If you are planning to study in New Zealand and want to bring your partner or spouse along with you, this guide will help you understand everything about the Student Dependent Visa New Zealand 2025. Many international students dream of studying abroad, but they also want their loved ones to be with them during this important phase of life. New Zealand provides an option for international students to bring their partners and dependent children while pursuing their studies. This blog is written under the expert guidance of Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA), and provides clear, easy-to-understand information. You will learn who can apply for the visa, the documents required, how to apply, the benefits of bringing your partner, and the latest updates from Immigration New Zealand. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of how to make your New Zealand study visa journey smoother while keeping your family together.
What is a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand?
A Student Dependent Visa New Zealand allows the partner or spouse of an international student to live in New Zealand while the student is pursuing their studies. If you are going to study in New Zealand on a full-time course with a valid New Zealand study visa, your partner may be eligible to join you under a dependent visa. This visa ensures that you can stay with your loved ones while focusing on your education without feeling lonely or stressed. There are two main types of dependent visas:
- Partner of a Student Work Visa – If the student is enrolled in a Level 9 or 10 qualification (such as a Master’s or PhD) or a Level 7 or 8 course related to a job on the New Zealand Green List, the partner may be eligible for a work visa. This allows them to live and work full-time in New Zealand while the student studies.
- Partner of a Student Visitor Visa – If the student’s course does not meet the above eligibility criteria, the partner can still apply for a visitor visa. This allows them to stay in New Zealand during the student’s course but does not grant work rights. This visa also covers dependent children, allowing them to live with the student and attend school in New Zealand. This arrangement makes it easier for families to settle and adjust in a new country while ensuring that students can focus on their academic growth.
Who Can Apply for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand?
Before applying for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand, it is very important to understand who is eligible and what rules you need to follow. Immigration New Zealand has set clear guidelines to make sure that only genuine applicants receive this visa. This is to ensure that families who truly want to stay together while studying abroad can do so smoothly and without complications.
- Firstly, to be eligible, the student must be enrolled in a full-time course under a valid New Zealand study visa. Not every course allows dependent visas, so it is crucial to check the eligibility of your program before applying. Generally, students pursuing higher-level qualifications have the opportunity to bring their partner or spouse with them. This includes students enrolled in Level 9 (Master’s) or Level 10 (PhD) programs, which are considered advanced studies. Additionally, students taking Level 7 or 8 courses that are related to jobs listed on the New Zealand Green List are also eligible. The Green List includes skills and professions that are in demand in New Zealand, and bringing a partner who can work while you study is encouraged in such cases.
- The second key requirement is proving that the relationship between the student and their partner is genuine and stable. Immigration New Zealand carefully reviews this because the dependent visa is meant for real partners, not casual relationships. Evidence of a genuine relationship can include marriage certificates, civil union documents, or proof of a de facto (live-in) partnership. Supporting documents such as photos together, joint travel history, shared bank accounts, rental agreements, and utility bills can also strengthen the application. The more proof you provide showing that you live together and share responsibilities, the higher the chance of a successful visa application.
- Even if the student’s course does not meet the criteria for a work visa, the partner or spouse can still apply for a Partner of a Student Visitor Visa. This visa allows them to live in New Zealand during the student’s course, although work rights are not included. The visitor visa ensures that families can still stay together while the student completes their education, which is very important for emotional support and overall well-being.
In summary, a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand is available for partners or spouses of international students who meet certain eligibility requirements. The course level, program type, and proof of a genuine relationship are the main factors considered by Immigration New Zealand. This visa is designed to allow students to study in New Zealand without being separated from their loved ones. It ensures that families can stay together, support each other, and adjust more comfortably to life in a new country while the student focuses on achieving academic success. Having a supportive partner nearby can make the study journey much smoother, more enjoyable, and less stressful, which is why this visa plays such an important role for international students planning to study in New Zealand.
Types of Dependent Visas for New Zealand in 2025
When planning to study in New Zealand, many international students not only focus on their education but also want their family to be with them during this important journey. Immigration New Zealand recognizes the importance of family support while studying abroad and provides options for partners or spouses to accompany students through student dependent visas. In 2025, there are primarily two types of dependent visas available for partners or spouses, and the type of visa your partner can apply for largely depends on the level and type of your course. Understanding these options can help you plan better, ensure that your family stays together, and make your New Zealand study visa journey smoother.
