1. What is a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa for New Zealand?
A Partnership-Based Temporary Visa for New Zealand is a type of visa that allows individuals to live and work in New Zealand temporarily based on their partnership or relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident. This visa is intended for individuals who are in a genuine and stable relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident and wish to join or stay with their partner in New Zealand for a specific period of time. The visa is typically granted for a duration of up to 24 months, and it is important to note that the applicant must meet certain criteria to be eligible for this visa, including providing evidence of their partnership, meeting health and character requirements, and demonstrating genuine intentions to live together with their partner in New Zealand.
2. Who is eligible to apply for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa?
1. To be eligible to apply for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa for New Zealand, an individual must meet the following criteria:
– The applicant must be in a genuine and stable relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident partner.
– The relationship must be recognized under New Zealand law, which includes marriages, civil unions, or de facto partnerships.
– Both partners must be at least 18 years old.
– The applicant must intend to live with their partner in New Zealand for the duration of the visa.
– The partner in New Zealand must meet certain character and health requirements.
– The applicant must meet health and character requirements as well.
– The partnership must have been in existence for at least 12 months prior to the application, unless there are compelling reasons for a shorter duration.
2. Additionally, the applicant may need to provide evidence of the genuineness of their relationship, such as financial co-mingling, shared responsibilities, joint travel, or statements from friends and family supporting the relationship. It is important to carefully review the specific requirements outlined on the Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application form (INZ 1198) and provide thorough documentation to support the application.
3. What documents are required to support a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application?
When applying for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa in New Zealand, several documents are required to support your application. These documents are essential to demonstrate the genuineness of your relationship and your eligibility for the visa. Some of the key documents include:
1. Partnership Evidence: This includes proof of your relationship with your partner, such as photographs together, letters or emails exchanged, joint financial commitments, or shared property ownership.
2. Identity Documents: Both you and your partner will need to provide certified copies of your passports or birth certificates to verify your identities.
3. Sponsorship Form: If your partner is sponsoring your visa application, they will need to complete and submit a sponsorship form as part of the application.
4. Proof of Funds: You may need to provide evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in New Zealand, which could include bank statements or financial support letters.
5. Medical and Police Checks: You may be required to undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates from any country where you have lived for more than 12 months in the last 10 years.
6. Relationship Statement: A detailed statement outlining the history and nature of your relationship with your partner will be required to further support the legitimacy of your application.
7. Other Supporting Documents: Depending on your individual circumstances, additional documents such as evidence of accommodation arrangements, employment status, or plans for your stay in New Zealand may also be necessary.
It is crucial to provide all the required documents in the format specified by Immigration New Zealand to ensure a smooth processing of your Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application.
4. How can I demonstrate my genuine and stable relationship for the visa application?
1. Provide evidence of cohabitation: Submit documents that prove both partners have been living together, such as joint rental agreements, utility bills in both names, or correspondence addressed to both individuals at the same address.
2. Show joint financial commitments: Include evidence of joint bank accounts, shared loans or credit cards, or joint ownership of property/assets. This demonstrates shared financial responsibilities and a commitment to building a life together.
3. Provide evidence of shared activities and milestones: Include photographs, travel itineraries, and tickets of trips taken together, as well as documents showing joint memberships or participation in activities or events as a couple.
4. Provide statements from family and friends: Include letters from family members, friends, or acquaintances who can attest to the genuineness and stability of your relationship, highlighting key aspects such as how long they have known you as a couple and observations of your relationship dynamics.
5. What are the financial requirements for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application?
The financial requirements for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application in New Zealand are crucial as they demonstrate the ability of the partners to support themselves during their stay. Here are the key points related to the financial requirements for this visa application:
1. Evidence of financial support: Applicants need to provide evidence that they have enough funds to cover their living expenses while in New Zealand.
2. Minimum income threshold: The New Zealand immigration authorities may require the sponsoring partner to meet a certain minimum income threshold to ensure that they can financially support their partner during their stay in the country.
3. Proof of financial stability: Applicants may need to provide evidence of their financial stability, such as bank statements, pay stubs, or employment contracts, to demonstrate their ability to support themselves.
4. Health insurance: It is also important to provide evidence of health insurance coverage for the duration of the stay in New Zealand, as this is a key aspect of the financial requirements for the visa application.
Overall, meeting the financial requirements is essential for a successful Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application in New Zealand. It is important to provide thorough documentation and evidence to demonstrate financial stability and the ability to support oneself during the stay in the country.
