New Zealand Expands Work Rights for Partners of Skilled Migrants

Starting December 2, 2024, New Zealand will implement a significant change to its immigration policy, granting open work rights to more partners of migrant workers. This move, designed to alleviate labour shortages and boost workforce retention, will allow eligible partners to work for any employer across New Zealand.

The Immigration New Zealand (INZ) announcement highlights the government’s commitment to attracting and retaining skilled workers in key industries. This updated policy enables partners of specific migrant visa holders to work in New Zealand without restrictions on their employment conditions.

Eligibility for Open Work Rights

According to INZ, the expanded open work rights will apply to partners meeting one of the following conditions as of December 2, 2024:

1. Partners of AEWV Holders in High-Skill Roles: Partners of Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders employed in New Zealand or Australia under the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) Levels 1 to 3, earning at least NZD 25.29 (USD 14.92) per hour, are eligible.

2. Existing AEWV Partner Visa Support (as of June 24, 2024): Partners of AEWV holders earning NZD 25.29 (USD 14.92) per hour who were already supporting a partner’s work visa application by June 24, 2024, are included.

3. Partners of Essential Skills Visa Holders: Those married to or in a partnership with Essential Skills work visa holders earning a minimum of NZD 25.29 (USD 14.92) per hour qualify for open work rights.

Inclusion of Partners in ANZSCO Levels 4-5 Jobs

The policy adjustments extend to partners of Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders working in ANZSCO Levels 4-5 roles if they meet certain wage thresholds:

High Wage Roles: Those earning NZD 47.41 (USD 27.97) or more per hour, equating to 150% of New Zealand’s median wage.

Green List Positions: Partners of AEWV holders in Green List roles with a wage of NZD 31.61 (USD 18.65) or higher are eligible, provided they fulfil Green List criteria.

Transport and Care Sector Roles: Partners of AEWV holders in Transport or Care Sector Agreement roles can qualify with a wage of at least NZD 25.29 (USD 14.92) per hour or the amount specified by sector agreements, whichever is higher.

The ANZSCO system classifies occupations by skill level, from one (most skilled) to five (least skilled), aligning visa policies with the country’s workforce needs.

Flexibility for Current Partner Visa Holders

Partners holding work visas with specific employment conditions will have the option to switch to open work rights if their partner’s job meets the new eligibility standards. Those eligible under the updated rules can apply for a variation of conditions or a new work visa starting December 2, 2024.

Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa (MEPV)

Starting October 31, New Zealand will introduce important updates to its visa policies for foreign workers aimed at addressing migrant exploitation. Among these changes is the discontinuation of the second Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa (MEPV), which was previously available to workers who reported cases of exploitation.

A Step Towards a More Welcoming Immigration Policy

This significant change in immigration policy is aimed at addressing labour shortages across various industries in New Zealand. By allowing partners of skilled migrants to work freely, the government hopes to attract and retain top talent and boost economic growth.

Positive Impact on Skilled Migration

Act’s immigration spokeswoman, Parmjeet Parmar, praised the move, stating that it would help employers retain valuable staff. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford emphasized that the government is overturning a near-ban on partners of migrant workers, restoring work rights to those who contribute to the country’s economy.

With this relaxed immigration policy, New Zealand is positioning itself as a more attractive destination for skilled workers and their families.