Partner of a Student Work Visa
The Partner of a Student Work Visa is considered the most beneficial and flexible option for partners of international students. This visa is generally available if the student is pursuing a Level 9 (Master’s) or Level 10 (PhD) qualification, or a Level 7 or 8 course that is linked to a job on the New Zealand Green List. These courses are either highly advanced academic programs or courses that are related to in-demand professions in New Zealand. The main advantage of this visa is that the partner is allowed to work full-time while staying in New Zealand. This not only helps support family living expenses but also provides a unique opportunity to gain valuable work experience in New Zealand. By working full-time, your partner can explore professional growth opportunities, understand New Zealand’s work culture, and even build a career while you focus on your studies.
Apart from the professional benefits, this visa also brings emotional and practical support for the student. Studying abroad can be challenging, especially in a new environment far from home. Having a partner nearby provides comfort, stability, and motivation. Couples can share responsibilities, plan daily life together, and create a strong support system, making it easier for the student to concentrate on achieving academic success. In short, the Partner of a Student Work Visa allows both academic and personal balance for international students in New Zealand. It ensures that your family can live together, financially support each other, and grow professionally while you pursue your higher education.
Partner of a Student Visitor Visa
Not all courses make a partner eligible for full-time work under the dependent visa category. In cases where the student’s course does not meet the criteria for a work visa, the partner or spouse can still apply for a Partner of a Student Visitor Visa. This visa allows the partner to live in New Zealand during the student’s course, although it does not provide work rights. While the partner cannot work on this visa, there are still multiple advantages. Firstly, it allows families to stay together while the student studies in New Zealand, which is extremely important for emotional support, comfort, and a sense of belonging. Living together helps the student adapt to a new country faster, reduces stress, and creates a supportive environment for academic success.
Additionally, partners on a visitor visa have the opportunity to explore New Zealand, travel, experience the local culture, and participate in community activities. They may also take short-term courses or workshops for up to three months, which allows them to enhance skills, learn new hobbies, or gain insights into the local education system. These opportunities, though not professional work, add value to their stay and help families settle more comfortably.
Both visa types, the Partner of a Student Work Visa and the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa are designed to ensure that families remain together while the student pursues their studies. Immigration New Zealand emphasizes the importance of family support for international students, and these visa options reflect that priority. Whether your partner plans to work or simply stay with you, these visas create a safe, supportive, and family-friendly environment in New Zealand, which allows students to focus fully on their education and personal growth. By understanding the eligibility, benefits, and scope of these dependent visas, international students can make informed decisions, plan ahead, and enjoy a fulfilling study experience in New Zealand without worrying about being separated from their loved ones. Choosing the right visa also ensures that your family can adjust smoothly to life in a new country, enjoy its culture, and make the most of the opportunities that come with living in New Zealand while you pursue your studies.
Benefits of Student Dependent Visa New Zealand
Applying for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand has many benefits, both practical and emotional:
- Work Opportunity: If eligible, your partner can work full-time to support living expenses and gain New Zealand work experience.
- Emotional Support: Studying in a new country can be stressful. Having your loved one nearby provides comfort, stability, and confidence.
- Better Adjustment: Families can settle faster and adapt more easily to the New Zealand environment.
- Children’s Education: Dependent children can attend school in New Zealand, sometimes as domestic students, which reduces tuition costs.
- Flexibility: Partners on a visitor visa can travel, explore, or take short courses while staying together with the student.
Having your family close while you study in New Zealand makes the journey smoother and more enjoyable. It ensures emotional support, better focus on studies, and the chance for your partner to explore opportunities in New Zealand.
Requirements for Student Dependent Visa New Zealand
Applying for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand requires careful preparation and understanding of the rules set by Immigration New Zealand. Both the student and the partner must meet specific requirements to ensure the application is genuine and meets all legal and procedural standards. Meeting these requirements is essential for a smooth visa process and increases the chances of approval, allowing families to stay together while the student focuses on their studies in New Zealand.
- Proof of Relationship: The most important requirement for a student dependent visa is showing that the relationship between the student and the partner is genuine and stable. Immigration New Zealand wants to ensure that the visa is granted only to real partners or spouses, not casual or temporary relationships. Applicants need to provide evidence such as marriage certificates, civil union documents, or proof of a de facto (live-in) partnership. Along with these, supporting documents like photos together, joint travel history, shared bank account statements, rental agreements, and utility bills can strengthen the application. Providing detailed proof demonstrates that the couple lives together, shares responsibilities, and maintains a committed relationship, which is key to gaining approval for the New Zealand student dependent visa.