6. How long does it take to process a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application?
The processing time for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application can vary depending on various factors such as the completeness of the application, the volume of applications received, and the individual circumstances of the applicant. In general, Immigration New Zealand aims to process temporary visa applications within 30 days. However, some applications may be processed faster, while others may take longer due to the need for additional information or further assessment.
1. Completeness of Application: Ensuring that all required documents and information are provided at the time of application can help expedite the processing time.
2. Volume of Applications: During peak seasons, such as the start of the academic year or holiday periods, there may be a higher volume of visa applications which can potentially lead to longer processing times.
3. Individual Circumstances: If the applicant has complex circumstances, a history of previous visa denials, or additional background checks are required, the processing time may be extended.
Overall, applicants are encouraged to submit their Partnership-Based Temporary Visa applications well in advance of their intended travel dates to allow for sufficient processing time.
7. Can I work in New Zealand on a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa?
Yes, you can work in New Zealand on a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa under certain conditions. The visa allows partners of New Zealand citizens or residents to live, work, and study in New Zealand for a specified period of time. Here are a few key points to consider:
1. Work Rights: As a holder of a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa, you are generally allowed to work in New Zealand. However, it is important to check the specific conditions of your visa as restrictions may apply depending on the type and duration of the visa you have been granted.
2. Duration: The Partnership-Based Temporary Visa is typically issued for a period of 12 months initially, with the possibility of extensions depending on the circumstances of your partnership.
3. Evidence of Relationship: You will need to provide evidence of your genuine and stable relationship with your partner who is a New Zealand citizen or resident. This may include documents such as joint bank statements, proof of cohabitation, and testimonies from family and friends.
4. Compliance: It is important to comply with the conditions of your visa, including any work restrictions or other requirements set out by Immigration New Zealand.
5. Employer Approval: If you wish to work in New Zealand, you may need to secure a valid job offer from an employer who is willing to sponsor your employment.
6. Further Information: For specific details related to your individual circumstances or for updated information on visa requirements, it is recommended to consult the official website of Immigration New Zealand or seek advice from a licensed immigration adviser.
Overall, while a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa does generally allow you to work in New Zealand, it is essential to be aware of the specific conditions and requirements associated with your visa to ensure compliance and a smooth transition to working in the country.
8. Can I study in New Zealand on a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa?
Yes, you can study in New Zealand on a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa. Here’s how you can do this:
1. Enroll in a course: Once you have obtained a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa, you can enroll in a course at an approved education institution in New Zealand.
2. Adhere to visa conditions: Ensure that you comply with all conditions of your visa, including any restrictions on the type and duration of study allowed on your visa.
3. Work rights: Check if your visa allows you to work part-time while studying. Some partnership visas may include work rights for the partner, which can help support your studies.
4. Renewal: If you plan to study for an extended period, make sure to renew your visa before it expires to maintain your legal status in New Zealand.
Overall, it is possible to study in New Zealand on a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa as long as you meet the visa requirements and abide by the rules and regulations set by Immigration New Zealand.
9. What happens if my partner’s visa status changes during the validity of my Partnership-Based Temporary Visa?
If your partner’s visa status changes during the validity of your Partnership-Based Temporary Visa in New Zealand, it is important to take prompt action to address the situation. Here are the steps you should consider:
1. Notify Immigration New Zealand (INZ) about the change in your partner’s visa status as soon as possible. This can be done through their online portal or by contacting them directly.
2. Depending on the nature of the change in your partner’s visa status, your own visa may be affected. INZ will guide you on what steps you need to take to maintain your visa status.
3. You may need to provide updated documentation or information to INZ to support your ongoing partnership-based visa application.
4. If your partner’s visa status change impacts your ability to meet the visa requirements, you may need to explore alternative visa options or seek advice from an immigration advisor.
5. Failure to address changes in your partner’s visa status promptly can result in visa complications or potential visa cancellations for both parties.
Overall, communication with INZ and proactively addressing any changes in your partner’s visa status is crucial to ensure compliance with visa regulations and maintain your visa validity in New Zealand.
10. Can I include dependent children in my Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application?
Yes, you can include dependent children in your Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application for New Zealand. To do so, you will need to provide detailed information about your dependent children in your visa application form (Form INZ 1198). This includes their personal details, such as names, dates of birth, and passport information. You must also demonstrate that you have legal custody or guardianship of your dependent children and that they meet the necessary health and character requirements for entry into New Zealand. Additionally, you will need to provide evidence of your relationship with your dependent children, such as birth certificates or adoption papers. It is important to ensure that all required documentation is complete and accurate to increase the chances of a successful visa application for both you and your dependent children.
