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How to Write a Convincing Cover Letter for a NZ Partnership Visa Application

May 18, 2023

How to Write a Convincing Cover Letter for a NZ Partnership Visa Application

Applying for a partnership-based visa can be a lengthy and complicated process. However, one of the most important parts of your application is the cover letter.

The cover letter helps you explain your relationship, demonstrate how you meet the criteria, and persuade Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to grant you a visa.

Many applicants think that writing a brief letter stating their connection and love for their partner is enough, but that’s usually not the case. In reality, the cover letter allows you to showcase your relationship and convince the INZ case officer that your relationship is genuine and committed. Hence writing a compelling cover letter is crucial.

In this blog post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write a convincing cover letter for a partnership-based visa application. By following our tips and tricks, you will be able to structure your letter, address potential issues, and include all the necessary information to make your application a success.

  • Understand the eligibility criteria:

Before you begin writing your cover letter, it is essential to understand the eligibility requirements for your partnership visa application. You should read the INZ website to determine the main requirements for your visa category. Be sure to review the requirements carefully so that you can tailor your letter to meet the specific criteria.

For example, if you are applying for a partnership-based resident visa, you need to demonstrate that you have lived together for at least 12 months before applying for the visa.

  • Structure your letter:

In the cover letter, you need to describe your relationship with your partner and how it has developed over time.

Your cover letter should consist of four main parts: an introduction, your relationship history, how you meet the eligibility criteria, and a conclusion.

Start with an attention-grabbing introduction that sets out the purpose of your letter and your reasons for applying for the visa. Next, provide a detailed account of your relationship, how you met, and your plans for the future. The third part of your letter should answer how you meet the criteria for your visa category. You should be explicit in demonstrating how your relationship meets each criterion. Finally, conclude your letter by summarizing why you believe that you and your partner meet the requirements for the visa category.

  • Include supporting evidence:

Your cover letter should include any supporting evidence that demonstrates your relationship meets the criteria for the visa category.

It’s not enough to say that you are in a committed relationship ; you must demonstrate it with evidence. For example, you can provide photographs, proof of joint bank accounts, or joint utility bills that show that you have been living together. You should also explain each piece of evidence and how it helps to support your claim. Be sure to provide a clear and concise explanation so the reader understands each document’s relevance.

Failing to provide evidence to support your claims can harm your application and lead to a visa refusal.

  • Address potential issues:

If you anticipate there may be any potential issues with your application; you should address them in your cover letter. This may include any previous visa refusals or convictions. You should explain the circumstances surrounding the issue and how you have taken steps to rectify the situation. It is important to address these issues proactively, as it demonstrates your transparency and willingness to comply with the relevant immigration instructions of INZ.

  • Proofread and edit your letter:

Your cover letter should be well-written, clear, and concise. Be sure to proofread and edit your letter carefully before submitting your application. Look for any grammatical errors or spelling mistakes, and ensure that your letter flows logically from one point to the next.

Writing a convincing cover letter for your partnership visa application is crucial in your visa journey. By following our step-by-step guide, you can structure your letter, address any potential issues, and provide the necessary evidence to demonstrate that you and your partner meet the requirements for the visa category. Remember to tailor your letter to meet the specific criteria and to proofread and edit your letter before submitting your application. With determination, effort, and the right amount of preparation, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your dreams of living in New Zealand with your partner.

A common mistake individuals make is not seeking professional advice when writing cover letters. It’s best to seek advice from a Licensed Immigration Adviser (LIA), like us, who can guide you throughout the application process. The LIA can assist you in drafting a compelling cover letter that addresses all the requirements of the partnership-based visa category and provides evidence to support your claims. Seeking professional advice can improve your chances of a positive outcome.

So, are you and your partner dreaming of a life together in New Zealand? Let  Immigration Advisers New Zealand Ltd  help you! Our expert Licensed Immigration Advisers can guide you through the visa application process and improve your chances of success. Start your partnership-based visa application today by clicking here

You can also contact us at [email protected] or call on +64 09 3790219.

Author Details

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Vandana Rai

(lia 201400900).

Vandana Rai is a Senior Licensed Immigration Adviser and has built a reputation around her rare set of skills, which could be considered ideal for her legal profession.

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How To Master a Cover Letter for New Zealand [Examples & Tips]

cover letter for work visa application nz

Although you might don’t want to, yet in most cases, you need to include a cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. NZ cover letter is similar to other countries; it should show the company why you are the right candidate for the job. Take your time to write a personal and customized letter. Never send the generic one; this can ruin your application from the start.

A cover letter is a monumental part of your job application in New Zealand. A good cover letter should answer the main question, which is why the company should hire you. Additionally, it must provide information on how you can bring value to the company and help them with the challenges. A cover letter should showcase the relevant skills and experience you have.

In most cases, businesses and recruiters in New Zealand will require you to attach a customized cover letter. And it’s a good thing for you. In the end, the cover letter is a claim for the role – it’s your chance to highlight and match your experience against the job description and to clearly state what you can offer your potential employer.

If you are looking for a job in New Zealand, I would highly recommend going through the Job Hunter’s handbook made by Careers.govt.nz.

Table of Contents

Is a cover letter necessary in New Zealand?

Unfortunately, yes, you need to include a customized cover letter when applying for a job in New Zealand. Almost  half of the recruiters reject applications without a cover letter. A high-quality, customized cover letter tells the manager you are a dedicated professional. It should be only a page long.

A resume or CV alone can show your achievements and qualifications, but it can’t tell the story and explain why you choose this company in particular. That’s why we need a cover letter. It’s also a great tool to show your personality and motivation. It must show the employer you are an asset to their company.

Are you resigning from your previous job? Read how to write a proper resignation letter .

Resignation Letter in New Zealand (Examples + Template)

Tips and guidance for a winner cover letter

So what is a cover letter, and why it’s so important for your job application in New Zealand?

  • Cover letter is your first point of contact with employers .
  • It should fit on one page .
  • It needs to explain why you want this job .
  • It should relate to your CV .
  • It should describe your relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments .
  • It should show the evidence that you have researched the company and that you are the right candidate.

If you follow these simple statements, you should already be able to create a decent letter. Yet, if you want more, read this article to the end and follow the advice.

The winning tactic here is focusing on  them , not just on  you,  which will ultimately make you stand out from other applicants

When writing your cover letter, pay attention to the following:

  • Do very extensive research about the company. Show it in the cover letter.
  • Reflect on the company’s vision.
  • Highlight specific achievements and successes that show you can address the challenges the employer is facing.
  • Show your personality.
  • Prove that you understand the challenges of the company.
  • Explain your motivation and fit for the position.
  • Presents how your skills and experience as a solution for the company.
  • Create a list of job keywords that are mentioned in the job ad. Include them in the cover letter.
  • Address the cover letter to the right person, e.g., the hiring manager or recruiter
  • Be clear and concise
  • Have a structure in the letter – beginning, middle, end
  • Use active words to describe your work – accomplished, achieved, led, created, increased, identified
  • Finish with a call to action and ask for a meeting.
  • Try to be funny
  • Send a generic cover letter — customize each one for the specific job.
  • Forget your full contact details
  • Generic and boring opening paragraph
  • Copy-paste from the CV or job ad
  • Start every sentence with “I”
  • Write more than one page

Looking for a job? Check out the best recruitment agencies in New Zealand .

Best Recruitment Agencies in New Zealand 2024

1. Research about the company and position

cover letter for work visa application nz

Your knowledge about the company you are applying to work for is crucial. You must also know all the essential details about the advertised position and how your skills and experience fit in.

When someone reads your cover letter, they must be sure you are the right candidate for this position and for this company. That’s why you must include as many tailored to the job ad details as possible (yet not too many).

So, look for information on the company, its key products or services, its mission, and anything else that gives you an insight into them. Notice the most important details and mention them in the cover letter where appropriate.

You might want to check out the company’s website, its executives’ Twitter feeds, and LinkedIn profiles.

The culture of the organization is vital to note. This will influence your communication style. For instance, you might be more casual with start-ups or advertising agencies but more formal with banks and large corporations.

2. Show how you can help

A company hires you to solve a problem or to help with challenging tasks they are unable to manage. Point out the things you can do for a company and which potential results it might bring. Or maybe you already were challenged with similar tasks? Mention it in your cover letter!

3. Why are you a perfect fit?

The second paragraph of your cover letter should give a clear idea to the reader why you are the one and that you will satisfy the company’s specific needs.

Here you should match the keywords mentioned in the job ad with your skills and experience. You also must show the hiring manager why you want this job, not just any job. Include all the enthusiasm and passion you have.

Match your skills with a job ad

Highlight the key skills and qualities in the ad, e.g.:

  • strong written and verbal communication
  • technical skills
  • analytical thinking
  • team player or teamwork
  • problem-solving
  • time management
  • knowledge of software & tools
  • specialized or technical competencies
  • high level of computer competency
  • ability to work well under pressure
  • enthusiasm and initiative
  • excellent customer service

Include them in the cover letter with real-life examples.

