Are you a student planning to study in New Zealand and wondering how your partner can join you on this exciting journey? You’re in the right place! In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the New Zealand Spouse Visa for Students in 2025. Whether you’re a student already planning your studies or about to apply, understanding the partner visa process is crucial for ensuring your partner can accompany you and live with you while you’re in New Zealand. We’ll cover the different types of partner visas, including those specifically for students, and what documents you’ll need to apply. We’ll also talk about the visa fees, processing times, and the requirements you must meet to ensure a smooth application. Plus, we’ll share some important tips on how to make your application stronger and faster.
To make sure you’re getting accurate and trustworthy information, this blog has been written under the expert guidance of our director, Ms. Parwinder Kaur—a Licensed Immigration Advisor with 19 years of experience. Ms. Kaur has helped hundreds of students and families navigate the visa process successfully, so you can trust that the advice here is both reliable and up-to-date. So, whether you’re curious about the specifics of the visa or ready to start the application process, keep reading! We’ve got all the answers you need to bring your partner to New Zealand with you.
Types of New Zealand Spouse Visas for Students:
Partner of a Student Visitor Visa
If you’re a student planning to study in New Zealand and want your partner to join you during your educational journey, the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa is a fantastic option. This visa allows your partner to visit New Zealand and stay with you while you study, ensuring you’re not separated during this important chapter in your life. While this visa doesn’t permit your partner to work in New Zealand, it offers them the chance to experience the country, enjoy its culture, and spend time with you during your studies.
What is the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa?
The Partner of a Student Visitor Visa is designed specifically for individuals whose partner holds a valid Student Visa in New Zealand. With this visa, your partner can visit New Zealand, live with you, and experience the country during your study period. It’s a great option for couples who want to remain together during the student’s time in New Zealand without being separated by distance. This visa allows your partner to stay in New Zealand for as long as your student visa is valid, and they can engage in limited activities during their stay. They are allowed to explore New Zealand as visitors, study for up to three months, and, of course, stay with you as you study. However, it’s important to note that this visa doesn’t grant your partner the right to work while in New Zealand.
Eligibility Requirements for the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa
To qualify for the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa, your partner must meet certain eligibility criteria. Here are the key requirements to keep in mind:
- Valid Student Visa for You- Your partner can only apply for this visa if you hold a valid Student Visa for New Zealand. Your student visa must be active at the time of their application. Your partner’s visa will be aligned with the duration of your student visa, and it cannot exceed the length of time you are permitted to stay in New Zealand.
- Genuine Relationship- You and your partner must be in a genuine and stable relationship. The immigration authorities will assess whether your relationship is real and ongoing. This can be proved by providing evidence of your time together, such as photos, travel history, and communication records. Immigration will want to see that your relationship is not just for the purpose of obtaining a visa.
- Financial Support- Your partner must show that they have enough funds to support themselves while staying in New Zealand. Alternatively, they can be sponsored by someone in New Zealand who will provide them with financial assistance during their stay. You will also need to show that you, as the student, can support your partner financially or that you have arrangements in place to ensure they will not be a financial burden on the country.
- Health and Character Requirements- Your partner may need to undergo a medical examination or chest X-ray to prove their good health. For stays of more than six months, health checks are usually required. Furthermore, your partner must provide police certificates to show they have a good character. If your partner has lived in multiple countries, they may need to provide police certificates from each of those countries.
What Your Partner Can Do on This Visa?
While on the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa, your partner has several opportunities to enjoy their time in New Zealand, although there are restrictions on what they can do. Here’s an overview:
- Stay with You in New Zealand- The primary advantage of this visa is that your partner can live with you in New Zealand for the duration of your studies. This is an excellent way for couples to remain together while you pursue your educational goals.
- Study for Up to Three Months- While your partner cannot study full-time or take part in any formal qualification courses, they are permitted to study for up to three months on this visa. This could include short courses or workshops that do not exceed the three-month limit. It’s a great way for them to pick up new skills or hobbies while they are in New Zealand.
