Can we apply for residence if we have not lived together for 12 months?

Generally no. Partnership residence usually requires at least 12 months of living together in a genuine and stable relationship. A partnership work visa is the more realistic first step.

Will applying "too early" hurt our chances?

Applying for the right visa for your stage is not a problem. The risk is applying for residence before you can show the living-together history it requires, which can lead to a decline.

How do we prove our relationship is genuine when it is still new?

Focus on quality of evidence - a clear timeline, proof you live together, shared finances and consistent communication. MyLaw can review your evidence before you apply.

Applying for a partnership visa after a short relationship

If you have not been together long, or have not yet lived together for 12 months, you are not out of options - you simply may not be ready for residence yet. Partnership residence generally requires 12 months of living together, but a partnership work visa or visitor visa is usually the right first step, letting you be together now while you build the evidence and history you will need later.

You are a genuine couple, but your relationship is still young or you have not been living under the same roof for a full year. You are worried that immigration will think it is "too soon" and that applying now will hurt your chances.

The visa that usually fitsPartner of a New Zealander Work Visa

An open work visa for the partner of a New Zealand citizen or resident — work for any employer while you live together in New Zealand.

What to do

1Understand the difference between the visas - residence generally needs around 12 months of living together, while a partnership work or visitor visa can often be granted earlier on a genuine and stable relationship.
2Start a partnership work visa application so you can be together in New Zealand now, rather than waiting until you qualify for residence.
3Keep building a clear relationship timeline and evidence of living together from day one - tenancy agreements, joint bills, photos and messages all help.
4Avoid rushing into a residence application before you have the living-together history, as a thin application is more likely to be declined.
5Talk to MyLaw for an honest assessment of which visa fits where you are now and how to set yourselves up for residence later.

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Common questions

Can we apply for residence if we have not lived together for 12 months?: Generally no. Partnership residence usually requires at least 12 months of living together in a genuine and stable relationship. A partnership work visa is the more realistic first step.
Will applying "too early" hurt our chances?: Applying for the right visa for your stage is not a problem. The risk is applying for residence before you can show the living-together history it requires, which can lead to a decline.
How do we prove our relationship is genuine when it is still new?: Focus on quality of evidence - a clear timeline, proof you live together, shared finances and consistent communication. MyLaw can review your evidence before you apply.

Related guides

This page is general information, not immigration or legal advice. For advice on your situation, talk to MyLaw. Reading it does not create a solicitor–client relationship.