The government of New Zealand will revise immigration policy for work visa holders holding an Essential Work Visa (ESWV) and an Accredited Employer Work Visa from May 1, 2023.
The Essential Work Visa (ESWV) and Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders are subject to new employment restrictions. The revised employment restrictions will come into effect on June 1, 2023. However, anyone who is an existing visa holder or has applied before May 31, 2023, will not be subject to this criterion. Moreover, the terms of partners for other types of visas will remain unchanged in New Zealand.
As per New Zealand’s federal government, the effort is on to restore balance to the immigration system in promotion of economic growth with increased wages. Though the minimum number of hours for which a partner must work is not mandated,
Usually, the partner of a worker’s work visa is requested by those who want to travel with their partner on a work visa. For Indians, New Zealand spouse visa processing time is approximately 49 days and fees are around NZD 700. The stay in the country is typically for the same period as the partner’s work permit. The applicants holding visas are eligible to do the following:
- Work in New Zealand
- Study in New Zealand (for around 3 months)
- Be with their partners living or working in the country.
Partners are not required to have a job offer to be eligible for this visa.
Partners who are paid well or listed on the green list are exempt:
Certain partners holding ESWV or AEWV are exempt from the revised restrictions. Below are the partners that are exempt:
- Migrants who hold an income of not less than twice as much as the average pay
- Migrants who hold positions on the Green List
Anyone who earns less than the average hourly income is not eligible for the exemption.