If you’re the partner (spouse or de facto partner) of a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, a partnership work visa can enable you to work for any employer (or be self-employed) in New Zealand while your relationship continues to develop.
Partnership work visas typically act as a “bridge” to permanent residence by enabling you to live, work and study in New Zealand until you and your partner meet the 12 month “living together” requirement for Partnership Residence.
While there’s no minimum “living together” period under this category, it’s important to understand the various criteria that Immigration New Zealand apply for determining whether your relationship is genuine and stable. With a number of requirements to satisfy, being the partner or spouse of a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident or work permit holder does not automatically guarantee you a work visa. Your application requires attention to detail and careful compliance with Immigration policy requirements.