Connections matter in New Zealand

cover letter for work visa application nz

About 70% of all jobs in New Zealand are so-called hidden. They are simply not advertised because hiring managers seek candidates within the company, their circle of colleagues, and people they know before they post a job ad. For that reason, having connections in New Zealand is very crucial.

You are more likely to be invited to an interview if you know a friend of a friend and they got a reference they you rather than just based on your qualifications and experience.

That might be good news for some and bad news for others. Nonetheless, it’s highly recommended to start networking as soon as you land in New Zealand. Join groups, participate in social and professional events, work on your Linkedin profile, and just be proactive.

And if you are lucky to know someone in the company you are applying to work for, mention it in the first sentence or two of your cover letter.

Don’t forget to include

Your cover letter shouldn’t miss these small but key elements:

Your personal value and personality

While skills and experiences are indeed critical, New Zealanders love human connection. If they find you an interesting and nice person, they are more likely to move forward with your application.

Try to be personal in your cover letter; tell them more unique things about you and your experience. Avoid being general at any cost.

Reflect on your experience that relates to the job ad and company profile. What challenges have you faced, and how did you solve them? You also want to provide evidence of the things you mention by using concrete examples, situations, numbers, and facts. For example:

“During the last quarter, my company was challenged by the supply shortage of …We have had 200% more orders than we can ever fulfill. To solve this problem, I was on the lookout for new suppliers for several weeks; after dozens of selling calls, I finally managed to sign a contract with our best supplier so far. I will never come across them otherwise.”

Your enthusiasm

In many cases, people don’t get hired because they aren’t enthusiastic and convincing enough. So, it’s not the lack of skills; it’s your desire and how you show it. If you make it as if it was your dream job, you are more likely to be invited. Avoid at any cost writing in a manner as you are doing a company a favor by working for them.

Hiring managers even say, “Enthusiasm conveys personality.” Some tips that help you to point out your enthusiasm include:

  • Show that you have thought about the job and why you would like to work for them.
  • Why is this company so brilliant? What they do the best? How they stand out?
  • Mention their reputation, performance, and product.
  • Remember, it’s about what you can do for them, not what they can do for you.

NZ cover letter structure

Following the formal structure when piecing together a cover letter is as much as important as its content. So, make sure you stick to New Zealand standards. Here is an example:

Dear [Ms. or Mr. Surname],

  • Opening – Explain why you are writing this letter (add an interesting one-liner summarizing why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to their business.)
  • Explain your interest in the job, show knowledge about the company and position
  • Demonstrate your skills and experience related to the job
  • Explain why you will fit into this role and which value you will bring to the company
  • Sign off and offer them to contact you

Yours sincerely,

Your name – Andrew Black.

Make sure you check your cover letter via Grammarly for spelling and grammar mistakes!

Cover letter introduction

The introduction sentences will determine whether the hiring manager will read on or skip your resume. Start your cover letter in an unconventional way and hold the reader’s interest. Here are some tips for a stellar introduction:

  • Highlight your achievements in the industry.
  • Display your passion and enthusiasm.
  • Mention some names and numbers.

A no-go cover letter introduction looks like this:

In response to your posting for the Digital Marketing Manager position, I would like to express my interest in participating in the recruitment process. As a digital marketing manager with 8+ years of experience, I am optimistic that I would succeed in this role.

Top cover letter example

Since you already know how to write the header, here is only the main part of the cover letter.

” I am writing regarding the Marketing Manager position you currently have open. As a marketer with over 5 years of experience managing small and larger teams, I would love to take a challenge and work for your company. Marketing is my passion, so it’s to achieve monthly goals, generate new leads & sales, and train the team for success.

In my previous role at (company name), I reached not only the set marketing goals but exceeded them by 80% and, in some months, even 120%. Your company (name) already has brilliant strategies in place, you use paid advertising, social media, and outreach, but I would add other channels to ramp up the reach and revenue. I am experienced and knowledgeable in the SEO scene; hence we can explore new opportunities for your business in this area of marketing.

My previous team of marketing assistants was great! I love to work with people and guide them in our current strategies. At the same time, responsibility for people does not make me stressed or scared but ignites my motivation to bring even better results so we can all be proud as a team.

Besides, my Master’s degree in Business taught me fundamental knowledge about organizations, management, strategy, and agility, which I would be happy to apply when working for (company).

It will be great to talk in person one day. You can reach me at 123456789 any time or via email at [email protected] to arrange an interview. Thank you for your consideration, I look forward to hearing from you.

Cover letter for a visa application

Im most cases, Immigration New Zealand, will request a cover or so-called motivational letter together with your visa application. This is generally a less complex document that you would write for the employer.

Your cover letter for a visa should include:

  • Reasons why you are moving or visiting New Zealand
  • How are you going to support yourself
  • Demonstration of how you meet the criteria for the visa

The content of the cover letter will vary depending on the visa type you are applying for. If it’s, for instance, to join a partner in New Zealand, you should include your relationship to them and explain it briefly.

Therefore, your cover letter should target your visa category’s main requirements. 

When I was applying for a student visa, my cover letter described why I decided to study in New Zealand and what are my plans after my studies. Immigration New Zealand also mentioned in their requirements that the cover letter must include these details.

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How to write an NZ cover letter (with examples and templates)

Along with your CV, a cover letter is essential to any NZ job application. Let's get you started.

Using a cover letter template and examples are a great way to get started

Every New Zealand job application should include a cover letter.

This document is key to showing an employer you’re serious about their vacancy, and for demonstrating what you bring to the table . Despite its importance, many people aren’t sure how to write a cover letter – and their applications suffer as a result.

That’s why we’ve created this guide, giving you advice on everything from what to include, to how to lay it out.

We’ve also snuck in a few examples to make life even easier for you … aren’t we nice?

cover letter for work visa application nz

Cover letters vs. CVs: what’s the difference?

To understand the role cover letters play in job applications, it’s important to realise how they differ from CVs:

1. Purpose:

CVs give a broad picture of you as an applicant – providing details such as educational background and employment history . By contrast, a cover letter targets why you want this specific role, and how your skills and experience make you a great candidate.

While there will be areas of overlap as you select qualifications or abilities to draw out in your cover letter, it definitely should not be an elongated version of your CV.

An NZ cover letter should be no longer than one page, while CVs are usually between one and two.

The most obvious visual difference between these documents and CVs hinges around bullet points.

While your CV should be a bullet point bonanza, cover letters favour full sentences. That’s not to say you can’t have any bullets in a cover letter, just use them more sparingly.

It’s not always easy to know what to put in your cover letter.

You should include a cover letter with every job application.

What to include in a cover letter

1. your contact info, the date and the business’ address.

At the top of your cover letter should be:

  • Your full name, contact details and home address
  • The date you submit the application
  • The business’ postal address

It should look like this:

Here's how to start your cover letter.

Head up your cover letter like this.

2. Your opener

People worry about how to start a cover letter , but there’s a simple formula and structure for getting this right:

Make it personal : start with ‘dear’, and address it to a person – i.e. the hiring manager. If their name isn’t in the job listing, try a good old fashioned stalk of the company website, or ring the business and find out. ‘To whom it may concern’ is a no go.

Make it clear : organisations often list multiple vacancies at a time, so make it obvious which position you’re applying for. A sentence like, ‘I’m writing to apply for the Marketing Assistant role, as advertised on Trade Me Jobs’, will do the trick.

Make it punchy : next, add a snappy one-liner summing up why you’re interested in the role and what you’d bring to their business. Remember, you can go into more detail in the interview itself. For example:

You have options when choosing your cover letter intro.

3. Why them

A common cover letter mistake is to only focus on yourself. Before choosing you, employers want to know why you’re choosing them. This helps sort candidates who are genuinely passionate about their organisation from those who are mass applying to anything and everything.

Warning : this section is not about inflating the hiring manager's ego by flattering the company – be positive, but be thoughtful.

Your cover letter should tell the hiring manager why you want to work there.

Now, it’s time to sell yourself.

This section of your cover letter is where you highlight your most relevant skills and experience.

You can draw on anything from previous work experience to certificates and qualifications. The important bit is linking whatever you mention to the job – simply listing skills is not the answer.

To do this effectively, you need to carefully study the job ad and identify what capabilities the employer values most. If your Trade Me Jobs Profile is up-to-date, you can then quickly skim your skills and experience to find those which most closely match the job description.

Top tip: the more detail you can give, the better. Helped raise sales? Great. Helped raise sales by 6%? Even better.

Use your cover letter to highlight core relevant skills.

If you want to add some extra skills or information to this section, a bullet point list is a good option. Note : only do this after introducing your headline examples in full sentence form, as above, and keep your list to three or four concise bullets.

