New Zealand · Family Visas

Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa

Permanent residency for the spouse or de facto partner (including same-sex partners) of a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.

Who it suits

Who this pathway suits

Partners of New Zealanders who have lived together for at least 12 months in a genuine, stable relationship.

Eligibility

Eligibility at a glance

  • Partner is a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
  • Lived together in a genuine and stable partnership for at least 12 months
  • Eligible sponsor (sponsor has not supported more than 1 other partner in the past 5 years)
  • Meet character and health standards
Process

How the process works

  1. Collate cohabitation and joint financial records
  2. Submit application online
  3. Immigration officer interview/home visit if required
  4. Resident visa granted
Documents

Documents you will typically need

  • Joint tenancy/mortgage, joint bank accounts, photos together, support letters from family, marriage certificate (if married)
Good to know

What to keep in mind

Partners who have lived together for 5+ years outside New Zealand with children can be granted a Permanent Resident Visa directly.

Official source: Immigration New Zealand — Partner of a New Zealander. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.

Ecosystem Architecture

Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa

Explore supporting intelligence briefings, interactive points assessment tools, institutional services, and parallel global migration pathways.

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Supporting Briefings & Advisory Articles

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Is Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa the right route for you?

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