Moving to New Zealand for higher education is a life-changing decision, and it’s natural to want your partner to be with you during this exciting phase. If you’re coming to New Zealand as an international student and plan to stay for a while, you may be eligible to bring your spouse or partner with you. The Partner of a Student Work Visa lets your partner live and work in New Zealand for the same duration as your study visa. This visa not only helps couples stay together but also allows the partner to build their own career path while exploring life in a new country. It’s a great way for both individuals to experience New Zealand’s lifestyle, job opportunities, and culture. Many international students find this visa to be a perfect support system, especially while they balance studies, part-time work, and personal life.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about this visa — who can apply, how the application process works, what documents are needed, and what life might look like once you arrive. Whether you’re married, in a civil union, or in a de facto relationship, this blog is for you.
What is the Partner of a Student Work Visa?
The Partner of a Student Work Visa is a temporary visa designed to help partners of international students live and work in New Zealand while their partner is enrolled in an eligible full-time course. It is one of the most flexible visa categories under the New Zealand immigration system. Once granted, this visa allows the holder to work full-time for any employer, in almost any job, without restrictions on hours or location. It’s different from other visa categories that tie the worker to a specific job or employer. What makes this visa even more appealing is that it supports the idea of family unity. Immigration New Zealand understands the emotional and financial challenges of living apart, so this visa category helps partners contribute to their household, support their spouse’s study goals, and explore their own career opportunities. Importantly, the visa’s duration is directly linked to the student partner’s course length. The Partner of a Student Work Visa also comes with rights such as the ability to enter and exit New Zealand freely and study short-term courses (up to three months) without needing a separate student visa.
Who Can Apply?
To apply for this visa, you need to be in a genuine and stable relationship with someone who holds a valid New Zealand student visa. But there’s more to it. Immigration New Zealand requires proof that the relationship is real, not just on paper, but emotionally and practically. This means you should have lived together for some time and have shared financial responsibilities, communication history, and mutual plans. It doesn’t matter if you are married, in a civil union, or in a de facto relationship — all are eligible, provided the bond is stable and genuine. Now, the kind of study your partner is doing plays a big role in your eligibility. You can only apply for this work visa if your partner is studying:
(1) a Level 9 or 10 qualification (like a Master’s or PhD), or
(2) a Level 7 or 8 qualification that is recognised under the Green List of in-demand qualifications in New Zealand.
If your partner’s course is not on these lists, you may still be able to apply for a visitor visa instead, but not a work visa. So, the eligibility really comes down to two things: your relationship and the type of qualification your partner is pursuing.
Documents Required
Document preparation is one of the most important steps in the visa process, and being thorough here can save a lot of time and stress.
- The first group of documents you’ll need are your identity documents, including your valid passport, passport-sized photographs, and completed visa forms. Then comes the proof of relationship — probably the most scrutinized part of the application.
- You’ll need to show Immigration New Zealand that your relationship is genuine and stable. This can include joint bank accounts, rental agreements, photos of you together, travel records, chat screenshots, and letters from friends and family confirming your relationship. If you’ve been living together, tenancy agreements or utility bills in both names are very helpful. You’ll also need a copy of your partner’s student visa and evidence of their enrollment in an eligible program.
- Additionally, applicants may be required to submit health and character documents, such as medical certificates or chest X-rays (if you’re staying more than 12 months) and police clearance certificates if staying more than 24 months.
- Finally, Immigration NZ will want to see proof of financial capacity, which usually means you have at least NZD 4,200 to support yourself during your stay.
Application Process
- Applying for the Partner of a Student Work Visa is mostly done online through the official Immigration New Zealand website. The first step is to create a RealMe login and start your application online. You’ll be asked to upload scanned copies of your documents, so make sure they are clear, high-quality, and translated into English if needed.
- The form will ask for details about your partner, your relationship, and your own background. It’s important to be honest and accurate with all answers. Once the application is filled out, you’ll be asked to pay the visa fee, which varies depending on where you’re applying from (usually around NZD 495–635).
- After submission, the application goes into processing, which can take anywhere from 20 to 45 working days, sometimes longer, depending on the time of year or your individual case. If Immigration New Zealand needs more information, they may contact you via email, so check your inbox regularly.
