Culturally Arranged Marriage

If you're getting married (or have recently married) a New Zealand citizen or resident through a culturally arranged marriage, you may be eligible for a 3-month visitor visa to live together in New Zealand.

 Who Can Apply

You can apply for this visa if:

• You’re married or planning to marry a New Zealand citizen or residence class visa holder
• Your marriage is arranged under a recognised cultural tradition
• The arrangement was made by people other than the couple (e.g. parents, elders, matchmakers)
• The marriage is intended to be long-term and exclusive
• Your New Zealand partner:
  • Supports your visa application
  • Is eligible under partnership visa rules
  • Meets character requirements
  • Has no legal barriers to marrying you (e.g. not already married, not a close relative)

How Long Is the Visa Valid?

• The visa is valid for 3 months from the date of arrival in New Zealand
• If you’re already in New Zealand, the visa will be valid for 3 months from your arrival date

 If You’re Getting Married in New Zealand

You must prove that:

• You genuinely intend to marry within 3 months of arriving
• The person you’re marrying is a NZ citizen or resident
• The marriage follows a recognised cultural tradition
• You will leave New Zealand if the marriage does not take place

If You’re Already Married Before Arrival

You must show that:

• The marriage ceremony genuinely took place
• It followed a recognised cultural tradition
• The person you married is a New Zealand citizen or resident
• You intend to live together in a genuine and stable relationship
• You apply within 3 months of the wedding

What Documents Are Required?

• A completed INZ 1146 support form from your New Zealand partner confirming:
  • They support your application
  • They meet all eligibility and character requirements
  • They meet the minimum criteria for recognition of the partnership
• Proof that your marriage is culturally arranged, such as:
  • Messages or letters between families, go-betweens, or matchmakers
  • Photos or documents showing a publicly recognised ceremony
  • Written confirmation from community or cultural leaders about the tradition

Do I Need an Onward Ticket?

Not if:

• Your New Zealand partner (or another eligible sponsor) formally sponsors you using the correct INZ sponsorship form
• The sponsor can meet the sponsorship obligations as per immigration rules

Important Notes

• The relationship must not violate NZ laws (e.g. you must both be legally free to marry)
• Close relatives cannot marry under NZ law (see prohibited degrees under the Marriage Act 1955)
• This visa does not allow work rights
• You may be able to apply for a partnership-based visa after marriage, if eligible

 Unsure if your marriage qualifies?
Talk to JD Immigration for expert guidance and stress-free support with culturally arranged marriage visas.