On this page
- Quick summary
- Overview (What is Form INZ 1198?)
- Context and workflow
- Requirements snapshot
- Failure prevention (What causes Form INZ 1198 rejections?)
- What it asks for (What does Form INZ 1198 ask for?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form INZ 1198?)
- Checklist (What is the Form INZ 1198 checklist?)
- Fees
- Processing times
- Where to file
- Form sections (What sections does Form INZ 1198 have?)
- Key terms
- Strategy tips
- Mistake severity
- Examples (What are examples for Form INZ 1198?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form INZ 1198?)
- Edge cases and variations
- In-depth guidance
- Scenarios
- Key differentiators
- Why it matters
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
Quick summary
#New Zealand citizens and permanent residents use INZ 1198 to petition for eligible family members per INZ requirements. For related guidance, see the New Zealand Citizenship page. For related guidance, see the Returning Resident's Visa page.
PARTNER-RESIDENT: Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa
Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.
Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations
Overview (What is Form INZ 1198?)
#This visa not only allows for indefinite residence but also opens opportunities for employment and education in New Zealand, making it a valuable pathway for partners of New Zealand citizens and residents. For related guidance, see the Visitor Visa page. For related guidance, see the Sponsorship Form for Residence page.
First page of INZ 1198 form
Source: INZ 1198 online portal
Context and workflow
#Processing times for the INZ 1198 form can vary depending on the category. Always consult the official INZ 1198 processing time tool for the most accurate information.
Why this matters
- This form helps confirm that the application matches the program’s requirements and checklist.
- Small mismatches inside INZ 1198 (or between INZ 1198 and supporting evidence) can force rework later in processing.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Central application in the immigration process for this benefit
- May require supporting documents and evidence
- Processing leads to a decision on the requested benefit
- INZ 1198 is commonly filed alongside Form INZ-1024.
Who uses it
The INZ 1198 form is for individuals applying for a Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa, allowing them to live, work, and study in New Zealand indefinitely. It is intended for those who have a partner who is a New Zealand citizen or resident. Applicants must be living with their partner in a genuine and stable relationship for at least 12 months and have their visa application supported by their partner. Additionally, the partner may need to provide evidence of their New Zealand citizenship or residency, and a completed Partnership Support Form for Residence. This form is used by applicants filing with INZ to demonstrate their relationship and meet the requirements of this visa.
When it is used
- PARTNER-RESIDENT: Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa
- When applying for Partner-resident — INZ 1198 is typically required as part of the application
- Partner-work — Partner work visa often precedes partner residence
- When filing INZ 1198 alongside INZ-1024 (Sponsorship form required)
- As an alternative to INZ-1000 — use INZ 1198 when Skilled Migrant residence as alternative pathway
Requirements snapshot
#- Formally requests a change in immigration status or benefit
- Documents eligibility for the requested benefit
- Creates a record of the application for processing
Failure prevention (What causes Form INZ 1198 rejections?)
#Substantive weaknesses
- Insufficient supporting evidence
- Inconsistencies between forms and documents
- Failure to address all eligibility criteria
- To avoid missing proof of relationship or required documents: Include all required evidence per instructions; match information to civil documents.
What it asks for (What does Form INZ 1198 ask for?)
#- Proof of a genuine and stable relationship with your partner.
- Police certificates to demonstrate good character.
- Medical examination and chest X-ray to prove good health.
- Current immigration status and arrival card information
- Signature and passport-style photographs
- Your full legal name as it appears on official documents
- Your date and place of birth
- Your current passport number and issuance details
- Your passport validity and expiration information
- Documentation related to: Evidence of your partner's New Zealand citizenship or residency
- Documentation related to: it with your application, to show evidence of your relationship with your partner
- Documentation related to: their:New Zealand passport New Zealand birth certificatecertificate of New Zealand citizenship, or New Zealand residence
Sources for this section
What you need (What do you need for Form INZ 1198?)
#- The current edition of INZ 1198
- Applicant identification documents and photographs
- Evidence of your partner's New Zealand citizenship or residency.
- It with your application, to show evidence of your relationship with your partner
- Their:New Zealand passport New Zealand birth certificatecertificate of New Zealand citizenship, or New Zealand residence visa
- An original or a certified copy of your evidence
- Complete the application form and attach all supporting documents.
