F3.5 Evidential requirements for de facto partners (26/07/1999)

Immigration Act 1987 s 13B(3)(e)

1. Evidence supporting an application by a de facto partner for New Zealand residence should include as many documents as are necessary to show that the relationship is genuine and stable, and of the duration claimed.
2. The items listed in F3.5.1 to F3.5.10 below are examples of relevant evidence: other documents may also be relevant.

F3.5.1 Evidence that de facto partner is New Zealand citizen or resident

1. Evidence that a de facto partner is a New Zealand citizen may include but is not limited to original or certified copies of:
   • a valid New Zealand passport, or
   • a Certificate of New Zealand Citizenship, or
   • a recent official statement of citizenship from the Department of Internal Affairs, or
   • a New Zealand birth certificate.
2. Evidence that a de facto partner is a New Zealand resident, may include but is not limited to original or certified copies of:
   • a current residence permit, or
   • a current New Zealand returning resident's visa, or
   • a valid Australian passport.

F3.5.5 Evidence that New Zealand de facto partner supports application

A principal applicant must provide a signed letter from the New Zealand de facto partner confirming support for the application and, if requested by the NZIS, the New Zealand partner must agree in writing that they will give financial support for the first 24 months of residence.

F3.5.10 Evidence of living together in a genuine and stable relationship

1. A principal applicant under the de facto partner policy must provide evidence that they have been living with their partner in a genuine and stable relationship for at least 2 years immediately before the application is assessed.
2. Evidence that the principal applicant and de facto partner have been living together may include but is not limited to original or certified copies of documents showing shared accommodation such as:
   • a joint mortgage
   • a joint tenancy agreement or rent book
   • correspondence (including postmarked envelopes) addressed to both principal applicant and de facto partner at the same address.
3. If a couple has been living separately for any period during the two-year qualifying period, they should provide evidence of the length of the periods of separation and the reasons for them.
4. Evidence about whether the relationship is genuine and stable may include but is not limited to original or certified copies of:
   • birth certificates of their children
   • evidence of communication between the couple
   • proof of joint assets
   • proof of shared income
   • proof of shared bank accounts
   • photographs of the couple together
   • documents indicating public recognition of the relationship.
5. Evidence about these matters can be considered up until the date of final decision.

Effective 26/07/1999