Partner of a Student Work Visa
New Zealand
Last updated: December 27, 2025
Same as partner's visa
$940
6 weeks
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets you join your partner in New Zealand while they study as an international student. You get an open work visa, which means you can work for any employer without needing a job offer first. Your partner must be studying a specific level of qualification to qualify. The main benefit is that you and your partner can stay together during their studies instead of being separated. You can work, study for a short time, and travel in and out of New Zealand.
Key Benefits
- Work for any employer without a job offer
- Open work rights with no restrictions on hours or job type
- Study for up to 3 months per year
- Travel in and out of New Zealand
- Support dependent children with separate student visas
- Build work experience while partner studies
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Be in genuine, stable relationship with partner (married, civil union, or de facto)
- Live together with your partner
- Have at least NZD $4,200 in available funds
- Be in good health
- Have no criminal record or character issues
- Partner must hold valid New Zealand student visa
- Partner must study Master's/PhD (Level 9-10) OR Green List Level 7-8 qualification OR certain courses started before Sept 7 2022
Financial Requirement
At least NZD $4,200 (approximately USD $2,400) in savings
Documents
- Valid passportMust be valid for at least 3 months beyond planned stay
- Recent photosColored, passport-size
- Proof of relationshipUtility bills, rental agreements, photos together, joint bank statements
- Partner's valid student visa and enrollment proofCurrent enrollment confirmation
- Medical examination resultsIf required based on nationality
- Police certificateFrom countries where you lived 12+ months in past 10 years
- Proof of fundsBank statements from last 3 months
- Signed sponsorship formFrom your partner (INZ 1146)
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.