Partner of a Student Visa
Work or Visitor Visa Options
If your partner is studying in New Zealand or has applied for a Student Visa, you may be able to apply for a Visitor Visa or a Work Visa based on your relationship.
Work Visa Eligibility
You can apply for a partner-based work visa if your partner is:
Studying a Level 9 or 10 qualification (Master’s or Doctoral level), or
Studying a Level 7 or 8 qualification listed on the Green List of occupations.
If approved, your visa will be valid for the same length as your partner’s Student Visa, and you’ll be allowed to live and work in New Zealand.
Key Requirements
To qualify:
You must be in a genuine and stable relationship, and have lived together (proof is required).
You must meet health and character requirements.
Your partner must support your application.
You may also be able to bring dependent children, depending on your visa type.
Need Help Applying?
Visa rules and required documents can be complex. Our Immigration Team can guide you through the process, ensure your eligibility, and help you submit a strong application.
Contact us today for advice on your visa options and to get started.
Q- A
Q- Can a spouse of a student visa holder work in New Zealand?
Yes — in some cases.
If your partner is studying in New Zealand on a student visa, you may be eligible to apply for a partner of a student work visa, allowing you to live and work in New Zealand.
To qualify, your partner must be studying:
A Level 9 or 10 qualification (Master’s degree or Doctoral degree), or
An eligible Level 7 or 8 qualification that is on the Green List (e.g. certain qualifications in engineering, IT, or healthcare).
You do not need a job offer to apply for this visa.
Once granted, this visa allows you to work for any employer in almost any job in New Zealand while your partner is studying.
Q- Can my partner work on my student visa?
Yes — but only under certain conditions.
If you're in New Zealand on a student visa, your partner can apply for a work visa if:
You are studying a Level 9 or 10 qualification (Master’s or PhD), or
You are studying an eligible Level 7 or 8 qualification that appears on the Green List (in-demand qualifications like engineering, IT, or healthcare).
If approved, your partner will be granted a Partner of a Student Work Visa, allowing them to work in New Zealand.
Get in touch to discuss more options. Let's find you a pathway to NZ.
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