- Not including evidence of a genuine and stable relationship.
- Copy of your filed or approved INZ-1024 (Sponsorship form required)
Sources for this section
Checklist (What is the Form INZ 1198 checklist?)
#- Download the current INZ 1198 and instructions from the official INZ 1198 website
- Review the official INZ 1198 instructions before filing
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of INZ 1198
- Sign and date the INZ 1198 form, ensuring all necessary supporting documents are included.
Sources for this section
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing FeeSubmit your application and pay the fee. | See official schedule |
Can the Form INZ 1198 fee be waived?
Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.
What happens if I submit the wrong fee?
INZ will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.
Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility. For related guidance, see Skilled Migrant Category Expression of Interest.
Fees change; always verify on INZ.
Processing times
#| Category | Processing time |
|---|---|
| Visitor and Short-term | 3 to 4 weeksas of February 2026 |
- Processing time for INZ 1198 under "Visitor and Short-term": 3 to 4 weeks (as of February 2026).
- Processing times for INZ 1198 vary by category and processing location. Verify current processing times with the issuing authority.
- Processing times differ significantly by eligibility category. Initial applications, renewals, and replacements each go through different adjudication queues, and some categories consistently take longer than others.
- Processing times for this form vary by INZ office and current workload. Verify current processing times with INZ.
- While pending: track your case status using your application number, respond promptly to any requests for additional documents, and update your contact information with INZ if it changes.
Where to file
#Submit your application at the designated INZ office, embassy, or consulate. Check the official website for the location with jurisdiction over your place of residence.
Submit application
Submit your application at the INZ office or designated embassy/consulate in your country of residence. Check the official instructions for the correct location.
Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official INZ website before submitting.
Form sections (What sections does Form INZ 1198 have?)
#Personal Details
Applicant and family information.
- Full name and date of birth for all applicants
- Nationality and passport details
- Immigration history
Skilled Employment
Current or offered employment.
- Employer name and location
- Job title and ANZSCO code
- Salary and employment terms
- Duration in the role
Qualifications
Educational credentials.
- Qualification title and institution
- NZQA assessment reference
- Year of completion
Points Summary
Detailed points claim.
- Age, qualifications, experience, employment points
- Partner and bonus points claims
- Total points claimed
Key terms
#- Genuine and stable relationship
- A relationship that is real and lasting, not just for immigration purposes.In this form: Applicants must prove they have been living with their partner in such a relationship for at least 12 months.
Strategy tips
#Mistake severity
#| Mistake type | Severity | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Missing proof of relationship or required documents | Rejection | Include all required evidence per instructions; match information to civil documents. |
Examples (What are examples for Form INZ 1198?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits a complete INZ 1198 form with a detailed Partnership Support Form for Residence, including joint travel itineraries and shared utility bills, leading to a thorough and efficient assessment.
- Strong application: A couple provides a comprehensive portfolio of their relationship, including photos from family gatherings and a joint lease agreement, alongside a recent police certificate, ensuring a clear demonstration of their genuine and stable partnership.
- Weak application: An applicant submits INZ 1198 without the Partnership Support Form for Residence and only provides a few personal photos, resulting in a request for further evidence and delays in processing.
- A citizen files INZ 1198 to petition for their spouse to immigrate
- A permanent resident uses INZ 1198 to sponsor their unmarried child under 21
- An applicant in the Partner-resident category files INZ 1198 as part of their immigration process
Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form INZ 1198?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- Requirements may differ based on your specific situation
- Some applicants assume that living separately for a short period disqualifies them; however, short separations may be acceptable if the relationship remains genuine and stable.
- Filing INZ 1198 allows the beneficiary to immediately enter or remain in the country — The petition only establishes the relationship. The beneficiary must separately apply for a visa or change of status.
- All family relationships qualify for immigration sponsorship — Only certain family relationships are eligible. The sponsoring relative must be a citizen or permanent resident, and the specific relationship must be in a qualifying category.
Edge cases and variations
#- If you are asked to submit or update INZ 1198, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.
In-depth guidance
#How to complete this form reliably
Treat INZ 1198 as part of a system, not a standalone document. Most delays happen when details conflict across the form, supporting documents, and other parts of the application package. Before you start, gather the documents you will reference and decide which one is the source of truth for each field.
