Partner work visa for New Zealand
A partner work visa allows you to work in New Zealand based on your relationship with a New Zealand resident, citizen or temporary work visa holder.
INZ focuses on the genuineness and stability of your relationship, how long you have lived together and whether your evidence is consistent and credible.
This page explains what INZ checks and how we prepare a clear, decision-ready partnership file.
Choose your situation
You are applying for a partner work visa
INZ checks whether your relationship is genuine and credible, and whether you meet the cohabitation and supporting evidence requirements.
We help you prepare a structured partnership file aligned with INZ standards.
You do not meet 12 months of living together
Not living together for 12 months does not automatically mean you will be declined. INZ accepts valid reasons including work, visa timing, family or housing issues.
We help explain your circumstances with timelines and evidence.
You lived apart or have limited evidence
If you have limited documents, inconsistent addresses or periods living apart, INZ may request further information.
We help identify evidence gaps and rebuild a consistent, credible partnership story.
What INZ checks for partner work visas
INZ reviews whether you
• have a genuine and stable relationship
• have lived together and for how long
• maintain ongoing communication
• share financial or household arrangements
• support each other in practical ways
• can explain any periods of living apart
• provided consistent and reliable documents
Any inconsistency can lead to delays or concerns.
How we prepare your partner work visa file
Step 1 Understand your relationship history
We clarify how you met, how the relationship developed and your living arrangements, including any periods apart.
Step 2 Identify evidence gaps and rebuild your file
We organise photos, communication history, shared bills, transfers and tenancy information into a clear structure.
Step 3 Prepare a decision-ready submission
We help structure your partnership evidence and explanation so your file is coherent and aligned with INZ’s partnership work visa criteria.