5. Signing off

The end of your cover letter should (politely) prompt the reader to get in touch with you to arrange the next steps. Make sure you end on a high, and continue the energy from earlier in your closing sentence, for example:

Sign off your cover letter with a call to action.

How to format a cover letter

With your content sorted, it’s now about nailing the visuals. Cover letters are usually easier than CVs in this regard, as they’re laid out like a traditional letter. However, there are a few things to bear in mind:

  • What font should I use? Keep it simple, and the same as on your CV. If your font is hard to read, or too small, the letter will end up in the wrong pile.
  • How long should a cover letter be? New Zealand cover letters should be under one page long.
  • Should I use paragraphs? Would you read huge, unbroken chunks of text? We doubt it, so make sure to break up your cover letters into paragraphs.
  • What are the correct cover letter margins? Leave these at their default setting so your cover letter has plenty of blank space, and doesn’t look crowded.

All done? Not quite.

Perhaps the most important stage of cover letter writing is proofreading. After all that hard work, you don’t want a few silly typos or poor punctuation letting you down.

So check it yourself, then get someone else to have a look, then have a final glance.

Once you’re happy, it’s time to attach it to your application, and hit send.

Al Hall

Al Hall is a regular contributor at Trade Me Jobs and Trade Me Property. He’s dedicated to helping people succeed in their aspirations to find their dream job and place to live.

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Mastering the Art of Writing a Convincing Cover Letter for a New Zealand Partnership Visa Application

Mastering the Art of Writing a Convincing Cover Letter for a New Zealand Partnership Visa Application

When it comes to securing a partnership visa in New Zealand, a well-crafted cover letter can significantly enhance your chances of success. A cover letter serves as a powerful tool to showcase your relationship history, eligibility, and commitment to the visa requirements.

Understand the Eligibility Criteria:

Structure your letter:.

  • Introduction: Grab the reader’s attention from the beginning with a captivating introduction. Introduce yourself and your partner, mentioning the purpose of the letter and the visa category you are applying for. It is crucial to create an engaging opening that encourages the immigration officer to continue reading.
  • Relationship History: In this section, provide a detailed account of your relationship. Describe how you and your partner met, the progression of your relationship, and key milestones you have achieved together. Be sure to include personal anecdotes that reflect the strength and commitment of your partnership. Paint a vivid picture of your bond, emphasizing the depth of your emotional connection and shared experiences.
  • Meeting Eligibility Criteria: Address how your relationship meets the eligibility criteria for your specific visa category. This section should be well-researched and tailored to the requirements outlined by New Zealand immigration authorities. Provide evidence that substantiates your claims, such as photographs, joint bank account statements, and shared utility bills. Explain each piece of evidence, highlighting how it supports your eligibility and strengthens your case.

Include Supporting Evidence:

Address potential issues:, proofread and edit your letter:, seeking advice from a licensed immigration adviser (lia):.

Writing a convincing cover letter for a New Zealand partnership visa application is a meticulous process that requires attention to detail, thoroughness, and persuasive storytelling. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can create a compelling narrative that showcases the authenticity and strength of your partnership. Remember to seek advice from a Licensed Immigration Adviser to further enhance your application and increase your chances of a positive outcome. With a well-crafted cover letter and robust supporting evidence, you are on your way to embarking on a new chapter of your life in beautiful New Zealand.

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How to write a great stand out Cover Letter

Our Job Search Coach Jannie Allen shares her insider tips.

Jannie says:

"The cover letter is a claim for the role – it is your chance to highlight and match your experience against the job description and to clearly state what you can offer your potential employer.
It is a targeted single-page document to the person who advertised the position. It is often your first point of contact with an employer/recruiter to get them interested in reading your CV and interviewing you."

Your Cover Letter should show:

- Why you are interested in the role - Your relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments - Evidence that you have researched the company and that you would be a good fit.

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Structuring the Cover Letter:

Before you start the main part of the letter, write your mobile number, email address and Skype ID at the top left-hand side of the letter. Follow this by the date and then write Re: followed by the title of the job you are applying for and a reference number if it’s provided. Check the listing carefully as this reference is often at the end of the ad. Then follow with a greeting, addressing the person by name (if at all possible).
Open with a strong statement giving the reason you are applying for the position.
What you have you been doing, relevant to the role you are applying for. Be skills/achievements focused and focused on what you can bring to the company rather than what the company can do for you.
What kind of person are you (hint: mention your qualities which are aligned to the role)
Your motivation for wanting to settle in NZ and why you want to live in that particular area. Invite the reader to contact you if they have any questions about your application.

Writing the Cover Letter:

Jannie's advice:.

If a contact person is mentioned in the listing, it is recommended that you make a connection, preferably by phoning them, so that you can introduce yourself and ask some questions about the role. That way your application will stand out. ‍

In conclusion, in your cover letter you need to present a strong case for the best matched skills and experience against the job description.

Never send out a generic letter as this is one way to communicate that you have not tried to research the role or the company, and that you are not genuinely interested.

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Anna was worth her weight in gold---she was fantastic at helping me format my CV and search for jobs that suited my skill set. In the end, I got a great job in a great city. Carsten and his team were very thorough and helpful when it came time to apply for and get our visas. They are now helping us with our resident visas, and I'm certain that the process will be the same. I'd recommend them highly.

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The great work done before has surely helped to achieve this quick positive result. NZIC are really professional and know what to do when to do it and how to do it. That is so convenient and efficient! I’m still working with them for the next steps and would like to thank them again for their help and support.  Thank you.  Kind Regards.

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Partnership Work Visa

cover letter for work visa application nz

If you want to learn about Partnership Work Visa , you've come to the right place.

This guide has everything you need to understand the basics of Partnership Work Visa . You'll also find links to useful resources from our blog and video throughout, so you can plan your next steps. If you still have questions, contact Immigration Lawyer NZ .

What is a Partnership Work Visa?

A 'partner work visa' is a broad term that describes a temporary visa based on the relationship with your partner who is able to support your visa.

Such a visa can cover a number of different scenarios. For instance:

  • you may qualify for a work visa if you are the partner of a New Zealander or a resident (also known as "Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa");
  • if your supporting partner is a non-citizen and a non-resident visa holder but instead holds a work visa under visa categories such as an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) , a Post-Study Work Wisa , a Religious Worker Work Visa , or a Military Work Visa, you might be eligible to apply as well (also known as "Partner of a Worker Work Visa");
  • if you are the partner of a student visa holder pursuing specific tertiary-level courses, you may also be eligible (also known as "Partner of a Student Work Visa").

Various scenarios may arise where you find yourself in different living arrangements – perhaps residing together abroad and planning to return to live in New Zealand as a couple, recently entering into an arranged marriage and seeking to bring your spouse to New Zealand, or living together already in New Zealand.

With the partnership-based work visa, you will be able to work in New Zealand and start earning.

We will explore some of these points in the sections below.

How does it work?

Irrespective of your individual circumstances, a partner work visa offers a distinct advantage in terms of flexibility as it is an "open" work visa. However, it's important to be aware that each of the scenarios described above comes with specific conditions and potential pitfalls you want to watch out for.

For example, if your partner is a New Zealand resident or citizen, your partnership visa will be an "open" work visa with no restrictions. That means INZ will not mind if you are working or not or whether you are running your own business. The downside, though, is that it can be granted for a maximum of 24 months (unless INZ agrees to grant further visas as an exception).

Partners of AEWV will get a work visa with certain restrictions.

In other cases, if your partner is on a student visa, the eligibility criteria for a partnership visa are fairly limited because your partner has to be studying in New Zealand a specific course at the NZQA level immigration has stipulated.

We will provide detailed insights into the common scenarios below to help you navigate this process effectively.

What are the requirements of a Partner Work Visa?

Broadly, you will need to satisfy each of the following requirements:

  • meet general requirements; and
  • meet partnership requirements; and
  • meet sponsor requirements.Let's take a look at each of them in turn.

General requirements include paying the correct application fee , using a prescribed Immigration New Zealand form such as INZ 1146 , meeting health and character requirements, and being a 'bona fide' (genuine) applicant.

You must be 18 years or older, but if you are 16 or 17, you must have parental consent. You can't be close relatives either.

For partners of New Zealand citizens and residents, if you have lived together for more than 12 months, you can provide a 'limited medical' instead of a 'general medical'. In other cases, you will need to get a 'general medical' done. We have a page that lists INZ-approved panel physicians nearby , which you can refer to.

Partnership

The definition of 'partnership' according to Immigration NZ is one of these three relationships:

  • a legal marriage; or
  • a civil union; or
  • a de facto relationship.

The responsibility to prove the authenticity and stability of the relationship, as well as cohabitation, lies with the applicant. INZ does not automatically accept these requirements solely on the basis of marriage. Even if you've enjoyed a happy marriage for over a decade and have dependent children, INZ will apply the same rigorous standard and request adequate supporting documentation to verify these aspects.