Fill the form in one sitting if possible. Partially-completed forms are where inconsistent edits creep in. When you finish, review each section and ask "what evidence in my package proves this statement?"
Scenarios
#An IT professional applies for a Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa using INZ 1198 after receiving an invitation from the EOI pool with 180 points.
Residence visa granted. The applicant becomes a New Zealand permanent resident with full work and social rights.
The SMC is the primary skilled migration pathway. Ensure your EOI points are accurate and supported by evidence before the invitation expires.
An applicant receives an SMC invitation but their employment experience cannot be verified because a previous employer has closed.
Processing delayed while alternative evidence is gathered (payslips, tax records, colleague statutory declarations).
Gather evidence from all former employers in advance. If a company has closed, alternative evidence such as payslips, tax records, and colleague declarations can substitute.
An applicant claims bonus points for employment in a regional area but the employer is based in Auckland.
Regional bonus points removed. Total points drop below the selection threshold and the application may be declined.
Points claims are verified during processing. Only claim points you can fully evidence. False or unsubstantiated claims can lead to decline or character concerns.
Key differentiators
#- Unlike General Resident Visa: Specifically for partners of New Zealand citizens or residents, focusing on the relationship aspect.
- Unlike Form INZ 1024: Sponsorship Form for Residence: Filed together: Sponsorship form required (Partner pathway)
- Unlike Form INZ 1000: Skilled Migrant Category Expression of Interest: Alternative option: Skilled Migrant residence as alternative pathway (Partner pathway)
Why it matters
#Next steps
#- Await receipt confirmation from the agency
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
- Keep copies of all submitted materials
Verification
#This guide is based on official INZ instructions for the INZ 1198 form and is updated with changes in form editions or filing rules. Always check the official INZ website to confirm current requirements.
FAQs
What other forms are typically filed together with INZ 1198?
Review the official INZ 1198 instructions for your specific situation. The specific forms required vary by case type. Review the instructions for your particular immigration category to determine which forms must be submitted together.
What are the most common errors when completing INZ 1198, and what happens if it is rejected?
Common issues with INZ 1198 include: • Insufficient evidence of the claimed relationship • Inconsistencies between the petition and supporting documents • Missing information about derivative applicants • Sponsor or accredited employer status documentation not current Carefully organize your evidence package to address each requirement.
What happens if I make an error on INZ 1198 or need to correct something after filing?
If your filing is accepted but later found deficient, you may receive a request for evidence (RFE). The specific timing depends on your case type and circumstances. Generally, forms should be filed according to the sequence outlined in the official instructions for your immigration category.
Can I file INZ 1198 if I've already left the country or my situation has changed?
Consult the official INZ 1198 instructions for comprehensive guidance tailored to your specific immigration situation and requirements.
What supporting documents do I need for INZ 1198?
If your partner holds New Zealand residence via an Australian passport, Australian residence, or a resident return visa, they are required to reside in New Zealand. You may need to provide evidence of your partner's New Zealand citizenship or residency. For the most up-to-date requirements, consult the official INZ 1198 instructions.
Do I need to provide a mailing address for INZ 1198?
You need a reliable mailing address for notices and card delivery. If you do not have a stable address, INZ allows alternatives (e.g., a representative's address or safe mailing options) per official rules — review the instructions for your situation.
Who is eligible to file INZ 1198?
The INZ 1198 form is designed for individuals seeking a Partner of a New Zealander Resident Visa, which permits indefinite living, working, and studying in New Zealand. This application is specifically for those whose partner holds New Zealand citizenship or residency. For the most up-to-date requirements, consult the official INZ 1198 instructions.
When will INZ 1198 be processed and what is the workflow?
Processing timing for INZ 1198 varies depending on the filing category, processing location, and current application volume. Standard processing can range from a few weeks to several months. Before submitting, check the official INZ processing times tool for the most current estimates. After filing, monitor your case status and consider whether expedited options are available.
What are common mistakes when filing INZ 1198?
Common mistakes include submitting incomplete forms, missing required signatures, paying incorrect fees, and failing to include all required supporting documents. Even minor errors can cause significant delays or outright rejection of your application. Double-check every section, verify fee amounts on the official INZ schedule, and review the instructions thoroughly before submitting.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
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