Immigration New Zealand (INZ) defines partnership as:
Two people of the opposite or same sex, who live together in a genuine and stable relationship in any of the following:
If your partner holds a New Zealand Visa or is a New Zealand citizen or resident, a partnership-based visa will allow you to join your partner in New Zealand provided certain requirements are met.
Though the process of applying for a partnership-based visa seems simple & transparent, there are a lot of challenges that people face which often result in their applications getting declined.
So, if your partner is a New Zealand visa holder or a New Zealand citizen/resident and you would like to join them, you must familiarize yourself with the visa requirements and application process before applying for a partnership-based visa. A better understanding of the visa category & its requirements will increase your chances of getting a visa.
There are different types of partnership-based visas. It depends on the immigration status of your partner as well as the purpose of your visit.
The most common types of partnership-based visas include:
When applying for a partnership-based visa, one of the most critical requirements is to meet Immigration New Zealand (INZ)’s definition of a partner.
When applying for a partnership-based visa, the evidence must show that the relationship is genuine, stable, and credible and that you meet the living-together requirement.
The list of acceptable evidence could vary depending on the visa type you’re applying for and the relationship you share with your partner.
It can include marriage certificates, photos together, joint bank account statements, joint rental agreements, social media conversations and much more.
Evidence must be provided to show that the relationship enjoys public recognition, that you make decisions together, spend leisure time together and co-parent if you have children.
The evidence provided will help the case officer assess that you live with your partner in the same home and are in a genuine and stable relationship.
If you and your partner have stayed apart for some reason (Eg. working in different countries), adequate information must be provided regarding the same, which will be assessed when processing the application. The reason for living apart, how long you have lived apart and how you kept in touch must be addressed.
Apart from providing relationship-related evidence, you must also know the other requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free assessment which will lead to a prompt decision on the application.
Even with a defined process and basic instructions published, many people get their application for partnership-based visas declined. There are many reasons why. It primarily depends on the evidence provided and how an Immigration Officer interprets it.
It is advisable to engage the services of a Licensed Immigration Adviser like Immigration Advisers New Zealand Ltd. to guide you on the right path to avoid disappointment.
So, if you’re planning to apply for a New Zealand partnership-based Visa, please provide your details by clicking here and we will help you out.
Get in touch with Immigration Advisors New Zealand Ltd, which provides up-to-date immigration information so you can consider opportunities and prepare yourself for the future. To know all the required procedures, contact us at [email protected] or call on +64 09 3790219.
Vandana Rai is a Senior Licensed Immigration Adviser and has built a reputation around her rare set of skills, which could be considered ideal for her legal profession.