents who want to live and work in New Zealand.
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