MrsCakey

Hi,

My husband is a Kiwi and I am British. We are currently residing in the UK. I'm in the process of completing my application for Residency and I just discovered that I need to send my application and UK passport to Auckland. Does that sound right?

I need my passport for a trip in June so am worried I won't get it returned in time.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

escapedtonz

Yes. It will be handled by the INZ office in Auckland and it will (or should) be returned almost immediately. They don't keep hold of them for any longer than absolutely necessary.
Maybe put a note in the passport in the package that informs Immigration that you need the passport back asap as you have an overseas trip planned on xx date.

MrsFychan

processing time for the partnership visa is 4mths or more.

https://www.immigration.govt.nz/abou...sa-application

SO I would say hold onto it, they will only send it back once the visa process is complete to put the visa in it.

MrsCakey

Thanks guys!

I did see the processing time at 4 months. I've seen on other threads that some people have sent certified copies, so will try that route and hold onto the passort until they tell me they absolutely need it.

escapedtonz

I'd check with Immigration before sending a certified copy. They may not accept it for a passport.
From what I believe Immigration don't hold on to passports or other equally important documents. It is much too risky for them. Once they receive them they check them ASAP and then take copies for the file and return the originals. They don't hold on to them for months while the visa is being processed. If you are successful they will ask for them to be returned along with any final fees for application of the visa stickers.

MrsCakey

That is good to know. Thanks. I'll see if I can get hold of someone in London office to clarify.