- Financial Requirements: Another essential requirement is proving that the partner can support themselves financially while in New Zealand. Immigration New Zealand usually requires evidence of around NZD 4,200 for a one-year stay. This money should be available in a bank account or through sponsorship, financial support from family, or other reliable sources. Demonstrating sufficient funds reassures the authorities that the partner can cover living costs without becoming dependent on New Zealand’s social support systems. Proper financial documentation is therefore a crucial part of a strong student dependent visa application.
- Health and Character Requirements: Health and character checks are mandatory for partners applying to join a student in New Zealand. A medical examination ensures that the applicant is in good health and does not have any conditions that could pose a risk to the community. Additionally, a police clearance certificate from the home country is required to prove that the partner has no criminal record. Meeting these requirements ensures the safety and security of both the student and the wider New Zealand community while allowing the family to settle comfortably.
- Enrollment in an Eligible Course: Finally, the student must be enrolled in a full-time course under a valid New Zealand study visa. Only students in eligible programs, such as Level 9 or 10 qualifications (Master’s or PhD) or Level 7 or 8 courses linked to jobs on the New Zealand Green List, can bring partners on work visas. If the course does not meet these criteria, the partner may still apply for a visitor visa, which allows them to stay in New Zealand during the student’s studies but does not provide work rights.
How to Apply for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand?
The application process for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand is simple and done online through the official Immigration New Zealand website. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Create RealMe Account: Your partner must create a RealMe account to access the application portal.
- Prepare Documents: Collect all required documents, including: Valid passport, Proof of genuine relationship (marriage certificate, photos, joint bank statements), Proof of funds (NZD 4,200 minimum), Medical certificate and police clearance, Student’s valid study visa or offer letter, Confirmation of course level and duration.
- Submit Application Online: Upload all documents and pay the visa fee (approximately NZD 700–1,630).
- Follow Up: Immigration New Zealand may request additional documents or clarification. Regularly check emails for updates.
- Processing Time: Visa processing usually takes 4–7 weeks. It is recommended to apply 2–3 months before the student’s travel date.
A carefully prepared application with clear and genuine documents increases the likelihood of smooth visa approval.
Can Dependent Children Also Come to New Zealand?
Yes, children of international students can also join under the dependent child visa category. Children under 19 years old, unmarried, and financially dependent on the student are eligible. Required documents include birth certificates, passports, proof of parentage, and evidence of financial support. Children can attend school in New Zealand, and in some cases, they can study as domestic students, which reduces or eliminates tuition fees. Each child requires a separate application, including medical checks and police clearance (if required). Having children with you helps the family settle faster and ensures a supportive environment while the student focuses on studies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Can I bring my spouse to New Zealand while I study?
Yes, if you have a valid New Zealand study visa for an eligible full-time course, your spouse or partner can apply for a student dependent visa. This lets them live with you while you study, giving emotional support and stability during your time in New Zealand.
Can my partner work in New Zealand?
Your partner can work full-time only if your course is Level 9, 10, or a Level 7/8 course on the New Zealand Green List. If the course is not eligible, they can still stay with you on a visitor visa but cannot work.
Can my children come with me?
Yes, dependent children can join you in New Zealand and, in many cases, attend local schools as domestic students if your course qualifies. This allows your family to stay together while you study.
What is the visa fee and processing time?
The student dependent visa fee ranges from NZD 700 to 1,630. Processing usually takes 4–7 weeks, depending on your country and documents. It’s best to apply 2–3 months before your travel.
What documents are required?
Your partner will need proof of relationship, financial support, health and police certificates, and your New Zealand study visa or offer letter. Complete and genuine documents increase chances of approval.
West Highlander Immigration
At West Highlander, we specialize in guiding students and their families to successfully study in New Zealand. Led by Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA), we provide expert advice on New Zealand study visas and student dependent visas. We assist with document preparation, application submission, and meeting Immigration New Zealand requirements, ensuring a smooth process. Our goal is to make your journey stress-free, reliable, and successful, helping you and your family achieve your dreams of studying and living in New Zealand.