Starting your study journey in New Zealand is an exciting opportunity, not just for academic growth but also for building a new life in a beautiful and welcoming country. For many international students, having their spouse by their side makes the experience more meaningful and emotionally supportive. The thought of being away from your partner for a long period can be challenging, which is why New Zealand offers options for spouses to accompany student visa holders. However, not every student visa automatically allows a spouse to join. It depends on the level and type of course you choose. Understanding the right visa category, relationship proof requirements, and application process is essential for a successful outcome.
This guide, prepared under the supervision of a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA), gives you complete and up-to-date information on how to bring your spouse to New Zealand while you study. Let’s explore the pathway step-by-step.
Types of Spouse Visas a Student Can Sponsor in New Zealand
Immigration New Zealand allows student visa holders to sponsor their spouses, but the type of visa your partner is eligible for depends on the course you are enrolled in. These visas fall under the broader category of “partnership-based visas,” and they are granted based on your relationship status and study program. If you are pursuing a course that meets the eligibility criteria set by Immigration New Zealand, your spouse may be allowed to join you on one of the following visa types:
- Partner of a Student Work Visa
- Partner of a Student Visitor Visa
Each of these visas offers different rights and responsibilities. In the next sections, we’ll explore what each of these visas means, who qualifies, and how to apply successfully.
Partner of a Student Work Visa
The Partner of a Student Work Visa is an excellent option for couples who want to stay together in New Zealand while one partner is studying. This visa allows the partner of an international student to live and work full-time in New Zealand, provided the student is enrolled in an eligible program. Eligible programs include Level 9 or 10 qualifications (Master’s or PhD degrees), or Level 7 or 8 qualifications that are directly linked to occupations in high demand in New Zealand. These occupations are generally listed under the Green List or Post Study Work Visa list, meaning they are beneficial for the country’s workforce needs. If your partner is studying one of these qualifications, you could be eligible for this visa and enjoy the benefits of living and working in New Zealand alongside them.
Cost, Duration & Processing Time
The cost for the Partner of a Student Work Visa starts from NZD 1,630, and as per Immigration New Zealand, 80% of applications are processed within 7 weeks. The duration of your stay on this visa is tied to the length of your partner’s student visa. That means if your partner’s study visa is valid for two years, your work visa will also be valid for the same duration. While on this visa, you can work full-time without restrictions, which is a major advantage, especially for those seeking to build local work experience or explore career opportunities in New Zealand. You are also allowed to study short courses for up to three months, although this visa is primarily designed for living and working, not long-term study.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this visa, there are several important criteria you must meet. First and foremost, your relationship must be genuine and stable. Immigration New Zealand looks for proof that you and your partner are in a committed partnership. You must also be living together at the time of application, which is a key condition for all partnership-based visas. Additionally, your partner must hold a valid New Zealand student visa and be enrolled in an approved course. It’s important to remember that this visa is granted based on the course your partner is studying, so make sure their qualification meets the eligibility criteria. They will also need to complete a document called the INZ 1146 Partnership Support Form, which is a declaration confirming their support for your visa application.
Documents and Requirements
When it comes to documentation, you will need to provide a range of supporting evidence. You must submit a valid passport, which should remain valid for at least three months after you plan to leave New Zealand. If you are applying online, you will need to upload a passport-style photograph. Depending on the length of your stay and your travel history, you may be required to complete a chest X-ray or medical examination. These health checks are especially important if you plan to stay for more than 12 months. In terms of character requirements, anyone aged 17 or older who plans to stay for more than 24 months must provide police clearance certificates. These certificates must be obtained from your home country and from any other country you have lived in for more than five years since the age of 17. One of the most crucial parts of your application is showing proof that your relationship is real and ongoing. Immigration New Zealand does not accept casual or short-term relationships for this visa. You should submit documents such as joint bank statements, shared tenancy agreements, utility bills with both names, travel itineraries, photos together, messages, and even statements from family or friends confirming the nature of your relationship. The more evidence you provide, the stronger your application will be.
This visa is a great pathway for couples to be together while one person pursues their studies. At the same time, the partner can work, build professional experience, and even explore permanent settlement options later on. It’s an excellent choice for those in long-term relationships who are planning a future together in New Zealand.
Partner of a Student Visitor Visa
The Partner of a Student Visitor Visa is another great option available for partners who want to join their loved ones in New Zealand while they are studying. Unlike the work visa option, this visitor visa does not allow you to work, but it still lets you live in New Zealand for the same duration as your partner’s student visa. You can also study a short course of up to three months, which could be a language course, a personal development program, or even a basic academic course that fits within the time limit.