While there is no requirement as to how long you must have been together with your partner, the relevant Immigration instructions require that you must be living together with your partner in a "genuine and stable" relationship. It is, therefore, a two-part test where you have to show that you are living together physically and that your relationship is genuine and stable .

We get asked a lot: what's the minimum period of time a couple needs to have lived together before applying? As a general observation, a couple will need to have been living together for two to three months at a minimum -- and that's only if there is solid evidence to back it up.

There is some risk involved in applying too prematurely, especially if there is not much evidence. We strongly recommend that you get in touch with us or a licenced immigration adviser and get help . The last thing you want is to find yourself and your loved one in a battle with immigration when it could have been avoided if you had sought proper advice from the start.

Immigration NZ, in assessing your application and, in particular, the substance of the partnership, looks at a range of factors, including:

  • how you met and in what circumstances;
  • how the relationship progressed;
  • whether you and your partner are living together and, if so, the length of time;
  • whether you have financial interdependency;
  • whether there is public recognition of the relationship;
  • whether the relationship is committed, exclusive and likely to endure;

Writing a letter to explain the above points should be the first starting point, and we have published an article about how to write a relationship support letter which you might find useful.

As part of the assessment, the Immigration Officer may opt to interview you and your partner or visit your home address without prior notice. They can also conduct an "open search", which essentially means searching the internet for any clues, including your social media profiles. INZ takes these checks to ensure there is credibility, genuineness, and stability in the relationship.

While it might initially appear intrusive and onerous to provide immigration authorities with requested documentation, particularly when it involves sensitive information, it's crucial to recognise that this is an integral part of the application process. Failure to provide the necessary documents might ultimately lead to a heartbreaking outcome.

Eligible sponsor

In addition to the previously mentioned requirements, your partner must support your visa application.

It's crucial to ensure that your supporting partner meets the eligibility criteria as a sponsor. If your partner is a New Zealand citizen or resident, it's essential to note that they should not have previously supported more than one successful resident visa application for former partners. This also includes instances where they obtained their own residence visa by being included as a partner to someone else.

If the date of such a successful residence application was not more than four years ago, then the New Zealander partner cannot support your application. It is a 'stand down' period of sorts, and a five-year stand-down period applies until being allowed to support the next partnership-based residence application.

Your sponsoring partner must meet character requirements. If he/she has had issues before, such as having been convicted for any offences involving domestic violence or of a sexual nature, having been fraudulent with Immigration New Zealand previously, etc., then he/she may not be considered to meet the character requirement and might need to request a character waiver . INZ might ask your partner to provide a police certificate if your partner has lived in any country for more than 12 months in the last 10 years.

For partners of Accredited Employer Work Visas, if your partner works in a role that falls within the Green List or receives a salary double the median wage, you may be eligible for a partnership-based "open" visa with no work restrictions. However, if your partner's employment does not meet these specific criteria but still pays at or above the median wage, you will be granted a visa that allows you to work exclusively for accredited employers at or above the median wage.

If your partner has a student visa, then he/she needs to be studying towards a level 7 or 8 qualifications on the Green list, or a level 7 qualification on the Qualifications Eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa List (Appendix 13), or a level 9 (masters level) or 10 (PhD study) qualification.

In the following circumstances, you will not be eligible for the Partner of a Worker Work Visa:

  • If your partner's visa was issued for six months or less (unless your partner holds a Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa);
  • If your partner's visa is a working holiday visa;
  • if your partner holds an AEWV and paid less than median wage (you may be eligible for a Partnership-Based Visitor Visa instead);
  • if your partner is employed by a Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE).

Note: partners of Essential Skills Work Visa  were also eligible for a partnership-based work visa, but the category closed in July 2022 and was superseded by the AEWV category.

In addition, you and your partner must plan to stay in New Zealand for the same amount of time. For example, if you are granted a New Zealand visa based on your partnership but then your partner goes to another country, leaving you behind, INZ might question whether you were a genuine applicant to begin with.

Your partner will also need to complete and provide the INZ 1146 form .

Just Imagine.

How much does it cost.

If you apply online, the application fee is $860 if your partner is a New Zealand resident or citizen, and $700 if your partner holds a work visa.

There may be other associated costs such as getting your medical and chest-xray done if you have not provided one in the last three years, and getting a police certificate from your home country if it has been more than two years since last supplying one to INZ.

If your partner is a NZ citizen or resident, and have lived together for more than 12 months, you can go for a 'limited medical' which is slightly cheaper than a 'general medical'.

What is the process for a Partner-Based Work Visa?

Step 1: Check your eligibliity

You will firstly want to check if you are eligible or not. Ask your partner questions around sponsor's eligibility to make sure. If you don't have sufficient evidence at this stage and if you are not in a rush, giving yourself sufficient time to gather more evidence will help.

Step 2: Complete the online application

Once you've gathered the necessary documents about your relationship, the living together evidence, and from those who are supporting you, go to Immigration New Zealand website, and start preparing the application.

If you want to apply in paper form, use INZ 1198 .

Step 3: Upload required documents

In a partnership application othere might be a lot of photographc evidence supplied. The documents will need to be in PDF files, and the upload file size limit is 10MB. Your passport-sized photograph should be in JPEG format.

Step 4: Payment of fees

Click through each application page to get to the payment screen. INZ allows payment options such as Visa, Mastercard, China UnionPay, Amex, JCB and POLi (internet banking).

Step 5: Submit your visa application

After you've successfully filled out the application and completed the necessary payment, your visa application will be promptly submitted. Immigration New Zealand will provide further guidance if any additional steps are needed.

We've got your back.

What is the processing time.

A partnership visa application generally follows a timeline of approximately three to six months until a decision is reached. However, it's essential to note that certain circumstances can lead to delays in the process. These situations may involve requests for interviews, INZ conducting verifications, and other related factors.

What does a Partnership-Based Work Visa look like?

When the visa application is approved, the partner of a New Zealander will be granted an open work visa for 12 months if you have lived together for less than 12 month, and 24 months if have lived together for more than 12 months.

In case of the partner of a worker work visa applicant, the visa will issue to the same duration of your supporting partner's existing visa.

Sample partnership work visa in New Zealand

What is the pathway to residency as a partner?

When it has been more than 12 months of living together, you will be eligible to apply under the partnership-based residence visa , if your partner is an eligible NZ citizen/resident partner. When counting the time, you will need to exclude the time when you were dating (and maintainnig separate homes), holidaying/travelling together, and living as flatmates (using separate rooms).

Frequently asked questions

Can i study on a partnership work visa, can i apply for partnership visa even tough we haven't lived together, i met someone on an online dating site, can i sponsor her, do i need to be married to be able to apply for partner visa, how did work rights change for partners of aewv holders, do i have to have a job offer to be able to apply for a partnership visa, can i run a business on a partnership visa, we're here to help., related articles.

  • How to Write a Winning Genuine Relationship Letter for Immigration

Related INZ forms

  • INZ 1146 - Form for Partners Supporting Partnership-Based Temporary Entry Applications
  • INZ 1225 - Work Visa Declaration Form
  • INZ 1198 - Partnership-Based Temporary Visa Application

Keep reading

Student visa, post study work visa, recent publications.

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Remember , new zealand immigration laws and policies change constantly, without warning . take action now so you don't miss out. contact immigration lawyer nz to discuss your situation today ., don't miss out.

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Develop a New Zealand-style CV

Most employers will quickly scan your CV to decide if it is worth reading in more detail. So it needs to make a good impression quickly.

What to include in your CV

CV and cover letter

New Zealand employers only want to see relevant information on your CV. They do not need a list of every job or course you have ever done.

Employers are most interested in your:

  • technical and personal skills
  • work experience
  • qualifications and education
  • community and volunteer experience.

They also like to see some evidence of how you have applied your skills.

It is best to only include relevant details of your skills and experience and to give brief examples of how you have used your skills in the past.

Skills employers are looking for | careers.govt.nz

Previous employers

Local employers may not be familiar with the organisations you have worked for overseas. It helps if you include a short description of organisations you list on your CV, like:

  • the number of employees
  • the location
  • a website link so they can get more information if they need it.

The careers.govt.nz website has tips on how to write a CV for New Zealand employers.

How to write a CV | careers.govt.nz

Make a good impression

It is important to make a good impression of yourself as a potential employee, but not to appear too boastful about your achievements.

Many people make the mistake of writing a CV and using it for every job application. New Zealand employers expect you to adjust your CV to suit each job so that it highlights the skills that are relevant to the job.

People suggested that my CV was not what New Zealand employers would look at. Where I come from we prepare a CV in a different way: we give all our experience right from day one. Here, nobody likes to read a story! Darshan Desai

Cover letters

Most New Zealand employers expect a cover letter with your CV when you apply for a job. A cover letter is a ‘sales pitch’ about why you think you are ideal for the job.

Your cover letter should:

  • briefly introduce yourself
  • outline your main relevant skills and experience
  • make an argument for why you are the right person for the specific job.

