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What happens to my visa if our relationship ends during the application?

If your relationship genuinely ends while a partnership application is being decided, that application can no longer succeed, because a current genuine and stable relationship is the foundation of the visa. You are also expected to tell Immigration New Zealand if your circumstances change, as your application is assessed on the basis that the relationship is ongoing.

If you already hold a partnership-based visa and the relationship ends, you no longer meet the conditions of that visa. It will not usually be cancelled automatically overnight, but you will need to look at your options - whether another visa category fits, or whether you need to make arrangements to leave. There can be limited exceptions, for example in situations involving family violence, which have their own special provisions.

This is a stressful situation and the right move depends heavily on your specific circumstances, including any children involved. It is well worth talking to MyLaw early so you understand your options before making any decisions.

Answered by Michael Yoon, Immigration Lawyer, MyLaw.

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This is general information, not advice on your situation, and reading it does not create a solicitor-client relationship. For advice on your case, talk to MyLaw.