Immigration NZ Expands Work Rights for Partners of Students

So, in this Immigration New Zealand news, the government’s finally had a moment of clarity, and they've expanded work rights for partners of students. Partners of those studying Level 7 or 8 qualifications on the Green List can now apply for a work visa with open conditions. This is fantastic news, folks, and about time. We've got these talented individuals coming here, working hard, and now their partners can contribute too, rather than sitting idle.

The Green List, now updated, includes main Bachelor degrees and Bachelor Honours qualifications leading to registration for certain occupations. If you're on a student visa studying one of these registration qualifications, your partner can now support their application for a Partner of a Student Work Visa.

Here's the kicker – their dependent school-aged children can be treated as domestic students. That means they can apply for a Dependent Child Student Visa and won't have to pay tuition fees to go to school. This applies to anyone with a Partner of a Student Work Visa.

But of course, you've got to check the Green List appendix in the amendment circular for the eligible qualifications. Amendment Circular 2024-14, folks, get on it.

This is a sensible move, long overdue, and it aligns with what we need in today's global environment – attracting and retaining talent by making it easier for families to live and thrive here. It's about time the government made a move that benefits not just the individual, but the entire family unit.

Let’s keep pushing for more of these common-sense changes that make New Zealand a more attractive place for skilled migrants and their families. After all, a happy family is a productive one, and that’s good for all of us.

And that's the immigration news for today. Follow and subscribe for more immigration content like this. Ka Kite Ano.