POTENTIAL CHANGES AHEAD FOR PARTNER WORK VISAS
Do you have staff looking to support their partner with a Partner Work Visa? Are you looking to hire someone via the Partner Work Visa option?
The criteria for this visa option is set to change. We urge you to get underway before you may no longer be eligible for this option.
THE PARTNER WORK VISA AS IT CURRENTLY STANDS
Currently, if you sponsor staff on a work visa (such as an Accredited Employer Work Visa or Essential Skills Work Visa) they are able to support their partner or spouse on visas, based on their relationship.
These partners have open work rights, giving employers flexibility as:
- There is no pay rate requirement (aside from the minimum wage requirement)
- There is no Job Check required
- They can be employed on a part-time basis
- They are not limited to a specific role
If you are recruiting for a role that is traditionally not highly paid, not able to meet the $27.76/h requirement, and is not on any wage exemption lists, you may consider employing someone via the Partner Work Visa option.
WHAT CHANGES ARE AHEAD?
The Partner Work Visa option will soon only be available to AEWV holders in an occupation on the Green List, or if they are paid twice the median wage ($55.52/h or $115,481.60/h).
As we know, having family members in New Zealand helps employees with their commitment to remain in the country, long term.
If you have staff looking to support their partner with a Partner Work Visa, or looking to hire someone via the Partner Work Visa option, you should get prepared now.
We recommend you get underway with their applications now as they may soon no longer be eligible to apply for this option.
To chat about these changes or other immigration matters, get in touch! As always, we are here to help.