Visa changes for partners of working migrants deferred

The government has deferred until April 2023 their decision to limit work rights for partners of work visa holders. What this means is that people already in NZ applying to extend work visas or new work visa applicants will still be able secure open work rights for their partners. Open work visas allow partners to work in any form employment, for any employer and in full or part time work. This will be a welcome relief to the migrant worker community and employers desperate to find workers.

It is still too early to celebrate that future restrictions to partners work rights don't emerge in 2023. The best way to avoid disappointment is to apply early ahead of any policy change.  

We reported other changes to work visas rolling out in 2023. Read more about these here.

‍