SOWP Outside New Zealand

Want to join your spouse in New Zealand and work legally? The New Zealand Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) allows partners of eligible visa holders to live and work in New Zealand — and Globexa Immigration makes the process smooth and stress-free.

If your husband or wife is studying or working in New Zealand, you may qualify to apply from outside New Zealand and reunite with them.

1. What is a New Zealand Spouse Open Work Permit?

The SOWP allows the spouse/partner of a New Zealand visa holder to:

✔ Live in New Zealand
✔ Work full-time for any employer
✔ Gain international work experience
✔ Stay with their partner during studies or employment

Unlike employer-sponsored permits, this is an open work visa, meaning you are not restricted to one employer.

2. Who Can Apply for SOWP from Outside New Zealand?

You may be eligible if your spouse in New Zealand is:

1. A Student Visa Holder (Eligible Courses)

Studying a qualification that leads to a post-study work visa
Enrolled in a course linked to skills shortage occupations
Studying Level 7+ or approved Level 4–6 programs (in certain cases)

2. A Work Visa Holder

Working in a skilled job
Holding an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Earning required salary thresholds (in some cases)

Globexa Immigration checks the main applicant’s course and job details to confirm your eligibility.

3. Documents Required for New Zealand SOWP

Typical documents include:

✔ Valid Passport
✔ Marriage Certificate / Proof of Relationship
✔ Wedding & relationship photos
✔ Communication proof (chat, call logs)
✔ Joint financial documents (if available)
✔ Spouse’s visa copy
✔ Spouse’s job letter or offer letter
✔ Academic details (if spouse is a student)
✔ Medical & Police clearance

Strong relationship proof is key — and Globexa Immigration helps you prepare a convincing file.

4. Work Rights Under SOWP

With this visa, you can:

1. Work full-time
2. Work for any employer
3. Change jobs freely
4. Gain NZ work experience

This is a big advantage compared to many other countries’ dependent visas.

5. What About Children?

Dependent children can also apply for visas:

Visitor Visa
Student Visa (school-age children)

We handle family applications together to keep your file strong and organized.

6. Processing Time

Processing times can vary depending on:

Application location
Completeness of documents
Immigration workload

Submitting a well-prepared file through Globexa Immigration helps avoid delays.

7. Common Reasons for Refusal

Many SOWP applications get refused due to:

1. Weak relationship proof
2. Incorrect course selection of main applicant
3. Insufficient financial evidence
4. Incomplete documentation

Our experts make sure your file is decision-ready.

Why Choose Globexa Immigration for Your SOWP?

✔ Relationship document guidance
✔ Eligibility assessment
✔ Proper visa category selection
✔ Strong cover letter & file preparation
✔ Family visa planning
✔ End-to-end support

We focus on building a strong and genuine case.