Synopsis:
New Zealand will extend open work rights to partners of migrant workers starting December 2, 2024, allowing them to work for any employer and enhancing family support for skilled migrants. Eligible partners must be associated with Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) or Essential Skills work visa holders. AEWV holders must work in ANZSCO levels 1-3 roles with a minimum wage of NZD $25.29 per hour, or have been supporting a partner’s work visa by June 24, 2024, under the same wage criteria. Open work rights also apply to partners of AEWV holders in ANZSCO levels 4-5 roles if they earn NZD $47.41 per hour or NZD $31.61 for roles on the Green List. This policy reverses previous restrictions on partners of high-skilled migrants, making New Zealand more attractive to skilled talent and aiding industries facing labor shortages.
New Zealand is making bold moves to attract international talent and support migrant families. Starting December 2, 2024, partners of migrant workers will be granted open work rights, allowing them to work for any employer. This change addresses labor shortages and improves opportunities for families of skilled workers.
Topics Discussed:
- Extension of open work rights to more partners of migrant workers
- Eligibility criteria for partners of Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders
- Open work rights for partners in ANZSCO Level 4-5 roles
- The impact of overturning the near ban on partners of high-skilled migrants
Extension of Open Work Rights to More Partners of Migrant Workers
From December 2, 2024, New Zealand Open Work Rights will be extended to more partners of migrant workers, giving them the ability to work for any employer. This policy aims to support families of skilled migrants and address the labor shortages that have affected several industries. The government hopes that this initiative will encourage more workers to choose Work in New Zealand as a long-term career and lifestyle option.
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Eligibility Criteria for Partners of Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) Holders
The new policy offers open work rights to partners of Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders who meet certain criteria. These include:
- AEWV holders working in ANZSCO level one to three roles and earning at least NZD $25.29 per hour.
- AEWV holders who have been supporting a partner for a work visa by June 24, 2024, with the same wage requirement.
- Essential Skills work visa holders earning at least NZD $25.29 per hour.
This move enhances New Zealand Work Visa benefits and strengthens opportunities for migrant families.
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Open Work Rights for Partners in ANZSCO Level 4-5 Roles
In addition, the open work rights policy extends to partners of AEWV holders working in ANZSCO level 4-5 roles, provided they meet wage conditions:
- Earning NZD $47.41 per hour or more (150% of the median wage).
- Earning NZD $31.61 per hour for roles on the Green List, particularly in critical sectors such as transport or care.
These changes expand access to New Zealand Work Visa options for a wider group of workers and their families.
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The Impact of Overturning the Near Ban on Partners of High-Skilled Migrants
A key aspect of the new changes is the reversal of a near ban on work rights for partners of high-skilled migrants. Previously, restrictive policies made it difficult for partners to work, leading to frustrations and potentially deterring skilled migrants from choosing New Zealand. By restoring these open work rights, the government aims to keep high-skilled talent in the country, ensuring that valuable workers can stay in New Zealand without facing obstacles related to their families’ employment.
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Conclusion
The extension of open work rights to more partners of migrant workers marks a significant shift in New Zealand’s immigration policies. This initiative is expected to attract and retain skilled workers by offering greater flexibility and job opportunities for their families. By overturning the near ban on partners of high-skilled migrants, Work in New Zealand becomes even more appealing, helping the country address labor shortages while maintaining a competitive edge in the global job market.
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