11. Can I travel in and out of New Zealand on a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa?
Yes, individuals holding a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa for New Zealand are typically allowed to travel in and out of the country multiple times during the validity of their visa. However, there are certain conditions that need to be met for re-entry:
1. Your visa must be valid at the time of exiting and re-entering New Zealand.
2. You must comply with the visa conditions, including maintaining a genuine and stable relationship with your partner who is a New Zealand citizen or resident.
3. You must also comply with any border control requirements, such as holding a valid passport and meeting health and character requirements upon re-entry.
It is important to always check the specific conditions and requirements of your visa to ensure smooth travel in and out of New Zealand.
12. What are the medical requirements for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application?
1. The medical requirements for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application in New Zealand involve providing evidence of good health. Applicants are usually required to undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician. The examination typically includes a physical assessment, medical history review, and may involve chest X-rays and blood tests.
2. Additionally, applicants must meet certain health requirements set by Immigration New Zealand to ensure that they do not pose a risk to public health or impose significant costs on the country’s health services. Individuals with communicable diseases that are deemed a risk to public health or who require expensive medical treatment may not meet the health requirements for the visa.
3. It is important for applicants to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions and provide accurate information about their health status during the visa application process. Failure to meet the health requirements or provide misleading information about one’s health could result in the visa being refused. Applicants may be required to provide further medical information or undergo additional tests if necessary to assess their eligibility for the Partnership-Based Temporary Visa in New Zealand.
13. What are the character requirements for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application?
The character requirements for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application in New Zealand are crucial for assessing the suitability of the applicant to enter and stay in the country. These requirements include:
1. Good Character: Applicants must demonstrate they are of good character and do not have a criminal record.
2. Honesty: Providing accurate and truthful information is essential.
3. Clear Intentions: The applicant must have genuine intentions to enter New Zealand for the purpose of partnership.
4. Compliance: Demonstrating compliance with New Zealand laws and regulations.
Additionally, applicants may need to provide police certificates or other evidence to prove their character meets the standards set by Immigration New Zealand. Failure to meet these character requirements may result in the application being declined. It is crucial for applicants to carefully review and adhere to these requirements when applying for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa in New Zealand.
14. Can I apply for residency in New Zealand based on a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa?
Yes, you may be eligible to apply for residency in New Zealand based on holding a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa. To do this, you typically need to meet certain criteria set by Immigration New Zealand, such as having been living together with your partner in a genuine and stable relationship for a specified period. This period is usually at least 12 months. Additionally, you may need to provide evidence of your relationship, such as joint financial commitments, shared living arrangements, and support from family and friends.
If you meet the requirements and your partnership is considered genuine, you may be able to transition from a temporary visa to a resident visa through the partnership category. It is essential to carefully read and understand the specific requirements outlined by Immigration New Zealand and provide comprehensive documentation to support your application for residency based on your Partnership-Based Temporary Visa.
15. What happens if my relationship breaks down while on a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa?
If your relationship breaks down while on a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa in New Zealand, it is crucial to inform Immigration New Zealand (INZ) about the situation as soon as possible. Your visa status may be affected upon the dissolution of the partnership, and you could be at risk of breaching visa conditions. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Notify INZ: You must notify INZ about the breakdown of your partnership and discuss your options moving forward.
2. Visa status: Depending on the circumstances of the breakup, INZ may allow you to remain in New Zealand until your current visa expires, or they may grant you a different type of visa.
3. Variation of conditions: You may need to apply for a variation of conditions on your visa or apply for a new visa based on different grounds if your partnership ends.
4. Conditional requirements: If your visa was granted based on your partnership, you may need to demonstrate that you meet other visa criteria if you wish to remain in New Zealand.
5. Seek legal advice: It is advisable to seek legal advice from a professional immigration advisor or lawyer to understand your rights and options in this situation.
Overall, communication with INZ and seeking professional advice are essential steps to take if your relationship breaks down while on a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa in New Zealand.
16. Can I convert my Partnership-Based Temporary Visa to a work visa or residence visa?
Yes, it is possible to convert a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa to a work visa or residence visa in New Zealand under certain conditions:
1. Work Visa: If you are in a genuine and stable relationship with your partner who holds New Zealand residency or citizenship, you may be eligible to apply for a Work Visa based on partnership. This visa allows you to work in New Zealand while your partner supports your application.
