Partner of a Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Applicant Work Visa — New Zealand

The Partner of a Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Applicant Work Visa is designed for spouses or de facto partners of individuals applying for New Zealand residence under the Skilled Migrant Category. This visa allows partners to live in New Zealand while the main applicant's residence application is being processed — with the added benefit of open work rights for most applicants.

It offers a valuable pathway for families to settle together, allowing the partner to work for any employer without sector restrictions in most cases. However, eligibility conditions can vary based on the skilled migrant applicant’s salary level and occupation classification.

• Be in a genuine and stable relationship (spouse, civil union, or de facto partner) with a person who has applied under the Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa.
• Provide sufficient evidence of the relationship, such as marriage certificates, joint financial documents, shared accommodation agreements, or relationship communication history.
• The main applicant (Skilled Migrant) must meet INZ’s employment criteria, including job offer, income, and ANZSCO classification.
• Meet health and character requirements as per Immigration New Zealand standards.

• If the Skilled Migrant Applicant holds a valid skilled job offer in New Zealand that meets the salary threshold (currently 1.5 times the median wage or as specified under the SMC points system), the partner will be granted an Open Work Visa.
• The principal applicant’s job must be on the ANZSCO Level 1, 2, or 3 list or qualify as a skilled role under the current Skilled Migrant Category rules.
• If the principal applicant is employed in a role at ANZSCO Level 4 or 5, or below the salary threshold, the partner may face additional scrutiny or may not be eligible for an open work visa under this category.

• The Partner of SMC Applicant Work Visa is typically granted for 12 months initially, with the possibility of extensions while the SMC residence application is being processed.
• Once the principal applicant’s residence is approved, the partner can apply for a Partner of a New Zealand Resident Visa.
• Processing times for partner work visas are usually 6 to 12 weeks, depending on case complexity and Immigration New Zealand’s assessment workload.