The Minister of Immigration announced today changes to the eligibility of Victims of Family Violence work visas will come into effect from 28 February 2023, and changes to partners of temporary work visa holders will come into effect from 31 May 2023.

Changes to the eligibility of Victims of Family Violence work visas

Access to the Victims of Family Violence work visa will be expanded to include people who are on partner-based visas that are linked to temporary migrants.

The Victims of Family Violence work visa allows eligible applicants a six-month open work visa where there is a family violence situation, and this visa will be granted independently, and won’t depend on their partnership.

These changes will be in effect from 28 February 2023.

Victims of Family Violence Work Visa

Changes to partner work visas

Changes to partners of temporary work visa holders is part of the wider immigration Rebalance, which is aimed at supporting a higher-productivity, higher-wage economy.

These changes mean that most partners of temporary migrant workers who hold an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Essential Skills Work Visa (ESWV) will have visa conditions which state they must work for an Accredited Employer in any role and be paid at least median wage (or the applicable threshold if the role is covered by a sector agreement).

AEWV holders who are earning twice the median wage or in a Green List role will still be able to sponsor their partners for open work rights.

Partners who do not wish to work can apply to come to New Zealand on Visitor Visas. These changes will be in effect from 31 May 2023.

More information is available on the Beehive website and our website.

Strengthened protections and improved processes for partners of migrant workers | Beehive website

Bringing family if you have a work visa