- Keep a close eye on your immigration account, too, because updates will be posted there. You’ll be notified by email once a decision has been made, and if approved, you’ll get your visa electronically.
Visa Duration and Conditions
The duration of the Partner of a Student Work Visa depends entirely on the length of your partner’s student visa. If your partner is studying a two-year Master’s program, then your work visa will generally also be valid for two years. The key point to remember is that your visa cannot go beyond the validity of your partner’s visa — they must be your primary connection to the country. Once their visa ends or is withdrawn, yours will likely be affected too. While on this visa, you can work full-time in almost any job, and you’re not restricted to specific employers or industries.
However, there are a few limitations: you cannot work in roles involving commercial sex services, and some health-related jobs may require further checks or qualifications. Unlike a visitor visa, this visa doesn’t allow you to study full-time, but you can enroll in short courses of up to 3 months without needing a separate student visa. It’s a great option for partners who want to work, gain New Zealand work experience, and support their student partner while building their own career and life. It’s flexibility and freedom all in one — perfect for couples with future plans in Aotearoa.
Cost and Processing Time
The cost of applying for the Partner of a Student Work Visa can vary based on where you’re applying from and whether you’re applying online or via paper. On average, expect to pay around NZD 495 to 635 for the visa application. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is declined, so make sure you’re confident with your documents before submitting. In addition to the application fee, you may have to pay for a medical examination or chest x-ray if your stay is over 12 months. If your home country requires a police clearance certificate, that will also come with an added cost.
As for processing time, most applications are processed within 30 to 60 calendar days. However, processing times can be longer depending on peak seasons, the completeness of your documents, and any verification that Immigration New Zealand may need to do. If your relationship documentation is unclear, or if your partner’s course details raise questions, the process may take longer. That’s why it’s always good to double-check everything, and even consult with a Licensed Immigration Adviser if needed. While you’re waiting, it’s wise to avoid making any travel plans, as your passport or decision may take time.
What Happens After the Student Visa Ends?
When your partner’s student visa ends, your work visa is directly affected. Since your visa is granted based on their status, it does not stand alone. If their visa is not extended — either because they finish their course or leave the country — then your visa is also likely to expire around the same time. However, this doesn’t mean the end of your journey in New Zealand. Many couples choose to apply for post-study work visas once the student finishes their course.
If your partner is eligible for a post-study work visa, and you continue to meet relationship requirements, you may then be eligible for a new Partner of a Worker Work Visa. That visa also allows you to live and work full-time in New Zealand. In fact, this transition is quite common, and Immigration NZ provides pathways to support couples who want to continue their life in New Zealand beyond education. The key here is planning. Talk about your future visa strategy ahead of time so you both understand what documents and timelines you’ll need. This will make it easier to apply for the next visa without unnecessary delays or disruptions to your life.
Tips for a Successful Application
- A successful visa application starts with being well-prepared. First and foremost, gather strong, consistent evidence of your relationship. Think about every aspect of your life together — finances, communication, living arrangements, travel history, and social proof. Include photos, chat records, call logs, and joint documents like bills or leases. Don’t leave it to chance. Make sure everything is clearly labelled and explained in a short cover letter.
- Next, understand your partner’s course eligibility. If they’re not studying a qualifying Level 9, 10, or eligible Level 7/8 course, your application for a work visa will likely not be accepted. If that’s the case, explore the visitor visa route instead. Submit all documents in high quality, translated into English if needed, and follow the checklist provided by Immigration NZ carefully.
- Another tip — submit your application online. It’s faster and easier to track. Stay honest and clear in your answers, and avoid exaggeration. If you’re unsure, don’t guess — seek advice. Consider speaking to a Licensed Immigration Adviser who can guide you through complex situations or grey areas. Finally, be patient. Immigration processes take time, but the more organized and accurate your application, the better your outcome.
West Highlander Immigration
West Highlander Immigration, led by a Licensed Immigration Adviser, specialises in helping students from India successfully apply for courses like the Graduate Diploma in Applied Management in New Zealand. We guide you through selecting the right institution, preparing documents, meeting English requirements, and ensuring your visa application is strong and complete. With over 19 years of experience, we provide personalised, transparent advice to maximise your success. Connect with us for end-to-end support.