If you are planning to study in New Zealand and want to take your partner or spouse along with you, then this blog will help you understand how to apply for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand in 2025. Many international students wish to bring their loved ones while they study, and New Zealand gives that option through partner and dependent visas. This blog is written under the expert guidance of Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA). It gives you all the important information in simple words. You will learn who can apply for the visa, what documents are needed, how to apply, and the benefits of bringing your partner. This blog also includes latest updates from Immigration New Zealand.
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 studying. 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 able to join you under the New Zealand partner visa or spouse visa New Zealand category. This visa option is a great benefit for students who wish to live with their families while they complete their studies. There are two types of dependent visas available. One is a Partner of a Student Work Visa, and the other is a Partner of a Student Visitor Visa. If the student is studying a Level 9 or 10 qualification (such as a Master’s or PhD), or a Level 7 or 8 course related to a job listed on the New Zealand Green List, their partner may be eligible for a work visa. This means the partner can live and work full-time in New Zealand. If the student is studying a course that does not meet these requirements, the partner may still apply for a visitor visa to stay during the course duration.
This dependent visa New Zealand also allows dependent children to apply for their visas and attend school in New Zealand. This helps families stay close and adjust better in a new country. The New Zealand government supports the idea that families should stay together, and Immigration New Zealand has clear rules and steps to follow for applying. So, if you are planning to take your spouse or children with you while you study, this visa can make that possible. It not only helps you emotionally but also gives your partner the chance to explore work and travel in New Zealand.
Who can apply for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand?
If you are planning to study in New Zealand, and you are taking your spouse or partner with you, it’s important to understand who can apply for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand. Immigration New Zealand has clear rules about who is eligible for this visa. To apply for a New Zealand partner visa or spouse visa New Zealand, the student must be enrolled in a full-time course with a valid New Zealand study visa. Not all courses allow you to bring dependents, so your course must meet certain conditions. For example, if you are studying a Level 9 (Master’s) or Level 10 (Doctorate/PhD) qualification, your partner can apply for a work visa. This gives them full-time work rights in New Zealand. Also, if you are studying a Level 7 or 8 course that leads to a job on the Green List, your partner can also apply for a dependent visa New Zealand with work rights.
To apply, you and your partner must show that you are in a genuine and stable relationship. This can be a legal marriage, civil union, or a de facto (live-in) partnership. You must provide strong proof like marriage certificates, joint bank accounts, photos together, travel history, and other documents showing that you live together and share responsibilities. If your course does not meet the work visa criteria, your partner can still apply for a Partner of a Student Visitor Visa. This allows them to live in New Zealand during your study period but they won’t have work rights. In short, your partner can apply for a dependent visa if your course qualifies and your relationship is genuine. This visa helps international students live with their loved ones while they complete their education in New Zealand.
Types of Dependent Visas for New Zealand in 2025
When you plan to study in New Zealand and want to take your partner or spouse with you, there are two main visa options they can apply for under the dependent visa New Zealand category. Immigration New Zealand provides these options based on the level and type of your course.
- Partner of a Student Work Visa: This is the most beneficial option. If you are studying a Level 9 or 10 qualification like a Master’s degree or PhD, or a Level 7 or 8 course related to a job listed on the New Zealand Green List, then your partner can apply for a New Zealand partner visa with full work rights. This means your partner can live and work full-time in New Zealand for the duration of your study visa. This helps your partner support your family financially and also explore their career in New Zealand.
- Partner of a Student Visitor Visa: If your course does not fall under the eligible qualifications (Level 9, 10 or Green List courses), then your partner can apply for a spouse visa New Zealand as a visitor. This allows them to stay in New Zealand with you, but they will not be allowed to work. They can, however, enjoy the lifestyle, travel, and even do short-term courses for up to 3 months.
Both visas allow your partner to stay with you during your study period. You must also show that your relationship is genuine and stable. This could include providing evidence like photos, messages, joint bills, or rental agreements. These visa options are designed to help international students and their partners stay together during their time in New Zealand. Choosing the right visa depends on the course you study and your future plans.
Benefits of Student Dependent Visa New Zealand
Applying for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand offers many advantages for international students and their families. If you are planning to study in New Zealand, having your partner or spouse with you can make your journey much easier, both emotionally and practically. One of the biggest benefits is that if your partner qualifies for the Partner of a Student Work Visa, they can work full-time in New Zealand. This can help support your living expenses, especially when you are focusing on your studies. Your partner can gain New Zealand work experience, explore career options, and even grow professionally during their stay. Another benefit is the emotional support. Studying in a new country can be stressful, and having your loved one by your side gives comfort and stability. It also helps you settle into New Zealand life faster and adjust better to the environment. If you have children, they can also apply for dependent child visas. In many cases, school-age children can attend local schools as domestic students, which saves you money on tuition fees. Partners on a visitor visa can explore the country, study short-term courses, and enjoy life in New Zealand while supporting you.
