WF2.1 Instructions on duration of visa for partners of New Zealand citizens or residence class visa holders (29/11/2010)

1. Provided an immigration officer is satisfied the principal applicant and New Zealand citizen or residence class visa holder partner are living together in a partnership that is genuine and stable the duration of any visa granted under these instructions is dependent on the duration of their partnership.
2. If, the partnership has existed for less than 12 months at the time the application is assessed then the first visa granted under these instructions must not exceed 12 months from date of arrival in New Zealand. Further visas may be granted upon application for up to a maximum of two years from the date of arrival in New Zealand if:
   1. during the validity of the first visa an application for a residence class visa under Partnership Category is made and the principal applicant wishes to remain in New Zealand pending a decision on their application; or
   2. the couple wish to spend more time in New Zealand and an immigration officer is satisfied they are still living together in a genuine and stable partnership.
3. If the partnership has existed for 12 months or more at the time the application is assessed, then a work visa may be granted for the length of the couple's intended stay, up to a maximum of 2 years from the date of their arrival in New Zealand.

Effective 29/11/2010