Just like your CV, it should focus on details that are relevant to the job you are applying for and it should be brief – no longer than 1 page.

Use a formal and persuasive style when writing a cover letter. It is a good idea to have a generic letter that you can adjust to match the job description you are applying for.

How to write a cover letter | careers.govt.nz

Your qualifications

Remember to bring your qualifications with you to New Zealand. If you are sending them in with an application, send a copy. Keep the originals safe and get copies made and certified. If you are in New Zealand, a Justice of the Peace (JP) can certify them.

Find a JP | Royal Federation of New Zealand Justices' Associations

Helpful resources

The careers.govt.nz website has many resources that can help you to make a New Zealand-style CV and cover letter. There is material to help you:

  • understand the parts of a CV
  • learn how to put transferable skills on your CV
  • learn how to write a cover letter
  • fill in job application forms.

CV and cover letter templates | careers.govt.nz

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Information for migrants: How to apply for a job in New Zealand

15 January 2018 by Careers New Zealand

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You've found a job you'd like to apply for and it's time to prepare your application. Find out about the different ways to apply.

You’ve found a job you’d like to apply for and it’s time to prepare your application. What happens next, and what does the company expect from you?

There are different ways to apply for a job – you usually apply directly to the employer but you can also do it through a recruitment agency.

What you need

Curriculum vitae (cv).

To apply for a job you’ll need two important things – a curriculum vitae (CV) and a cover letter. In New Zealand it’s common to provide a CV that is usually two to three pages long.

You may not have any New Zealand work experience so give lots of detail about what you did before you came here and highlight all your skills.

Your CV represents you as a person in the job market – it’s your personal brand – and you need to make sure your CV and cover letter are relevant and correct, with perfect grammar and no spelling mistakes.

Tips for creating a CV:

  • Use our CV Builder tool .
  • Don’t include a photo or other personal information like age, ethnicity, gender, number of children or marital status.
  • Include your current work status, such as “New Zealand skilled migrant visa”, as well as your availability, such as “available immediately”.
  • The spelling and grammar needs to be perfect in your CV, so ask someone else to check this. 
  • Include a brief personal summary outlining your key skills and strengths, your career ambitions, and what type of role you’re looking for.

Cover letter

The cover letter is your only chance to show you are the ideal candidate for a job. It’s important to include the right information about you and match this to the job requirements.

Tips for creating a cover letter:

  • Your cover letter should be only one page long – a maximum of 350 words.
  • You need to link the information in the cover letter back to the job requirements.
  • Include the company details and job title of the role you’re applying for. 
  • Include your name and contact details, including your mobile number.

A reference (or referee) is a person who can provide evidence of your skills, experience and suitability for the job you’re applying for. You will need at least two work references who can answer questions about you by phone.

Tips about references:

  • Having positive references is important if you want to get the job. Make sure they are people you trust who can talk honestly about your work and attitude. 
  • Use your two last direct managers as references if you can, or one could be a work colleague.
  • You can also include a character reference to support your application, such as someone from your church or a community group where you volunteer.
  • If you have a written reference letter from your home country, make sure you have the phone contact details for the reference so they can be contacted easily.

The application

The job advertisement will include how to complete the application, usually with a website link.

Tips about making a job application:

  • If you’re applying through a job website like Seek or TradeMe, you will need to create an account and then upload your CV, cover letter and supporting documents to complete the application.
  • You may need to use the job advertiser’s own website. You will need to create a profile on their system and upload your CV, cover letter and supporting documents.
  • Supporting documents may include electronic scanned copies of your passport, work visa and driver’s licence.

So what happens next?

Once you’ve completed your application there are two possible outcomes – you get shortlisted for the job or your application was unsuccessful. 

If you are shortlisted the employer will usually call to set up an interview time. Or they may call to ask more questions about your application – treat this type of call like a job interview. 

If you receive an email saying your application is unsuccessful, try contacting the job advertiser and asking for feedback. Include any useful feedback in your future job search strategy.

Work Connect programme

Work Connect is a free 10-hour programme to help skilled migrants, partners of skilled migrants and international student graduates (Level 7 and above) prepare for the New Zealand job market.

Work Connect supports participants with personalised coaching and mentoring to help them find a job that suits their skills, experience and qualifications.

Eligibility criteria apply. Find out more and apply now .

Updated 23 Jan 2019

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Find out how we can help if you’re moving house.

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CVs and cover letters

Take the hard work out of writing your CV and cover letter. Get advice about what to write, support to show you what to do, and free templates you can use.

When you apply for a job, employers will look at your:

  • CV, to see your skills, any qualifications, and your work history
  • cover letter, to find out what kind of person you are and why you want this job.

They'll use this to decide if they want to interview you, so it's really important to make a good impression.

What's available

'build my cv' service.

A free service to help you write or rewrite your CV and cover letter. It's run by the Auckland Business Chamber, and it's available online and by phone throughout New Zealand.

You can sign up if you're getting Jobseeker Support or Sole Parent Support.

If you've been getting one of these benefits for less than 12 months, you can sign up through MyMSD:

If you've been getting one of these benefits for more than 12 months talk to your local service centre or call our Job Search line on 0800 779 009 .

Step-by-step CV builder

A free, interactive tool from Careers.govt.nz.

  • Makes sure your CV has all the information employers look for.
  • Tips and advice to help you build a CV to get you noticed.
  • Your CV will save automatically to your account, and you can download, print and email it in Word and PDF.

How to write a cover letter

Careers.govt.nz has great advice about:

  • what your cover letter needs
  • how to make it look good
  • templates you can use.

Apply for a work visa

If you’re planning to work in New Zealand and you’re not a citizen or permanent resident of NZ or Australia, you’ll need a visa that lets you work.

Who needs a visa

You can apply for a visa to work here temporarily if you:

  • have a job offer from a New Zealand employer
  • are coming for a specific work-related purpose or event
  • have a partner here, and you want to join them and work
  • are from a country that has a special work scheme, or
  • have been studying here and want work here.

Work that leads to residence

Some work visas can also lead to residence — that is, the right to live, study and work here without needing to leave by a certain date. To apply you need to have skills, experience and qualifications that are needed for the New Zealand workforce.

Work visas that lead to residence

New Zealand residence — Immigration NZ

Citizens or permanent residents of Australia

You can work, live and study in NZ . You’ll get a resident visa when you arrive.

Are there any special rules for Australian citizens and residents? — Immigration NZ

Choose the right visa

There are more than 80 visas that let you work in New Zealand. Before you apply, decide which visa is right for you.

Explore visa options to work — Immigration NZ

Application fees

Find out how much it costs to apply, where to send your application or your passport, and how long it will take to get your visa.

Fees, decision times and where to apply — Immigration NZ

Before you apply

You need to gather information about yourself and your plans for your time in New Zealand. What you need to provide depends on the visa you apply for. For all visas, you need to provide proof of your identity and good character. You may also need to provide information about your health.

New Zealand visas — Immigration NZ

For many visas you need to find a job in New Zealand first.

  • Finding and applying for jobs — Live and work in New Zealand
  • Job hunting

Proving your identity and good character

You must provide a photo, passport and other identity information.

  • Acceptable photos for a visa or NZeTA — Immigration NZ
  • Identity and character — Immigration NZ

Depending on the visa you’re applying for and how long you intend to stay in New Zealand, you must provide police certificates from countries you’ve lived in for more than 5 years since you turned 17. These help to prove that you’re of good character.

  • Providing police certificates — Immigration NZ
  • How to get a police certificate — Immigration NZ

Getting medical certificates

Depending on how long you’re staying here and where you’re from, you may have to provide medical certificates or get a chest X-ray from a doctor approved by Immigration New Zealand ( INZ ).

  • Health information — Immigration NZ
  • Find a radiologist or doctor near you — Immigration NZ
  • Healthcare if you’re in NZ on a work visa

Translations of documents into English

If you have to provide police or medical certificates and they’re not in English, you need to provide certified translations. INZ can also ask you to provide translations of any other documents that are not in English.

English translations must be done by:

  • the translation service of New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs ( DIA )
  • an embassy or high commission, or
  • a private or official translation business.

DIA ’s translation service — Citizenship and Immigration

Translations cannot be done by:

  • you — that is, the person applying for the visa
  • a member of your family
  • an immigration adviser helping with your application.

How to apply

You can apply online for most work visas. There are a few visas that you need to fill in a printed application form for, including some country-specific work visas.

Work visa forms and guides — Immigration NZ

Apply online for a work visa

For most work visas, you need to set up a New Zealand Government RealMe ® account before you start your application.

Use RealMe ® to prove your identity online

You do not need a RealMe ® account if you’re applying for a working holiday visa.

Before you start your online application, have all your supporting documents ready to upload.

Apply for a visa — Immigration NZ

Getting a tax number

Once you have your visa, apply for an IRD number from Inland Revenue ( IR ). You give this number to your employer when you start work and use it for all your New Zealand tax matters.