Cost & Processing Time
This visa is perfect for couples who simply want to be together during the student’s study period, even if work rights aren’t needed. It can be a great emotional support for the student while they are adjusting to life in a new country. The cost of the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa starts from NZD 341, making it a more affordable option compared to the Partner of a Student Work Visa. In terms of processing time, 80% of applications are processed within 9 weeks, although this may vary depending on your individual case and the documents provided.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this visa, you must be in a genuine and stable relationship with your partner and living together at the time of application. Your partner must already have a valid New Zealand student visa, or you can apply together—but your visa will only be approved once your partner’s student visa is granted. This means timing and documentation need to be carefully planned. Just like the work visa, your partner must also complete the INZ 1146 Partnership Support Form to confirm their support of your application.
Documents and Requirements
You will need to provide several documents to support your application. A valid passport is required, and it must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure from New Zealand. You’ll also need to provide passport-sized photographs—one if applying online, two if applying by paper form. Depending on how long you plan to stay, and your travel history, Immigration New Zealand may ask for a chest X-ray or medical certificate. If you are aged 17 or older and plan to stay for more than 24 months, you will also need to submit police clearance certificates from your home country and any other country you’ve lived in for more than five years since you turned 17.
Proving your relationship is genuine is a very important part of this application. Immigration officers want to be sure that you and your partner are not just trying to get a visa for convenience. Include documents such as joint lease agreements, shared utility bills, social media conversations, emails, photos from trips or events, and statements from people who know you as a couple. The stronger the relationship proof, the better your chances of approval. In addition to relationship proof, Immigration New Zealand also assesses whether your intention to stay temporarily is genuine. This means you need to convince them that you plan to return home after your visa ends, and that you won’t breach the conditions of the visitor visa.
While this visa does not come with work rights, it can still offer an unforgettable experience. You’ll be able to live in a beautiful country, support your partner emotionally, and explore local attractions, culture, and events together. It’s a wonderful option for couples who prioritize togetherness, even if they don’t need to work or study for a long period.
Application Process for a Partner of a Student Work or Visitor Visa
- Determine Eligibility: Work Visa: Your partner must be enrolled in an eligible Level 9 or 10 qualification (Master’s or PhD), or a Level 7 or 8 qualification specified on the Green List or Post Study Work Visa list. Visitor Visa: Your partner must hold a valid New Zealand student visa, regardless of the course level.
- Gather Required Documents: Identity: Valid passport and acceptable passport-sized photographs. Health: Medical certificates or chest X-rays may be required, depending on your intended stay duration and travel history. Character: Police clearance certificates if you’re 17 or older and plan to stay for more than 24 months. Relationship Proof: Evidence such as joint bank accounts, shared rental agreements, photos together, and communication records. Partner’s Support: Completed INZ 1146 Partnership Support Form by your partner.
- Submit Your Application: Online: Create an account on the Immigration New Zealand website and complete the application form. Paper: Download and fill out the appropriate application form, then submit it along with the required documents to the nearest Visa Application Centre.
- Await Processing: Partner of a Student Work Visa: 80% of applications processed within 7 weeks. Partner of a Student Visitor Visa: 80% of applications processed within 9 weeks.
Common Reasons for Refusal of Partner of a Student Work or Visitor Visa
- Insufficient Evidence of a Genuine and Stable Relationship: INZ requires compelling proof that your relationship is genuine and stable. Applications lacking adequate documentation, such as joint bank statements, shared tenancy agreements, photographs together, and communication records, may be declined due to doubts about the authenticity of the partnership.
- Failure to Meet Bona Fide Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate genuine intentions to stay temporarily in New Zealand and comply with visa conditions. If INZ suspects that an applicant may overstay or not adhere to visa terms, the application can be refused.
- Character and Health Concerns: Applicants must meet INZ’s character and health standards. Issues such as criminal convictions or health conditions that could impose significant costs on New Zealand’s health services may lead to visa refusal.
- Providing False or Misleading Information: Submitting incorrect or incomplete information can result in application denial. INZ emphasizes the importance of honesty and transparency in all visa applications.
To enhance the likelihood of approval, ensure that all information provided is accurate, complete, and well-documented, particularly concerning the authenticity of your relationship and your intentions during your stay in New Zealand.
Tips for a Fast, Successful Application
For a smooth and successful Partner of a Student visa application, ensure all your documents are complete, clear, and well-organized. Provide a detailed explanation of your relationship history and include strong evidence that you live together and share daily responsibilities, such as joint bills, photos, lease agreements, or travel records. Accurately complete all required forms, especially the INZ 1146 Partnership Support Form. Double-check that your partner’s visa is valid and their character and identity documents are up to date. Applying online is recommended, as it can speed up processing. Most importantly, always be honest and consistent with your information. A truthful, well-prepared application with solid relationship proof gives you the best chance of fast approval.
West Highlander Immigration
If you’re looking to bring your partner to New Zealand while you study, the process can feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, West Highlander Immigration, with the expertise of Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA), is here to guide you. With years of experience helping students and their partners, Ms. Kaur ensures your application is well-prepared, complete, and meets all the necessary requirements. She’ll walk you through every step, making the process easier and increasing your chances of a smooth, fast approval. Trust West Highlander Immigration to help you bring your loved one to New Zealand!