Important Documents Needed for the Application
When applying for the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa, your partner will need to submit several documents. Here is a comprehensive list of what they will need:
Proof of Relationship- This is a crucial document to prove that your relationship with your partner is genuine. You will need to submit evidence such as:
- Photos of you and your partner together.
- Messages, emails, or social media conversations showing the nature of your relationship.
- Travel history together, such as flight bookings, hotel stays, or vacation pictures.
Financial Evidence- Your partner must show they have sufficient funds to support themselves while in New Zealand. This includes:
- Bank statements from the last three to six months.
- Sponsorship letters, if applicable.
- Credit card statements and any other documents proving financial stability.
Flight Itinerary and Return Ticket- Proof of travel arrangements is necessary. Your partner will need to submit their flight itinerary, which includes a return ticket to their home country after the expiry of the visa. This demonstrates their intention to leave New Zealand after their permitted stay.
Health Certificates- Your partner may be required to provide a chest X-ray or undergo a medical examination. This is especially true if they plan to stay in New Zealand for more than six months.
Police Certificates- As part of the character check, your partner may be asked to submit police certificates to prove they have a clean criminal record. They will need to provide police clearance from their home country or any other country they have lived in for more than 12 months since the age of 17.
How to Apply for the Visa?
The process of applying for the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa involves several steps. Here’s what you need to do:
- Submit the Application- Your partner can apply for this visa either online through the New Zealand Immigration website or by submitting a paper application. The online process is faster and more convenient, but both methods are valid.
- Provide the Required Documents- Ensure that all the required documents mentioned above are included with the application. This will help prevent delays or complications during the process.
- Wait for Processing- Once the application is submitted, the processing time is usually around 10.5 weeks for 80% of applications. The approval is contingent on providing complete and accurate information. Any missing or incorrect documents could delay the process.
- Visa Fee- The cost of the Partner of a Student Visitor Visa is typically NZD $341. This fee must be paid at the time of application and is non-refundable, even if the visa is not granted.
Partner of a Student Work Visa
This visa allows your partner to work while you pursue your studies, providing the opportunity for both of you to be together in New Zealand and for your partner to contribute financially during your stay.
What is the Partner of a Student Work Visa?
The Partner of a Student Work Visa is designed for individuals whose partner holds a valid Student Visa in New Zealand and is studying an eligible qualification. This partner visa allows your partner to join you in New Zealand and work for the duration of your studies. Your partner can work full-time on this visa without the need for a job offer from a New Zealand employer. Additionally, they can study for up to three months, which makes this visa a versatile option for couples who wish to experience New Zealand together while also maintaining financial stability.
Eligibility Requirements for the Partner of a Student Work Visa
To qualify for the Partner of a Student Work Visa, your partner must meet several eligibility criteria. These criteria ensure that both you, as the student, and your partner meet the conditions necessary for this visa. Here are the key eligibility requirements:
- Your Partner’s Student Visa- Your partner must hold a valid Student Visa for New Zealand. Additionally, your partner’s eligibility for this visa depends on your studies. You must be enrolled in an eligible Level 7, 8, 9, or 10 qualification, and your partner’s visa will be aligned with the length of your student visa. The work visa will allow your partner to stay and work as long as you remain in New Zealand with a valid student visa.
- Genuine Relationship- To qualify for the Partner of a Student Work Visa, you and your partner must be in a genuine and stable relationship. Immigration authorities will assess your relationship to ensure it is ongoing and not just for the purpose of obtaining a visa. You will need to provide evidence that you and your partner are living together and sharing responsibilities. This can include photos, joint financial commitments, and proof of time spent together.
- Health and Character Requirements- Your partner must meet certain health and character requirements. They may need to undergo a medical examination or chest X-ray to prove their good health. For stays of more than six months, this is typically required. Additionally, your partner may need to provide police certificates to show they have a clean criminal record. This is necessary if they have lived in any country for more than 12 months since turning 17.
