A previous partner visa cast doubt on a new relationship
A woman married to a New Zealand citizen had her partnership visa declined because Immigration New Zealand did not accept the relationship was genuine, weighing heavily that she had earlier come to New Zealand on a partnership visa with a different partner. When her work visa expired and no interim visa was granted, she faced deportation, with a young New Zealand-born child.
What happened
- She was married to a New Zealand citizen, but had previously held a partnership visa with a different partner.
- Immigration New Zealand declined the new partnership visa, not satisfied the relationship was genuine, and refused an interim visa when her work visa expired.
- Her residence application was suspended on the basis she was no longer lawful, and she was directed to leave or face deportation.
As reported by NZ Herald, 6 April 2024: “'Cruel and cold-hearted': Mum and 18-month-old daughter face family break-up following INZ visa refusal”.
The lesson
A prior partnership visa with someone else does not bar a new application, but it does invite close scrutiny of whether the new relationship is genuine. The evidence has to be strong enough to put that doubt to rest. And once a temporary visa lapses without an interim visa, a relationship case can collapse into an overstay and deportation fight, so managing status and timing is as important as the relationship evidence itself.
The visa in this story
Partner of a New Zealander Work VisaAn open work visa for the partner of a New Zealand citizen or resident — work for any employer while you live together in New Zealand.
Don’t let this be your story
Most partnership visa heartbreak is avoidable with the right advice before you apply. Have a lawyer assess your situation honestly, backed by our money-back guarantee.