These visa options also make the New Zealand study visa more attractive to married or committed students, allowing families to stay together. Whether your partner wants to work or simply stay with you during your study journey, the spouse visa New Zealand offers the flexibility and support you need to succeed while studying abroad.
Requirements for Student Dependent Visa New Zealand
To apply for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand, you and your partner must meet certain requirements set by Immigration New Zealand. These requirements help prove that your relationship is genuine and that you can support yourselves while living in New Zealand. First, your partner must show proof of a genuine and stable relationship with you. This can be a legal marriage, a civil union, or a de facto (live-in) relationship. You must provide documents such as a marriage certificate, photos together, joint bank account statements, rental agreements, shared bills, and travel history. These documents prove that you live together and support each other like a real couple.
Second, your partner must have enough funds to support themselves during their stay. Immigration New Zealand usually asks for proof of NZD 4,200 for a one-year stay. This money must be in a bank account or in the form of sponsorship or financial support. Third, your partner must meet health and character requirements. This includes a medical check-up and police clearance from their home country. These documents ensure they are fit to live in New Zealand and have no criminal background. The student must also be enrolled in an eligible course under a valid New Zealand study visa. Only students in Level 9, 10, or Green List-related Level 7/8 courses can bring partners on work visas. Others can apply under the spouse visa New Zealand as a visitor. Meeting these requirements increases your chance of a successful visa outcome and helps keep your family together while you study in New Zealand.
How to Apply for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand?
Applying for a Student Dependent Visa New Zealand is an online process done through the official Immigration New Zealand website. Your partner or spouse must create a RealMe account and complete the visa application form that matches your study program. Before starting, make sure your partner collects all required documents. These include a valid passport, relationship proof (marriage certificate, photos, joint bank details), proof of funds (around NZD 4,200), medical and police certificates, and a copy of your valid New Zealand study visa or offer of place. The student’s enrolment letter must also confirm the course level and duration. Once all documents are ready, the partner can submit the application online, pay the visa fee (usually around NZD 700–1,630), and upload the supporting documents. Immigration may request additional information, so it’s important to check emails regularly. Visa processing times can vary, but usually take 4 to 7 weeks. Apply at least 2 to 3 months before the student travels. It is always good to follow the official checklist and provide truthful and clear documents. A well-prepared application increases the chances of getting the New Zealand partner visa or spouse visa New Zealand approved without delay.
Can Dependent Children Also Come to New Zealand?
Yes, dependent children of international students can also join them in New Zealand. If you are planning to study in New Zealand and have children, you can apply for their visa under the dependent child visa category. This allows your kids to live with you while you study and even attend school in New Zealand. If your child is under 19 years old, unmarried, and financially dependent on you, they can qualify as a dependent. You must provide their birth certificate, passport, and proof that you are their legal parent. You’ll also need to show you can support them financially during your stay. In most cases, children of students studying at Level 9 (Master’s) or Level 10 (PhD) can study in New Zealand schools as domestic students. This means lower or no school tuition fees, which helps save money. However, if your course does not meet the eligibility, you may need to pay international school fees.
Each child will need a separate visa application with supporting documents like health checks and police clearance (for older children). The visa allows them to stay as long as your New Zealand study visa is valid. Bringing your family, including children, makes it easier to settle in a new country and focus on your studies. The Student Dependent Visa New Zealand pathway supports families staying together and growing together in a safe and welcoming environment. Always check with Immigration New Zealand for the latest rules before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Student Dependent Visa New Zealand
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 spouse visa New Zealand under the dependent category.
Can my partner work in New Zealand?
Your partner can work full-time only if you are studying a Level 9 or 10 qualification, or a Level 7 or 8 course related to a job on the New Zealand Green List. Otherwise, they can apply for a visitor visa, which does not allow work.
Can my children come with me?
Yes, dependent children can apply for a visa and live with you. In some cases, they can study in New Zealand schools as domestic students.
What is the visa fee and processing time?
The visa fee ranges from NZD 700 to NZD 1,630, and processing usually takes 4 to 7 weeks, depending on your case and home country.
What documents are required?
You need proof of relationship (marriage certificate, photos), financial support (at least NZD 4,200), medical and police certificates, and your New Zealand study visa or offer letter.
How West Highlander Can Help You?
At West Highlander, we specialize in guiding international students and their families through the New Zealand study visa and dependent visa New Zealand process. Under the expert leadership of Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA), we provide trusted, step-by-step support for your partner or spouse visa New Zealand application. With years of experience, we help ensure your documents are complete, genuine, and meet Immigration New Zealand requirements, making your journey smooth and stress-free.