IRD numbers for individuals — IR

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Table of Contents

Cover letter for partnership visa in NZ(4 samples)

cover letter for work visa application nz

As a BetterHelp affiliate, we may receive compensation from BetterHelp if you purchase products or services through the links provided.

The Optimistminds editorial team is made up of psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health professionals. Each article is written by a team member with exposure to and experience in the subject matter.  The article then gets reviewed by a more senior editorial member. This is someone with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and highly cited published material.

This article will list samples of “cover letters for partnership Visa in NZ.”

Samples of cover letters for a partnership Visa in NZ

Suppose you are a partner or spouse of an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen living in Australia temporarily seeking to apply for a Visa. In that case, your cover letter is an opportunity to show your recipient why you qualify. The best format for writing a cover letter is as follows:

  • Address the recipient with a formal salutation. For example, “Dear/Hello (name of the recipient).” If you do not know the recipient’s name, you can refer to them as sir/madam.
  • Write a brief statement about why you are interested in visiting Ireland.
  • Make a brief statement about your purpose for choosing the country. Next, disclose if you have already paid for accommodation.
  • Next, clearly state that you intend to return to your home country after completing your adventure.
  • List the expenses/funds and the documents and items attached to the application.
  • Conclude your letter with a forward-looking statement.

Greetings of Peace!

I would like to apply for a holiday/visit visa, I was invited by my fiancee, Liam Smith to visit his country before we get married on June 30, 2007 to experience his country, its climate, culture, etc. I have been acquainted with Mr. Liam Smith since April 2005 through letters, long distance calls and text messages. Mr. Smith was introduce to me by a friend, Luisa Kenny.

Mr. Smith visited me in the (mention country) last September 21 to October 7, 2006 and stayed in my town for sometime. We have been together for two weeks and enjoy each company. Mr. Smith was able to experience my country, its culture, the people and the climate. While he was here, we were engaged and will get married on June 30, 2007.

I have been engaged in a business since July 8, 2006 to the present and all my savings was put into it. Thus the level of money on my bank fluctuates. I have enough and sufficient income from my business and from my salary to augment my finances. At the same time Mr. Smith will take care of all my finances during my stay in Ireland.

I hereby promise that, I will observe the conditions of my visa and that I will not become a burden on the State, and that I will leave the State on the expiration of my permission to remain. I promise to return to (mention your country) after my one month vacation from April 2, 2007 until May 1, 2007 and to return to my work on May 2, 2007 and to prepare for our wedding on June 30, 2007.

For additional information please find attached receipts of our engagement and wedding ring, air tickets, pictures and some letters he sent, etc.

May I refer you also to the following persons for your perusal and verification for the information I gave.

(Here you have to give at least 2 references.)

I am hoping for your generous and kind hearted assessment to my application.

Sincerely yours.

Mary Gavilan”

“30th November 2017

Department of Immigration and Border Protection

Off shore Partner Visa Processing Centre

RE: Letter in Support of My Relationship and the Visa Application for a Partnervisa

Dear Case Officer,

My name is [insert full name] and my birth date is [insert birth date]. My passport number is [insert passport number] and I am an [insert citizenship].

I first met [insert partner name] in [insert town or location]. [Describe thecircumstances surrounding your introduction to one another and the first thingsthat appealed to you about your partner].

[Describe how you went from dating to an exclusive relationship and how this relationship began]

[Insert partner name] seemed to understand all of my life experiences and our personalities worked so well together. I found him to be very caring, understanding, and appreciative of me and he always made time for us to spend time together. I was so happy to see [insert partner name] from very early in our relationship and after being together for [insert present duration of relationship] to this day, I am still so happy to see [insert partner name]

One of my favorite parts of our relationship is the mutual interests we share. From very early in our relationship we were always able to have fun with one another because we were interested in the same things. Some of our mutual interests and hobbies include [insert mutual interests and hobbies].

[Elaborate on the time spent apart and how you kept in contact to maintain your long-distance relationship].

[sample] During our separation we communicate through many emails, phone calls, Skype video chats, Viber, and Facebook messages. I try to be there for him and support him in any situation. We communicate with each other every day even if it is for a quick hello, good morning, or good night, not a day goes by without speaking to each other and it made me become so close to him. [insertpartner name is such a caring and wonderful man. For the first time, I am truly in-love and want to spend the rest of my life with him. He made such a genuine effort and I love the way he does everything possible for me.

To support the evidence about our relationship, I have attached our photos, traveling together (location), receipts of gifts, letters, chat messages, emails, etc.

[Describe any big changes you have made to your lifestyle since beginning the relationship with your partner, any changes that have improved your life, etc. E.g.describe when you decided to move in together or when you decided to get married and how happy you have been since.

[Describe how your partner has cared for you financially].

[Insert partner name] has become a person in my life that I need. He is irreplaceable to me and the thought of being separated is heartbreaking.

[Elaborate on the proposal/decision to get married further and if it was a special and unique proposal]

[Elaborate on the decision to get married, wedding preparation and planning, the day and ceremony itself, and any other aspects related to getting married].

Give details of the financial aspects of the relationship.

Give details of the nature of the household. Give details of the social aspects of the relationship.

Give details of the nature of the commitment the applicant and the sponsor have to each other 

Give details of the development of the relationship between the applicant and the sponsor.

In nearly all things I do and even small everyday activities, I always have [insertpartner name] in my thoughts. Together, we started looking into the options we had however after all of the research we did, we were still not 100% confident in doing this by ourselves. We approached a migration agent to handle the application as we want to be able to build a life together. When we made the decision to lodge this visa, it wasn’t difficult at all. At no point did the financial expense or various requirements bother us. We are happy to meet all of the requirements and undertake any special requests to secure our future together.

I am able to count on[insert partner name] and at the end of each day, there isn’t another person in the world I could imagine coming home to.[Insert partner name] is such an incredible person and I’m so happy I’ve been able to find someone I can share every moment with and who stands by me through any difficulties I face.

[Elaborate on specific future plans together such as starting a business, traveling, making big purchases such as houses or cars, etc.].

I declare that what I have stated above is true, honest, and genuine. As an applicant, I don’t have any intention to be married to [insert partner name] just for the purpose of getting permanent residency. I love him for so many good reasons, and I am so grateful that I found my soul mate, the love of my life. We have committed to staying and living together and we will try to overcome all the obstacles in our relationship.

Since meeting [insert partner name], my life has become so wonderful and so blissful. In each person’s life, there is turbulence and there will always be challenges but having someone so wonderful to stand by me is a blessing and such a gift.

Please do not hesitate to contact me on the below details if you need further information. Thanking you,

[insert name ]

Home address:

Contact number:

Email address

Immigration Officer

[Embassy Name]

[Embassy Address]

[Embassy Phone Number]

Subject: Sponsorship Letter for [Wife’s name] with Passport No. __________________

Dear Sir/Madam,

I, [Your full name], currently residing at [address] and a [country] citizen, am writing in support of my wife, [Wife’s full Name], visa application.

[Wife’s Name] will be traveling with me to [Destination name] for tourism and vacationing purposes. My wife and I will depart on [enter date DD/MM/YY] and return to [enter home country/other country] on [enter date DD/MM/YY].

During the dates specified above, my wife and I plan to visit [places you plan to visit] [add more details if applicable – a schedule, tours, etc.]. In addition, [Wife’s name] will be staying with me at [hotel name(s)]. Furthermore, I will cover all expenses through [provide means of funding].

Please find all the required documents attached to this letter to support the given statements.

Kind regards

[applicant name]

[Your home address]

[Your phone number]

[Your occupation]

[Your signature]”

“01 March 2020 

The Honorable Consul 

Australian Embassy Manila 

Level 23-Tower 2 RCBC Plaza, 6819 Ayala Avenue 

Dear Sir/Madam: 

I would like to apply for an Australian Tourist Visa for myself, RICARDO DALISAY, and for my mother, GLORIA DALISAY, to cover our intention to travel to your state from April 1 to 6, 2020. 

We will be visiting Melbourne. The main purpose of our travel is tourism. Over the past five years, I have been to Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Hong Kong. I returned to the Philippines after every trip, and I have NEVER overstayed a visa ever. 

I travel with my mother every year to have quality time with her. This year, I am hoping I could bring her to Melbourne so she could enjoy the many attractions including the Great Ocean Road, Brighton Beach, and Port Campbell. 

My ITR (tax document) for this year has not been released by my employer, so I am submitting a copy of my last year’s ITR, a Certificate of Employment, and copies of my pay slips this year. I am also uploading statements for my two bank accounts: a payroll account, where I receive my salary; and a savings account, where I keep my life savings. 

We trust that you will find everything in order and remain at your disposal for any further information you may need. Thank you so much. Hoping for a favorable response. 

Sincerely, 

Ricardo Dalisay 

Email Address 

+63 Mobile Number”

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is a cover letter important.

