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The ultimate guide to getting a dependent visa in New Zealand

Other Pathways | Dependent Visas

Studying abroad is always exciting. You are going to a new country, place, people and everything else. It will be even more exciting if you are going there with your family. New Zealand has become famous in recent years among students. The country has gained popularity because of its world-class education and beautiful landscapes. If you plan on going To New Zealand with your dependents, this is the guide for you.

Study Abroad in New Zealand: What is a Dependent Visa

Before we get into all the details of getting a dependent visa, let us understand what is a dependent visa. A dependent visa is the kind of visa that allows family members of the main visa holder to enter the country. It is issued to the immediate family members, i.e., wife, children, or partner. A dependent visa is also a way to keep family members together. Being together can make the journey of studying abroad more memorable. There are some restrictions on dependent visas, which may vary from country to country. 

Study Abroad in New Zealand: Types of Dependent Visas 

There are different kinds of dependent visas. You can apply for one of these visas for your family members so that you can stay with them. They are:

1. Visitor Visa:  The visitor visa will allow your spouse and child to visit you in New Zealand. They can also stay with you for the duration of your student visa. You can simultaneously apply for this visa for your partner and children on the basis of your student visa. Your partner will only get a visa once yours is approved. They cannot work in New Zealand on this visa.

2. Work Visa: This visa allows your partner to work in New Zealand. The duration will be the same as your student visa.

3. Student Visa:  You can opt for this visa if you have children. It will allow you to admit your children to any primary or secondary school while you are there.

4. Skilled Migrant Dependent Visa:  This visa allows you to live, work, and study in New Zealand. These visa holders are people who have the skills that are required in New Zealand. A skilled worker-dependent visa allows you to include your partner and children up to 24 years of age in your application. This visa is available on invitation only. 

Study Abroad in New Zealand: Dependent Visa Criteria

There are some requirements to fulfill if you plan to apply for a dependent visa for your spouse, partner, or children. The requirements are more or less the same for all kinds of visas. 

•  The first and foremost requirement is to prove that your spouse/partner and you have a genuine relationship. In the case of children, you must submit Proof of the relationship. 

•  In the case of a work visa, you have to have Proof of your living together. You should have Proof of 

      1. How long have you been together?

      2. Proof of photos, emails, etc., of you and your spouse or partner.

      3. Proof of finance sharing.

•  If you are underage and moving with a partner, you should have your parents/guardians' support.

•  Your character matters if you apply for your spouse or partner's visa. You should not be involved in any of the following acts:

     1. Not involved in any domestic violence

     2. Or any untoward sexual act

•  To be able to apply for a dependent visa, 

      1. The student must pursue a level 7 or 8 qualification on the green list. 

      2. A level 7 on the qualifications is eligible for a post-study work visa list.

      3. A level 9 or 10 qualification.

•  You must have $ 4,200 NZ in your bank account. 

•  For a skilled worker-dependent visa, you will have to satisfy some requirements for a skilled worker-dependent visa. You and your dependent must know the English language. 

Study Abroad in New Zealand: Who cannot Apply for a Dependent Visa.

Certain limitations are put on Dependent visas. Certain visa holders cannot apply for a work, visitor, or student visa. They're:

•  A working holiday visa holder

•  A fishing crew Work visa holder

•  A silver Fern Job Search Visa holder

•  A Limited Visa Holder of RSE or SSE schemes.

•  A Diplomat Work Visa Holder's Domestic staff.

Study Abroad in New Zealand: Documents Required

Once you meet all the eligibility criteria for applying for a dependent visa, the documents are next.

•  Proof of identity is important; a Passport should be provided.

•  Filled in visa application form.

•  Receipt of the visa application fee.

•  One passport-size photograph if applying online.

•  Results of medical examination to prove that the applicant is in good health.

•  The Receipt of health insurance.

•  In the case of children, you will have to submit Proof that they are dependent:

•  Children should be 17 and below.

•  If they are 18-19, then Proof of financial dependencies like school fee receipts, daily expenses proof, etc.

•  In the case of a skilled worker-dependent visa, you need to have the following:

•  Proof of qualifications, work experience, and occupational registration.

•  Proof of relationships of the dependent mentioned in the application.

 

Study Abroad in New Zealand: Cost of Visa

The cost of the dependent visa for New Zealand may vary in different aspects. The factors that affect the cost are the type of visa, country of origin, online or offline application, etc. The cost of New Zealand's dependent visa can come to approx. NZD 2750. There are some additional costs attached to the visa application as well. They are paying for police verifications, medical exams, and others. A dependent visa meaning it allows you to take your spouse and children with you. Children can also study and work here if they are old enough.

Conclusion

This article included as much information as possible related to dependent visas. Suppose anyone with a family is planning to study abroad; the road is going to be filled with a little work. But once done, your stay with your family in New Zealand will be fun and memorable. New Zealand is a country that welcomes international students and is friendly. Additionally, staying there with your loved ones will add to the experience. You need to decide which type of visa suits your dependents the best. You can also get in touch with our experts at New Zealand Gateways to help you plan these elements in a much smoother manner.