When you’re taking the next step in your career journey- whether studying in New Zealand or advancing in your profession you want to make sure your loved ones can join you on that journey. It’s a natural desire to want your partner by your side as you explore a new country, enhance your skills, and pave the way for a bright future. And, if your course is on New Zealand’s Green List, you might wonder: Can my spouse accompany me on a Spouse Work Visa? It’s a question many international students and workers have, and we’re here to help you find the answers. Understanding the visa options for your spouse can be confusing, especially when navigating the details of the Green List and the different levels of qualifications required. But don’t worry- we’re breaking everything down to ensure that you have all the information you need to make informed decisions about your study and work opportunities in New Zealand. In this blog, we’re going to walk you through the essential details of the Green List, Level 6 courses, and your spouse’s visa options so you’re fully equipped to understand the possibilities and plan ahead. To ensure you get the best, most accurate advice, this blog has been written under the supervision of Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a licensed immigration officer with 19 years of experience in helping individuals navigate New Zealand’s immigration system. By the end of this blog, any confusion you might have will be cleared, so let’s dive in!
What is the Green List?
Before diving into whether your spouse can apply for a work visa, let’s first understand what the Green List is. The Green List is essentially a list of occupations that New Zealand is actively looking to fill due to a skills shortage. If you’re studying or working in one of these occupations, you’re in luck because it means your path to residency in New Zealand is clearer and faster. These occupations cover a wide range of industries, including health, engineering, and IT, but New Zealand needs skilled workers in all kinds of sectors. The Green List is designed to attract people who possess skills that New Zealand requires for economic growth and prosperity. Being on the Green List means that you may have access to various visa pathways, and it might even open doors for your family to join you on your adventure!
Level 6 Courses
Level 6 courses in New Zealand are typically classified as diploma-level programs that provide students with specialized skills and knowledge to advance in specific industries. These courses are designed to be more comprehensive and in-depth than basic qualification programs, yet they are not as advanced as bachelor’s or master’s degrees. Typically, a Level 6 qualification takes one to two years to complete and serves as a bridge between foundational studies and professional expertise in various fields. What makes Level 6 courses particularly attractive is their focus on high-demand skills that are essential to New Zealand’s growing economy. Students enrolled in these programs not only gain valuable academic qualifications but also enhance their practical abilities, making them highly employable upon graduation.
Which Level 6 Courses Are on the Green List?
Several Level 6 courses are included on the Green List, and this opens up numerous opportunities for students. The Green List covers many high-demand occupations, so if you’re studying one of the following fields, you may find it easier to work and eventually settle in New Zealand:
- Highway Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Construction Management
- Construction Project Management
For example, if you are pursuing a diploma in Electronic Engineering or Construction Management, you are on the Green List! These programs directly support New Zealand’s economy and growth, which is why they’re prioritized. But here’s the big question: Does this make your spouse eligible for a work visa?
Can My Spouse Apply for a New Zealand Spouse Work Visa if My Course is at Level 6 on the Green List?
While having a Level 6 course on the Green List offers many advantages, it’s important to understand that it does not automatically entitle your spouse to apply for a Spouse Work Visa. The eligibility for this visa is subject to specific requirements. To clarify, the Spouse Work Visa is generally available to the partner of an international student who holds a valid New Zealand student visa. However, for your spouse to qualify, you as the student must be enrolled in a higher qualification program, typically a Level 9 or Level 10 degree, or even a Level 7 or Level 8 degree, which is listed on New Zealand’s Green List. In other words, just being enrolled in a Level 6 Green List course, while beneficial, doesn’t automatically create the path for your spouse to obtain a work visa. It’s understandable that this can be confusing for many students and their families who wish to stay together and support each other while studying in New Zealand. The reason behind this requirement is that Level 6 courses are often considered diploma-level qualifications, which may not meet the same standards as the higher degree programs that are included in the Green List for the Spouse Work Visa. So, if you’re planning to bring your spouse along and have them work while you’re studying, it’s important to look into the visa requirements more carefully to ensure you meet the necessary criteria and explore alternative visa options to help keep your family together during your time in New Zealand.
Alternative Visa option for my Spouse?
The Partner of a Student Visitor Visa is designed specifically for the partner of an international student who holds a valid New Zealand student visa. This visa allows your partner to visit New Zealand, stay with you during your studies, and explore the country. However, it’s important to note that while your partner can live with you and enjoy New Zealand, this visa does not allow them to work. This visa is an ideal option for couples who want to maintain their relationship while you’re in New Zealand for your studies. The duration of your partner’s visa will align with the length of your student visa, meaning they can stay as long as you are studying. However, they are not permitted to engage in any form of employment during their stay.