2. Residence Visa: If your relationship is genuine and stable and meets the requirements for partnership under New Zealand immigration law, you may be able to apply for a Residence Visa based on partnership. This visa would provide you with the opportunity to live and work in New Zealand permanently as a resident.
It is important to note that the eligibility criteria for converting your Partnership-Based Temporary Visa to a work or residence visa can vary, and it is recommended to seek advice from an immigration advisor or consultant to understand your specific circumstances and options.
17. What are the conditions of a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa for New Zealand?
The conditions of a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa for New Zealand are as follows:
1. Genuine and Stable Relationship: The applicant must be in a genuine and stable partnership with a New Zealand citizen or resident.
2. Minimum Relationship Duration: The relationship must have been ongoing for at least 12 months prior to the visa application.
3. Evidence of Partnership: The applicant needs to provide substantial evidence of the partnership, such as joint financial commitments, living arrangements, and social activities.
4. Health and Character Requirements: The applicant must meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements.
5. Financial Support: The partner in New Zealand must demonstrate the ability to financially support the applicant during their stay in the country.
6. Temporary Stay Only: The Partnership-Based Temporary Visa allows the applicant to stay in New Zealand for a specified period, usually up to 24 months.
7. No Work Limitations: The visa may allow the applicant to work in New Zealand without restrictions, depending on the specific conditions of the visa.
8. Compliance with Visa Conditions: The applicant must comply with all visa conditions, including not engaging in any activities that are prohibited under the visa regulations.
It is essential for applicants to meet all these conditions in order to be eligible for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa for New Zealand.
18. Can my partner sponsor me for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa if they are a New Zealand citizen or resident?
Yes, your partner who is a New Zealand citizen or resident can sponsor you for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa. In order to be eligible for this visa category, there are specific requirements that must be met:
1. Relationship Requirement: You must be in a genuine and stable relationship with your partner, and be able to provide evidence of this through documents such as joint bank accounts, shared living arrangements, or a history of communication.
2. Eligibility of Sponsor: Your partner must be a New Zealand citizen or resident and be willing to sponsor you for the visa. They should also meet any financial requirements set by Immigration New Zealand to demonstrate their ability to support you during your stay in New Zealand.
3. Application Process: You will need to complete Form INZ 1198 for the Partnership-Based Temporary Visa, providing all required information and supporting documents to prove the validity of your relationship and your eligibility for the visa.
Overall, as long as you meet the criteria outlined by Immigration New Zealand and can demonstrate that your relationship is genuine, your New Zealand citizen or resident partner can indeed sponsor you for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa.
19. Are there any specific requirements for same-sex couples applying for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa?
Yes, New Zealand recognizes and respects same-sex relationships for the purpose of partnership-based temporary visas. Specific requirements for same-sex couples applying for this visa include:
1. Proof of a genuine and stable relationship: Same-sex couples need to provide evidence of their committed relationship, such as joint financial commitments, shared living arrangements, and mutual commitment to each other’s well-being.
2. Legal recognition of the relationship: If the relationship is legally recognized in the country where it took place, documentation such as marriage certificates or civil union certificates should be included in the application.
3. Proof of ongoing communication and contact: It is important for same-sex couples to demonstrate that they have maintained communication and contact with each other, even if they are living apart due to circumstances like work or other obligations.
4. Meeting health and character requirements: Both partners need to meet New Zealand’s health and character requirements, which may include medical examinations and police clearances.
Overall, same-sex couples are assessed the same way as opposite-sex couples when applying for a Partnership-Based Temporary Visa in New Zealand. It is important to provide strong evidence of the relationship and meet all the necessary criteria to increase the chances of a successful application.
20. How can I appeal if my Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application is declined?
If your Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application is declined, you can appeal the decision to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal (IPT) in New Zealand. Here are the steps you can take to appeal the decision:
1. Lodging an appeal: You must lodge your appeal with the IPT within 42 days of receiving the decision on your visa application.
2. Grounds for appeal: You need to have valid grounds for appeal, such as errors in the decision-making process or new evidence that was not considered in the initial application.
3. Representation: You can choose to represent yourself or appoint a legal representative to assist you with the appeal process.
4. Preparing your case: You should gather all relevant documents, evidence, and information to support your appeal.
5. Attending the hearing: The IPT will schedule a hearing where you can present your case and respond to any questions from the Tribunal.
6. Decision: The IPT will review the information and make a decision on your appeal. This decision is final and cannot be further appealed.
By following these steps and presenting a strong case, you may have a chance of successfully appealing the decision to decline your Partnership-Based Temporary Visa application.