Migrant school leavers to get part-time work rights

The New Zealand government has announced a significant policy change, introducing part-time work rights to migrant school leavers aged 17-24 from October 2024. This initiative aims to provide these young individuals with opportunities to gain work experience and contribute to their communities while they await the outcomes of their residency applications. 

Eligibility criteria  

To qualify for these part-time work rights, migrant school leavers must meet specific criteria: 

• Be aged between 17 and 24 

• Have completed secondary school 

• Hold an eligible visitor visa 

• Be a dependent child of a Work Visa holder or a New Zealand citizen/resident 

• Have an already-lodged skilled residence visa or Dependent Child Residence Visa application 

Work hour limitations  

Under this new policy, eligible migrant school leavers are permitted to work: 

• Up to 20 hours per week during the school year 

• Up to 40 hours per week during summer breaks 

Benefits of the policy  

This policy change offers several benefits: 

• Provides financial support and work experience for young migrants 

• Assists in their integration into the New Zealand workforce 

• Eases the financial burden on migrant families while waiting for residency decisions 

Government’s perspective  

The New Zealand government emphasises that this policy aims to support young migrants in becoming productive members of society, helping them to gain valuable work experience and contribute to the economy. This move is part of a broader effort to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for migrant families. 

For further information and assistance on these updates, please contact Arno Nothnagel, our NZ Immigration Director at arno.nothnagel@absoluteimmigration.com.