Partner Work vs Partner Resident: which New Zealand visa is right for you?
Two partner routes: the Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa lets you live and work here temporarily, while the Resident Visa grants permanent settlement once relationship criteria are met.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa (Partner Work) | Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa (Partner Resident) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Permanent / PR |
| Who it's for | For partners of New Zealand citizens or residents who want to live and work in New Zealand. | For partners of New Zealand citizens or residents seeking permanent residence based on the relationship. |
| Government cost | ~NZ$750 including levy | ~NZ$5,860 including levy |
| Processing time | ~4-8 weeks | ~6-12 months |
| Length of stay | Up to 2 years | Permanent (indefinite resident visa) |
| Where to apply | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand | Online, from outside or inside New Zealand |
| Work rights | Work for any employer in any role (open work rights) | Work for any employer in any role |
| Pathway to PR | Often a precursor to the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa. | Grants residence; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship. |
Which is right for you?
Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa (Partner Work)
For partners of New Zealand citizens or residents who want to live and work in New Zealand.
Full Partner Work guide →Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa (Partner Resident)
For partners of New Zealand citizens or residents seeking permanent residence based on the relationship.
Full Partner Resident guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Partner Work or Partner Resident?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa (Partner Work) is the lowest at ~NZ$750 including levy. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, Partner Work or Partner Resident?
Indicatively Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa (Partner Work) is the quickest at ~4-8 weeks. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
Which of these leads to permanent residence?
Partner Resident is permanent. Partner Work: Often a precursor to the Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa. Partner Resident: Grants residence; can lead to a Permanent Resident Visa and citizenship.
What's the main difference between Partner Work and Partner Resident?
Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa (Partner Work) is for for partners of New Zealand citizens or residents who want to live and work in New Zealand. Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa (Partner Resident) is for for partners of New Zealand citizens or residents seeking permanent residence based on the relationship.