  • Provide information that other documents can’t provide.
  • Speeds up the application process

Is it worth applying for an Irish passport?

The advantages of becoming an Irish citizen and holding an Irish passport include: 

  • You are still considered an EU citizen. 
  • You can travel freely throughout the 28 member states of the EU to live and work. 
  • If you have children, they will be granted Irish and EU citizenship.

If you like this blog post, please leave your comments and questions below.

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Related posts, cover letter for hse position (5 samples), cover letter for lunch monitor (5 samples), cover letter for dnata equipment operator(5 samples).

cover letter for work visa application nz

Why You Should Write a Letter to Support Your Visa Application

What and why is a cover letter.

Family visa

  • When someone applies for a visa, a cover letter is helpful, definitely for a New Zealand visa application. The visa processing authority, Immigration New Zealand (INZ), wants to see why you believe you are entitled to a visa that you are applying for. Without a letter explaining the links with your claims, your case officer may be confused about why you sent particular evidence supporting documents. It is a legal term often used in the immigration setting, but the onus is on applicants to show that they meet the visa requirements.

You may have only one chance for some applications

A cover letter can save you from being denied the chance to come to nz.

Visa Passport

What should contain the cover letter?

Your personal statement.

Personal Statement

Employment Letters

Employment Letter

Support letters

Support Visa Letter

  • You are applying for a visa and want someone who knows about you to support your visa application
  • You are applying for a partnership-based visa and want your friends or family to talk about the nature of the relationship
  • You or your supporting partner has a criminal conviction and want the third party to testify about your character to mitigate their concerns.

Translation requirements

NZ Visa Boarding Pass

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Cover letter Sample for Partnership based work Visa

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Bala6666 is offline

Below is my cover letter pls feel free to use this as a sample. If you guys have any suggestion/Corrections on my letter you are free to comment. From Name Address To The immigration officer, Immigration New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand. Sir/Madam, Sub: Requisition of issuance of Partnership-Based Work visa (INZ 1198). I am NAME, holding Indian passport NUMBER I am applying for Partnership based work visa. My wife NAME is currently pursuing her Level 8 course at NAME College, Wellington holding Passport NUMBER and application # NUMBER. We got married on DATE in COUNTRY. Our wedding was attended by our Kith & Kin. Since then we started living as husband and wife from the day of our marriage. After our marriage, we rented a house and lived together until we decided to move to New Zealand. Upon deciding we stayed with my parents for a period of 5 months before we could bid farewell to them. Once my wife moved to New Zealand, I decided to move with her and applied for my Partnership based work visa Application # NUMBER and was granted partnership based visitor visa. I moved with my wife in New Zealand on DATE and we are living together since. In this connection, I am re-applying for a Partnership-Based Work visa along with the relevant supporting documents. Henceforth I request you to consider my visa application so that we can continue living together as a married couple in New Zealand. Below table details the evidence and documents provided in connection with my application. Criteria Evidence Provided Identity Original Passport. Health Copy of e Medical Information. Character Copy of Police clearance certificate. Genuine Relationship: 1. Marriage certificate. 2. Marriage Invitation card, Photographs, and video CD. 3. Spouse name in Passport. 4. Wedding Night Hotel room booking. 5. What's app Chat history from March 2016. Living together: 1. Certified Rental agreement in ORIGIN COUNTRY. 2. ORIGIN COUNTRY Bank statement (wife's account) showing rent and deposit transfer to Landlord. 3. Joint Bank account statement indicating our Permanent residence address. 4. Tenancy Agreement in Wellington, New Zealand. 5. Internet and Power Bills indicating both our names. 6. Mail addressed to my wife and me at the same address in New Zealand. 7. Joint Bank account in Westpac, indicating our utility and house set up expenses. References and Leisure Time: 1. Reference letter from my college mate who is currently a resident in New Zealand. 2. Intercity ticket details to Napier to meet the college mate and his wife. 3. Weta Caves and waterfront, wellington sightseeings Photos 4. Honeymoon trip details to DESTINATION (Hotel and flight tickets). 5. Leisure trip to DESTINATION (Hotel booking). 6. Air Tickets from ORIGIN COUNTRY to Wellington for both my wife and me (Different dates). 7. What's app chat during our Separation time for 2 months due to Visa process. Partner's Visa: 1. Certified Passport copy of Partner. 2. Copy of Partners visa. Funds ORIGIN COUNTRY Bank statement and Westpac Statement. Other Documents include: 1. Certified education documents. 2. Certified work experience documents. 3. Name change certified records. Thanking you, NAME MOBILE NUMBER

cover letter for work visa application nz

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Relationship Support Letter Guide

Resources Relationship Support Letter Guide

Immigration New Zealand decides whether they believe a relationship is genuine based on the information you provide.  One way of showing you are in a genuine relationship is by asking friends or colleagues to write letters of support for you.  We can’t provide a sample letter for you to follow but we can help by highlighting who you should ask to write one, what should be in it and what can go wrong.

Proof of relationship documents

To apply for a visa based on a relationship with a New Zealand visa holder or New Zealand citizen, you and your partner Immigration New Zealand defines partnership as two people of the opposite or same sex, who live together in a genuine and stable relationship. So what counts as a genuine and stable relationship?

Who should you ask to write a relationship support letter?

Any genuine relationship will be noticed by others. People like colleagues, team mates, friends and those in your community will have seen you do things together. When it comes to choosing people to write letters of support, the more independent the person writing the letter, the stronger it will be and the longer they have known you, the better. So instead of asking your cousin or flatmate, look for someone with standing in the community to act as your referee. Think about asking employers, colleagues, clients, church or community group leaders. Most importantly, they need to know you both and be comfortable discussing how they know you and how long they have known you.

What information do you need your referee to cover in a relationship support letter?

  • They should state the writer’s relationship to you or your partner and explain how you know each other (if not related)
  • They should confirm that you are in a genuine and stable relationship.
  • If relevant: confirm that you are currently living together at your address and say how long you have been together.
  • They should explain how they were first made aware of the relationship with a specific description of an event or dates.
  • They should detail what they know about the relationship, for instance, trips that you may have made together, events attended, and any milestones you have made such as an engagement party or marriage.

It is important to include dates where possible, even if it is as simple as mentioning it was last year. It is also good to include observations about how you support each other as a couple or examples of how you have worked together to support others in your area.

Finally, it is important that the referee include their contact details as Immigration New Zealand may wish to interview them and ask specific questions about the relationship.

What about dependents?

If your partner is a New Zealand citizen or resident and you are applying for residence, dependent children, aged 24 and under, can be included in your visa application. If you are applying for a partnership work visa you can’t include dependent children in your application but they can apply for visas based on their relationship to you.

What if your New Zealand partnership visa is rejected?

There are many reasons an application can be unsuccessful. There can be gaps in your application that you haven’t explained. One example is if you have spent time living apart. Many couples will leave this kind of information out but it is important to provide details about your separation, including the reasons you were living apart, how long you were living apart and how you kept in touch.

Common mistakes in partnership visa applications

Consistency across all documents for your visa application is crucial as inconsistency will be a red flag to the immigration official reviewing your application. When providing lots of documents some of the information will be repetitive and should be identical, such as your address details, certain information about your relationship, travel and your history. Before you start your application, draw a timeline of your relationship and refer to this as you complete your application. Some good things to clarify are:

  • When and where you met
  • When you decided to commit to the relationship
  • When you moved in together and where you lived
  • When you got engaged
  • When you got married.

Important information you need to make clear to immigration New Zealand

Another important detail often overlooked is keeping your address up to date. There is nothing wrong with moving about but conflicting addresses might make Immigration New Zealand question whether your relationship has ended.

Also, give some thought to the domestic details of your life together. Be clear about:

  • How you share money and who pays the bills? Do you both have access to bank accounts?
  • What is your household routine and who does which chores? What do you do for fun as a couple and how do you spend the weekend? Do you have regular things you do together?
  • Who are your mutual friends? What holidays have you been on together?
  • What plans do you have for the future and what are your mutual goals?

What is posted on social media platforms could also have an impact on your partner visa application. Make sure what you post on both of your social media accounts is up-to-date, accurate and honest. Immigration New Zealand may look at what you post on social media and compare it to your application. Make sure you update your relationship status on Facebook and check photos from travel, housing or any other posts that match up with your application.

Some people find it difficult to talk about their feelings, but it is important you can talk about the reasons you love each other and the future you want to build together. You need to communicate that feeling to the person reading your application.

How an Immigration Lawyer can help

While you don’t need to use an Immigration Lawyer to apply for a Partnership Visa, it is one of the best ways to avoid having your visa rejected for simple errors. With 20 years of experience, we know that our process and advice will help clients feel confident about their application. We can provide advice on how to complete your application to give you the best chance of success. We will support and guide you through the process, advising you and cross-checking all your supporting evidence and timelines.

