Frequently Asked Questions About Partnership Based Work Visas
Partnership-based work visas are one of our favourite types of visa applications, because who doesn't enjoy hearing about a good love story? Over the years, we've helped countless partners of New Zealanders, Residents, and Work Visa holders unite with their loved ones in New Zealand.
In today's blog post, we address some of the FAQs around partnership-based work visas that we've fielded over the years.
Do I have to be married to my partner to be eligible for a Partnership-Based Work Visa?
No. Marriage alone, by Immigration New Zealand standards, does not demonstrate a genuine, committed, and stable partnership. In the past, some individuals have falsified marriages to obtain visas. Couples need to prove that they are in a genuine and stable partnership and are living together.
What kind of supporting documents or evidence do we need to include in my application?
There are different types of documents and evidence you can include with your application, but a good start is:
Photographs of the two of you together with family and friends, taken at different times throughout your partnership
Supporting letters from family and friends who can confirm your partnership
Full birth certificates of any children you have together (if applicable)
Bank records that show joint finances
Evidence of joint assets
Bills, letters, etc., addressed to the same address
How long do we need to live together to be considered a genuine couple in a stable and committed relationship?
You and your partner need to be living together for at least a few months. As a rule of thumb, we ideally would like to see at least 5-6 months.
I have children from a previous relationship. Will this affect my application?
No, as long as you and your ex-partner/the parent of your child have a custody arrangement in place, or if you hold sole custody.
My partner is supporting my application, but he/she has a domestic violence record. Will this affect my application?
Yes. Immigration New Zealand have strict policies in place for partners who have been charged with domestic violence. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your partner's involvement, they may not be able to support/sponsor you.
Can I apply for Residence as a partner of a New Zealander or Resident?
Yes. Suppose your partner is a New Zealander or a Resident visa holder. In that case, he/she may support your application for a Resident Visa under the partnership category if you meet the partnership requirements.
My supporting partner and I broke up. What do I do?
If your relationship ends and you wish to stay in New Zealand, you will need to apply for a Work Visa based on your own merits. Depending on your work experience and qualifications, you could be eligible for an Accredited Employer Work Visa. This means your work visa will be assessed with you as the main applicant and with the support of an accredited New Zealand employer.
Check out our previous blog posts for more tips on moving to New Zealand.
