The New Zealand government has introduced new policies to attract and retain skilled workers by giving their partners the ability to work without restrictions. Starting today, the partners of migrants holding the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) in higher-skilled roles will be eligible for open work rights, making it easier for families to settle in New Zealand.
What Does This Change Mean?
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford announced that partners of AEWV holders in higher-skilled roles will now have the right to work for any employer in New Zealand. Furthermore, This policy change removes previous restrictions and red tape, allowing them to find jobs freely without limitations.
Additionally, the new rule also applies to the partners of AEWV holders in lower-skilled roles, as long as the primary worker is on a pathway to permanent residency.
Who is Eligible for Open Work Rights?
The change applies to the partners of AEWV holders in the following categories:
- NZSCO Level 1-3 roles: These high-skilled jobs typically require specialized qualifications and experience.
- ANZSCO Level 4-5 roles: These lower-skilled roles qualify if the worker is on a pathway to residency.
In addition, This expansion of open work rights helps skilled workers and their families integrate into New Zealand more easily, benefiting the country’s workforce and economy.
Why Is This Change Important?
Minister Stanford emphasized that attracting global talent and supporting their families is crucial for New Zealand’s economic recovery. “This change is an important step in restoring balance to our immigration system,” she said. “It is vital to get our work visa settings right as we continue to rebuild the economy and ensure a strong, skilled workforce.”
By enabling the partners of skilled migrants to work freely, New Zealand hopes to make the country an even more attractive destination for talented professionals and their families. This initiative also aligns with the government’s broader goal of creating a more flexible and inclusive immigration system.
Benefits of the Open Work Rights
- Easier Family Settlement: The policy makes it easier for skilled workers’ families to settle in New Zealand. With both partners able to work, it helps families integrate into the community faster.
- Attracting Global Talent: The government also hopes this policy will attract top international talent, which is essential for filling important skilled roles in New Zealand’s economy.
- Boosting the Economy: By supporting families and offering open work rights, the policy will also contribute to the growth of New Zealand’s economy, allowing skilled migrants to fully contribute to their communities.
- Flexible Work Options: With the ability to work for any employer, the partners of skilled migrants will have more employment opportunities, making it easier for them to find jobs that suit their skills and interests.
This change is just one of many steps the New Zealand government is taking to improve its immigration system. In addition, by making it easier for skilled migrants and their families to settle in New Zealand and find work, the government aims to help the country recover economically and stay competitive in the global job market.
For those planning to move to New Zealand under the AEWV, this new policy offers a clear benefit, as it provides more opportunities for families to thrive while contributing to the country’s economy.