We also have expertise in handling cases where a partnership visa has been rejected. One recent case involved an applicant who had successfully applied for a Partnership Visa and then divorced her partner. A subsequent visa application was denied but we identified a way to achieve an outcome and our client was granted the visa and able to stay with her husband and family. Read more about this amazing success story .

Looking for more information about the Partnership Visa? We have written a guide to how it works and what you need to do, read more here .

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English translations will be required for visitor visa supporting documents.

From 17 June 2024, all supporting documents submitted with visitor visa applications to Immigration New Zealand (INZ) must be provided in English.

Applicants must provide a certified English translation of any documents in a foreign language.

Previously, applications including documents provided in a foreign language and with no translations could take longer to process.

Ensuring that documents for your visitor visa application are provided in English helps us process it more efficiently.

What documents need translation?

All supporting documents submitted with visitor visa applications must be provided in English or include an English translation.

Examples of documents that require translation can include:

  • proof of funds — such as bank statements, pay records
  • flight itineraries including return tickets
  • proof of employment in your home country
  • leave of absence documentation
  • identity documents other than passports — for example, Hukou for Chinese nationals.

It is already a requirement for visitor visa applicants to provide English translations of medical and police certificates that are in a foreign language.

Who can complete a certified translation?

Applicants can provide certified translations completed by:

  • reputable private or official translation businesses
  • community members known for their accurate translations, excluding the applicant, family members, or their immigration adviser.

We will also accept translations from a licensed immigration adviser (LIA) who is:

  • a trustworthy person within the community
  • known to translate documents accurately
  • not an adviser on the application.

Applications without translated documents are likely to be declined.

Providing English translations of supporting documents

We have a range of visas that allow you to visit New Zealand.

Visas that allow you to visit

Resources about mandatory translations

If you are working with visa applicants, you can use our marketing media pack. These resources are available in English and other languages.

Marketing media pack — mandatory English translations

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  1. How to Write a Convincing Cover Letter for a NZ Partnership Visa

    Applying for a partnership-based visa can be a lengthy and complicated process. However, one of the most important parts of your application is the cover letter. The cover letter helps you explain your relationship, demonstrate how you meet the criteria, and persuade Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to grant you a visa.

  2. How To Master a Cover Letter for New Zealand [Examples & Tips]

    Address the cover letter to the right person, e.g., the hiring manager or recruiter. Be clear and concise. Have a structure in the letter - beginning, middle, end. Use active words to describe your work - accomplished, achieved, led, created, increased, identified. Finish with a call to action and ask for a meeting.

  3. How to write an NZ cover letter (with examples and templates)

    1. Your contact info, the date and the business' address. At the top of your cover letter should be: Your full name, contact details and home address. The date you submit the application. The business' postal address. It should look like this: Head up your cover letter like this. 2.

  4. Mastering the Art of Writing a Convincing Cover Letter for a New

    Writing a convincing cover letter for a New Zealand partnership visa application is a meticulous process that requires attention to detail, thoroughness, and persuasive storytelling. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can create a compelling narrative that showcases the authenticity and strength of your partnership.

  5. Cover Letters

    Structuring the Cover Letter: Before you start the main part of the letter, write your mobile number, email address and Skype ID at the top left-hand side of the letter. Follow this by the date and then write Re: followed by the title of the job you are applying for and a reference number if it's provided. Check the listing carefully as this ...

  6. CV and cover letter templates

    Save and name your templated CV and cover letter. When you download the templates, remember to save them on your computer as a Word document and a PDF. Employers may need either format. Name your documents with your name, the application date, and the job you're applying for. For instance, "Mere Smith 1 Oct 2023 Water Engineer CV".

  7. Work Visa Application (INZ 1015)

    4 July 2022. Back. Complete this Work Visa Application Form (INZ 1015) to apply for a work visa for New Zealand, if you cannot apply online. Work Visa Application (INZ 1015) PDF 616KB.

  8. Partnership Work Visa in NZ

    Step 2: Complete the online application. Once you've gathered the necessary documents about your relationship, the living together evidence, and from those who are supporting you, go to Immigration New Zealand website, and start preparing the application. If you want to apply in paper form, use INZ 1198.

  9. How to write a cover letter

    To make your cover letter look good: use a black, easy to read font in one size. use simple language and be warm and friendly. use positive phrases like 'I have' and 'I can'. use bullet points to list information. avoid weak words like 'some knowledge' or 'fairly experienced'. avoid starting each sentence with 'I'. avoid repeating your whole CV.

  10. Develop a New Zealand-style CV

    Cover letters. Most New Zealand employers expect a cover letter with your CV when you apply for a job. A cover letter is a 'sales pitch' about why you think you are ideal for the job. Your cover letter should: briefly introduce yourself. outline your main relevant skills and experience. make an argument for why you are the right person for ...

  11. Information for migrants: How to apply for a job in New Zealand

    Tips for creating a cover letter: Your cover letter should be only one page long - a maximum of 350 words. You need to link the information in the cover letter back to the job requirements. Include the company details and job title of the role you're applying for. Include your name and contact details, including your mobile number.

  12. Genuine intentions to visit, study or work in New Zealand

    If you are travelling on a student visa, you must have genuine intentions to study in New Zealand. To be granted a student visa to attend a programme of study that will last at least 3 months, you must: have an offer of place, or confirmation of enrolment if you are a returning student, from a New Zealand education provider.

  13. CVs and cover letters

    CVs and cover letters. Take the hard work out of writing your CV and cover letter. Get advice about what to write, support to show you what to do, and free templates you can use. When you apply for a job, employers will look at your: CV, to see your skills, any qualifications, and your work history. cover letter, to find out what kind of person ...

  14. Apply for a work visa

    Who needs a visa. You can apply for a visa to work here temporarily if you: have a job offer from a New Zealand employer. are coming for a specific work-related purpose or event. have a partner here, and you want to join them and work. are from a country that has a special work scheme, or. have been studying here and want work here.

  15. Cover letter for partnership visa in NZ (4 samples)

    This article will list samples of "cover letters for partnership Visa in NZ." ... List the expenses/funds and the documents and items attached to the application. Conclude your letter with a forward-looking statement. ... 2007 and to return to my work on May 2, 2007 and to prepare for our wedding on June 30, 2007. For additional information ...

  16. Accredited Employer Work Visa

    With this visa you can. Work in New Zealand for an accredited employer who has offered you at least 30 hours work a week. Study for up to 3 months in any 12 month period, or do any study required as part of your employment. If you are eligible, apply for a Straight to Residence Visa, Work to Residence Visa, Care Workforce Work to Residence Visa ...

  17. Why You Should Write a Letter to Support

    Bottomline. Writing a letter to support your visa application such as a good cover letter, is crucial as a means of communicating effectively and convincingly with the processing officer, whether it is a student visa, visitor visa or a partner of a New Zealander resident visa. Remember, your case officer must consider all the submitted ...

  18. Free cover letter template

    Download our free cover letter template. Think of your cover letter as a pitch - a way to introduce yourself professionally and show the value you could bring to the role you're applying for. Your resumé is there to document your skills, experience, and achievements, but your cover letter sums these things up in a way that speaks to the ...

  19. Cover letter Sample for Partnership based work Visa

    Cover letter Sample for Partnership based work Visa. Below is my cover letter pls feel free to use this as a sample. If you guys have any suggestion/Corrections on my letter you are free to comment. From Name Address To The immigration officer, Immigration New Zealand, Auckland, New Zealand. Sir/Madam, Sub: Requisition of issuance of ...

  20. Partner of a New Zealander Work Visa

    With this visa you can. Stay in New Zealand for 2 years if you have been living with your partner for more than 12 months. It is 1 year if you have been living with your partner for less than 12 months, but further visas can be granted for a maximum stay of 24 months in total. partner. Work in New Zealand.

  21. Relationship Support Letter Guide

    If your partner is a New Zealand citizen or resident and you are applying for residence, dependent children, aged 24 and under, can be included in your visa application. If you are applying for a partnership work visa you can't include dependent children in your application but they can apply for visas based on their relationship to you.

  22. Specific Purpose or Event Work Visa

    Your offer, letter or schedule must: set out the length of time your candidate will need to be in New Zealand for the specific purpose or event; describe the specific purpose or event your candidate will need to be in New Zealand for. Include your guarantee that you'll cover the cost of your candidate's return home, if they're unable to.

  23. Changing the conditions of a work visa or applying for a Job Change

    Follow these steps. Download, print and complete the application form for a variation of conditions. Use our online tool to find out where to send your application and how much it costs. Send in your application with the fee and any supporting evidence. Application for a Variation of Conditions or a Variation of Travel Conditions (INZ 1020) PDF ...

  24. English translations will be required for visitor visa supporting

    Ensuring that documents for your visitor visa application are provided in English helps us process it more efficiently. ... A person who remains in New Zealand after their visa expires becomes unlawfully in New Zealand and is therefore liable for deportation. ... 2021 Resident Visa Accredited Employer Work Visa Child visas Partner visas Parent ...