Exciting changes are coming to New Zealand’s Partner of a Worker Work Visa scheme! From 2 December 2024, partners of Accredited Employer and Essential Skills work visa holders will gain open work rights, offering more freedom and flexibility. This means you can work for any employer and without the need to meet the median wage requirement or for the employer to be accredited.
These changes will help reunite families and ease financial stress by allowing households to have two incomes. It’s a fantastic move that not only supports families but also helps New Zealand attract skilled workers to fill labour shortages in critical sectors.
Who qualifies for open work rights?
· Partners of Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders in ANZSCO Skill Level 1-3 jobs, earning at least NZD$25.29 per hour (80% of the median wage).
· Partners of AEWV holders who were already supporting a partner’s work visa as of 26 June 2024 (regardless of their ANZSCO level), provided the AEWV holder earns at least $25.29 per hour.
· Partners of Essential Skills visa holders earning at least $25.29 per hour.
If you need more points, relevant skilled work experience in New Zealand can be added to your total, allowing for flexibility in how you qualify. This redesigned SMC system aims to balance opportunities for professionals across various sectors—whether you’re a highly educated specialist or a skilled tradesperson.
Additionally, partners of AEWV holders in ANZSCO Skill Levels 4-5 roles can also qualify for open work rights if they:
· Earn at least $47.41 per hour (150% of the median wage), or
· Earn at least $31.61 per hour in a Green List role and meet Green List requirements, or
· Earn at least $25.29 per hour in Transport or Care Sector roles under sector agreements (or higher if required by the agreement).
What does this mean for current visa holders? Partners who hold work visas with specific job conditions can apply to change their visa to open work rights, provided their partner meets the new eligibility criteria.
What Are Open Work Rights?
Open work rights give you the freedom to work for any employer, in any role, at any pay rate—provided it’s above the current minimum wage of $23.15 per hour. Whether you want to work full-time, part-time, or casually, open work rights let you choose the option that fits your lifestyle.
But that’s not all—open work rights also allow you to be self-employed or start your own small business, giving you the flexibility to follow your passions while contributing to the economy. It’s about empowering you to work on your own terms!
This policy shift is a significant step towards making life easier for migrant families while addressing labour shortages across various industries in New Zealand.
The Government has advised that further changes will be coming soon to help migrants and families. Please watch this space and we will keep you up to date as it happens.
Find the official announcements here:
Open work rights return for partners of high skilled migrants | Beehive.govt.nz
Open work rights for partners of migrant workers | Immigration New Zealand
Contact us
If you think you might be eligible or want to explore your options, get in touch with us at service@woburn.co.nz to discuss your pathway forward.
Woburn International is New Zealand’s leading specialist in NZ immigration, skilled migrant placements, relocation, emigration, international remuneration and cultural awareness. Contact us to find out how we can help you move to New Zealand.
