Bring Your Partner to New Zealand on an AEWV: Complete Guide

Planning to bring your partner to New Zealand?

If you’re in New Zealand on an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), your partner may also be able to join you. Depending on your job, income and visa conditions, they may be eligible for a Partner of a Worker Work Visa or a Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa.

This guide explains the different partner visa options, who may be eligible and how to apply. We'll also help you find more detailed guidance for each visa type.

Yes, they can. If you hold an eligible AEWV, your partner can apply for their own visa to live with you in New Zealand.

The type of visa they can apply for depends on your occupation, income and employment conditions. Some partners can work in New Zealand, while others can visit but won't have work rights.

Good to know: Your partner must apply for their own visa. Being granted an AEWV doesn't automatically give your partner the right to live or work in New Zealand. 

Which partner visa is right for your situation?

The right visa depends on what your partner plans to do in New Zealand and whether you meet the requirements to support their application.

If your partner wants to work while they're in New Zealand, they'll usually need a Partner of a Worker Work Visa. If they only plan to live with you during your stay, a Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa may be the right option.

Learn more about the requirements for Partner of a Worker Work Visa and Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa.

Can you support your partner's visa?

Whether you can support your partner's visa depends on your AEWV. Immigration New Zealand considers factors such as your occupation, income and visa conditions.

Need the full eligibility rules? Read our guide to AEWV Partner Visa requirements.

If your partner is eligible, they can apply for their visa online through Immigration New Zealand. Before they apply, make sure you've chosen the right visa and prepared all the required documents.

Choose the right visa

Start by deciding whether your partner needs a Partner of a Worker Work Visa or a Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa. The right visa depends on your AEWV, income and what your partner plans to do in New Zealand.

Prepare your documents

Gather all the documents you'll need before starting the application. This usually includes identity documents, relationship evidence and supporting information about your AEWV.

Apply online

Complete the online application through Immigration Online and upload your supporting documents. Your partner will also need to pay the application fee when they submit their application.

Wait for a decision

Immigration New Zealand will assess the application and contact your partner if they need more information. Processing times vary depending on the type of partner visa and whether the application is complete.

Receive your visa

If the application is approved, your partner will receive an eVisa showing their visa conditions. They can then travel to New Zealand or continue staying in the country if they're already there on another eligible visa.

Yes, your dependent children may also be able to join you in New Zealand. The type of visa they can apply for depends on their age, whether they plan to study, and whether you meet the income requirements to support their application.

Depending on your circumstances, your children may be able to study at school or stay with you while you're living and working in New Zealand.

Your partner's visa is linked to your AEWV. If your visa or employment changes, it may affect your partner's current or future visa options.

You change jobs

Changing employers, jobs or work locations doesn't automatically affect your partner's current visa. However, if your new job changes your eligibility to support their visa, it could affect future applications or renewals.

Learn more: AEWV Job Change guide

Your AEWV expires

If your AEWV expires, your partner's visa may also come to an end. Before your visa expires, it's important to understand your next visa options so your family can continue living together in New Zealand.

Learn more: AEWV extension guide

You apply for another AEWV

If you're eligible for another AEWV, your partner may also be able to apply for a new partner visa. Your eligibility to support their application will be assessed based on the requirements that apply at the time you apply.

You become eligible for residence

If you later qualify for a New Zealand resident visa, your partner may also have a pathway to residence. The options available will depend on your visa and your family's circumstances.

Learn more: AEWV pathways to permanent residence

Bringing your partner to New Zealand is just one step in your family's migration journey. Whether you're preparing your AEWV application, planning your partner's next move or thinking about your long-term future together, IDP can help you explore your options with confidence.

We can help you:

• Understand your family's visa options.

• Prepare for IELTS if you need it for your AEWV.

• Explore study options for your partner.

• Find education pathways for your family.

• Plan your long-term migration goals.

Wherever you are in your journey, IDP is here to help you plan your next step.

Can my partner come to New Zealand on my AEWV?

Yes, if you meet the requirements to support their application, your partner may be able to apply for either a Partner of a Worker Work Visa or a Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa.

Can my partner work in New Zealand?

Yes, but only if they're granted a Partner of a Worker Work Visa. If they hold a Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa, they can't work in New Zealand.

What's the difference between a Partner Work Visa and a Partner Visitor Visa?

A Partner of a Worker Work Visa allows your partner to live and work in New Zealand. A Partner of a Worker Visitor Visa allows them to live with you but doesn't include work rights.

How do I know which partner visa is right?

The right visa depends on your AEWV, your occupation, your income and whether your partner wants to work while they're in New Zealand. Check the eligibility requirements before you apply.

Can my children come with me?

Yes, your dependent children may also be eligible to join you in New Zealand. Depending on your circumstances, they may qualify for a Dependent Child Student Visa or a Child of a Worker Visitor Visa.

Do we need to be married?

No. Immigration New Zealand also recognises de facto relationships and civil unions, as long as you can show your relationship is genuine, stable and that you've been living together.

How long does a partner visa last?

A partner visa is usually granted for the same length of time as your AEWV. The exact duration depends on your visa and your partner's circumstances.

What happens if I change jobs?

Changing jobs doesn't automatically affect your partner's current visa. However, if your new job changes your eligibility to support their visa, it may affect future applications or renewals.

What happens when my AEWV expires?

Your partner's visa will usually expire at the same time as your AEWV. If you apply for another visa or become eligible for residence, your partner may also need to apply for a new visa.

Where can I find the full partner visa requirements?

Our AEWV Partner Visa requirements guide explains the eligibility criteria, required documents and supporting evidence in more detail, so you can prepare your application with confidence.