Eligibility Requirements for the New Zealand Partner of a Student Visitor Visa
To be eligible for the New Zealand Partner of a Student Visitor Visa, your partner must meet specific criteria, and your student status must also meet the following requirements:
- Valid Student Visa: Your partner can only apply for this visa if you, as the student, hold a valid Student Visa for New Zealand. This visa must be active when your partner applies, and it should cover the duration of your studies. Your partner’s visa will be linked to the length of time you are allowed to stay in New Zealand, meaning their stay will not exceed the period of your student visa.
- Genuine Relationship: One of the key requirements for this visa is that you and your partner must be in a genuine and stable relationship. Immigration authorities will assess the authenticity of your relationship. You will need to provide evidence that you and your partner are in an ongoing relationship, not just for the purpose of obtaining a visa. Common evidence includes: Photos of you and your partner together. Messages, emails, or social media conversations that show the nature of your relationship. Travel history or joint vacations you’ve taken together. Documents showing shared finances, like bank statements or utility bills.
- Financial Support: Your partner must show they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in New Zealand. If you, as the student, are financially supporting your partner, you will need to demonstrate that you have enough funds for both of you. Alternatively, your partner can be sponsored by someone in New Zealand who will provide financial support during their stay. Documents that can prove financial stability include Bank statements for the past three to six months. Sponsorship letters if someone in New Zealand is helping with their finances. Proof of funds from your side as the student (if you plan to support them financially).
- Health and Character Checks- To ensure the health and safety of the New Zealand community, your partner may need to undergo a medical examination and a character check. This is particularly important if your partner plans to stay for more than six months. A police certificate will be required to show that your partner has no criminal record. If they’ve lived in multiple countries for over a year since the age of 17, they may need to provide police certificates from each of those countries.
What Can Your Partner Do on the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa?
While the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa allows your partner to stay in New Zealand with you, there are certain activities they can and cannot do during their stay. Although your partner is not permitted to work, they can study while in New Zealand. However, this is limited to short courses or workshops that do not exceed a three-month period. If your partner wishes to take full-time courses or pursue a formal qualification, they will need to apply for a different visa. This can be a great opportunity for your partner to pick up a new hobby or skill or gain some additional knowledge during their stay in New Zealand.
Important Documents Needed for the Application
When applying for the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa, your partner will need to provide several documents to support their application. Here’s a checklist of the essential documents:
- Proof of Relationship: As previously mentioned, you will need to show that your relationship is genuine. Evidence includes: Photos together. Emails or messages showing your relationship’s history. Travel itineraries or joint bookings.
- Financial Evidence: Your partner needs to show they have enough funds to support themselves during their stay. This can include Bank statements from the last few months. Sponsorship letters or affidavits. Proof that you, as the student, can financially support them.
- Health and Police Certificates: Your partner may need to provide A chest X-ray or medical exam (if staying for more than six months). Police certificates for character checks (if applicable).
How to Apply for the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa?
Applying for the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Submit the Application: Your partner can apply for this visa online through the New Zealand Immigration website or via a paper application. The online process is usually quicker and more efficient.
- Provide the Required Documents: Ensure all necessary documents, such as proof of your relationship and financial stability, are included with the application.
- Wait for Processing: The processing time for the visa application is typically around 10.5 weeks for 80% of applications. It’s essential to submit accurate and complete information to avoid delays.
- Visa Fee: The application fee is approximately NZD $341, which is non-refundable, even if the visa is not granted.
West Highlander Immigration:
If you are looking for professional immigration advice and assistance for New Zealand, West Highlander Immigration is here to help. Specializing in New Zealand’s immigration system, they offer personalized solutions and expert guidance through every stage of the visa application process. With a deep understanding of New Zealand immigration laws, they ensure you meet all the requirements and give you the best possible chance of success. Ms. Parwinder Kaur is a licensed immigration advisor with 19 years of experience helping individuals navigate New Zealand’s immigration system. Her extensive knowledge and dedication make her an invaluable resource for anyone looking to secure a visa and successfully settle in New Zealand. With a track record of providing clear, accurate, and reliable immigration advice, Ms. Kaur ensures that her clients receive the best possible outcomes.