New Zealand
New Zealand Expands Open Work Rights for Migrant Workers’ Spouses. The New Zealand Government is introducing policy changes from December 2, 2024, to allow more partners of migrant workers to access open work rights, enabling them to work for any employer. These changes aim to strengthen family unity for migrants and help fill critical labor gaps in sectors facing skill shortages.
Starting December 2, open work rights will extend to:
- All partners of Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders working in high-skill roles, classified as ANZSCO Levels 1-3, and earning at least NZD$25.29 per hour.
- Partners of AEWV holders earning at least $25.29 per hour who were already supporting a partner on a work visa as of June 26, 2024.
- All partners of Essential Skills work visa holders earning at least $25.29 per hour.
Additionally, partners of AEWV holders working in roles at ANZSCO Levels 4-5 will gain open work rights if they meet specific wage thresholds:
- At least $47.41 per hour (150 percent of the median wage).
- At least $31.61 per hour for roles on the Green List, fulfilling Green List role requirements.
- At least $25.29 per hour (or the Transport or Care Sector Agreement wage, if higher) and meeting the sector agreement requirements for those fields.
ANZSCO categorizes occupations by skill level, from Level 1 (most skilled) to Level 5 (less skilled), helping to align policy with skill demand.
Current partners on work visas with specific job restrictions can apply to vary their conditions for open work rights if their partners qualify under these updated rules. Eligible applicants can start submitting their applications for a new visa or variation on December 2, 2024.
