WF5 Work visas for partners of holders of military visas

Partners (see E4.1.20) of people granted, or deemed to be granted, a military visa (see M1) may be granted work visas and entry permission for the same period as the military visa is held, or deemed to be held.

1. Applicants must meet temporary entry class requirements for lodging an application as set out at E4, bona fide requirements as set out at E5, and health and character requirements as set out at A4.5 and A5.5, but are exempt from:
   1. meeting funds or sponsorship requirements; and
   2. meeting onward travel requirements; and
   3. providing a job offer.
2. Applicants must prove to the satisfaction of an immigration officer that:
   1. they are living together with their partner in a genuine and stable partnership at the time the application is made; and
   2. they comply with the minimum requirements for recognition of partnerships (see E4.5.15 and F2.15); and
   3. their partner supports the application.
3. Evidence of the applicant’s relationship to the military visa holder must be provided in the following forms:
   1. evidence of their relationship with their partner, and
   2. evidence that demonstrates they are living together with that partner in a genuine and stable partnership at the time the application is made (E4.5.35 sets out the types of evidence that are required).
4. Before granting a work visa an immigration officer must be satisfied that the applicant’s partner:
   1. holds a military visa; or
   2. is eligible to be granted a military visa; or
   3. is deemed to be granted a military visa.
5. Any work visas granted under these instructions will:
   1. be endorsed with conditions that allow the holder to undertake any work in any occupation and any location; and
   2. allow travel to New Zealand on multiple journeys.
6. Self-employment is permitted however holders of visas granted under these instructions are restricted from employing others, whether directly, or indirectly via a business they operate as an owner.

Effective 20/04/2026