- Sufficient Funds- Your partner must demonstrate that they have enough financial resources to live on while in New Zealand. The immigration authorities will require evidence of sufficient funds to cover their stay in New Zealand. You can provide this evidence through bank statements, credit card statements, or sponsorship letters from individuals who will be supporting your partner financially during their stay.
Eligibility for Spouse Work Visa in New Zealand
While New Zealand offers a wide range of study programs, not all of them qualify for a spouse work visa. In order for a student to sponsor their partner for a work visa, the course they are enrolled in must meet specific criteria. Here’s a breakdown of the eligible programs:
Level 9 (Master’s) or Level 10 (PhD) Degree:
Students enrolled in a Level 9 (Master’s) or Level 10 (PhD) program in New Zealand can sponsor their spouse for a work visa. These advanced degrees provide the opportunity for spouses to work full-time during the study period.
Level 7 or Level 8 Program on the New Zealand Green List:
If the student is enrolled in a Level 7 or Level 8 qualification that appears on the New Zealand Green List, they can also sponsor their spouse for a work visa. The Green List includes qualifications that are in high demand in New Zealand, making it a valuable option for both students and their partners.
Level 7 or Level 8 Course Eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa:
Students pursuing a Level 7 or Level 8 qualification that qualifies them for a New Zealand Post-Study Work Visa can sponsor their spouse for a work visa as well. This ensures that the spouse can live and work in New Zealand while the student gains valuable work experience after their studies.
In summary, to sponsor a spouse for a work visa in New Zealand, the student must be enrolled in a recognized and eligible program as outlined above.
Important Documents Needed for the Application
When applying for the Partner of a Student Work Visa, you will need to submit various documents to demonstrate your eligibility. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:
Proof of Relationship- Your relationship with your partner must be genuine, and the immigration authorities will want to see evidence of this. Submit the following documents:
- Photos of you and your partner together over time.
- Messages, emails, or social media communications showing your ongoing relationship.
- Joint financial documents, such as a joint lease, bank statements, or utility bills.
Your Partner’s Student Visa- You must provide evidence that your partner holds a valid Student Visa and is studying an eligible qualification in New Zealand. This is critical, as the work visa is directly linked to your partner’s student status.
Medical and Character Checks- Your partner may need to undergo a medical examination or chest X-ray to prove they meet New Zealand’s health standards. Additionally, police certificates may be required to show that they have no criminal history. If your partner has spent more than 12 months in any country since the age of 17, police certificates from those countries must be provided.
Financial Evidence- To show that your partner has enough money to live on while in New Zealand, you’ll need to provide documents such as:
- Bank statements from the last three to six months.
- Credit card statements or bank drafts.
- Sponsorship letters from a New Zealand-based sponsor (if applicable).
How to Apply for the Partner of a Student Work Visa?
Applying for the Partner of a Student Work Visa involves several key steps. Here’s what you need to do:
- Submit the Application- You can apply for the Partner of a Student Work Visa either online or through a paper application. The online process is generally quicker and more convenient. However, both methods are acceptable, so choose the one that works best for you.
- Provide the Required Documents- Ensure that all the necessary documents, such as proof of your relationship, medical certificates, and financial evidence, are included with your application. Failing to submit the required documents could delay the processing time or result in a partner visa refusal.
- Wait for Processing- Once your application has been submitted, the processing time for the Partner of a Student Work Visa is typically 6 weeks for 80% of applications. If any documents are missing or incomplete, it could extend the processing time.
- Visa Fee- The visa fee for the Partner of a Student Work Visa is approximately NZD $1,630. This fee is non-refundable, even if the application is not approved, so be sure to provide all necessary documentation and ensure your application is complete.
West Highlander Immigration:
West Highlander Immigration, led by Ms. Parwinder Kaur, a Licensed Immigration Advisor (LIA) with 19 years of experience, offers expert guidance to students and families navigating New Zealand’s visa processes. Ms. Kaur’s extensive knowledge and proven track record ensure a smooth and successful application journey for all clients, making West Highlander Immigration a trusted partner for your visa needs.