New Zealand, with its beautiful landscapes, welcoming communities, and high quality of life, has become an increasingly popular destination for professionals, students, and families alike. If you’re an Indian applicant wanting to join your partner in New Zealand, you may be wondering about the various visa options available, as well as how you can start working once you’re there.
You have several job options if your partner has a New Zealand visa. This blog will guide you through the process of moving to New Zealand as the spouse or partner of a New Zealand visa holder, the options for working, and everything you need to know about getting started in your new life.
New Zealand’s Work Visa Options for Partners
Before you can start working in New Zealand, it’s important to understand the visa options available to you as a partner of a New Zealand visa holder.
Partner of a New Zealander Visa
You can qualify for a Partner of a New Zealander Visa if your spouse is a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand. You can live and work in New Zealand for up to three years with this visa, and you can study there for up to three months.
Eligibility
You must be able to prove that you are in a genuine and ongoing relationship with your New Zealand partner, typically through documentation such as shared financials, joint accommodation, or proof of living together. The duration of this visa would depend on how long you have lived with your partner. For instance, if you have lived less than a year with your partner, your visa will be only granted for 1 year but you will have the option of applying for additional visas for a total stay of up to 3 years. However if your stay together is more than 12 months, you would be granted a visa of up to 3 years.
Partner of a Student Work Visa
If your partner is a student in New Zealand, they can bring in their families as well but the conditions might differ according to the degree they are studying. Be sure to verify whether your partner is qualified to support you when you apply for a work visa as their partner.
Eligibility
You could be eligible for a work visa if your partner studies in level 9 or level 10 degree. Any level 7 or level 8 degree on the Green List or the qualifications eligible for post study work visa list.
Partner of a Worker Work Visa
If your partner holds a New Zealand work visa, you might still be eligible to work, but the conditions can differ. If you apply for a Partner of a Worker Work Visa, your ability to work may be restricted or granted based on the specific conditions of your partner’s visa.
Eligibility
This visa is available if your partner holds a work visa, but you will need to check whether work rights are open or if there are some restrictions. You may be eligible for a work visa if your spouse’s job is on the Green List or if their hourly wage is at least NZD 59.32. Otherwise, some eligible positions can sponsor a work visa for their spouse if their employment is on the ANZSCO skill list.
Eligibility to Work in New Zealand as a Partner
As a partner of a New Zealand visa holder, your eligibility to work in New Zealand depends largely on your as well as your spouse’s visa status.
- Partner of a New Zealander Visa: If you are on this visa, you are eligible to work in New Zealand without restrictions. You can pursue full-time or part-time employment, be self-employed, or freelance.
- Partner of a Student Work Visa: In case you can meet the criteria for this visa, you will have no restrictions in the work that you do.
- Partner of a Work Visa Holder: In this case, your ability to work may be restricted. Some temporary visas for partners only allow you to work but with certain conditions. For instance, you would be able to work at any job if your partner makes at least NZD 59.32 or has a job on the Green List.
However, if your partner’s visa grants you work rights, you can start looking for jobs as soon as you arrive.
Possible Jobs to Pursue in New Zealand
Once your work rights are sorted, it’s time to look at what kinds of jobs are available. New Zealand has a diverse job market, and many sectors are open to foreign workers with the right skills. Depending on your background and qualifications, you can pursue various job opportunities. Some of the major industries in New Zealand include:
- Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, and medical technicians are always in demand.
- IT and Technology: Software developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity professionals are highly sought after.
- Construction: Skilled tradespeople like carpenters, electricians, and plumbers are in high demand.
- Agriculture: New Zealand’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, with plenty of opportunities in dairy farming, horticulture, and viticulture.
- Tourism and Hospitality: If you have experience in tourism, hospitality, or customer service, these industries also have many opportunities, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Queenstown and Rotorua.
- Self-Employment: If you’re interested in freelancing or starting your own business, New Zealand provides opportunities for self-employed individuals, though you may need to meet certain criteria depending on the type of business.
If you are on a partner visa tied to a temporary visa holder, be mindful that there may be some restrictions. For example, you may only be allowed to work within a specific job category or with a certain employer.
Pathway to Permanent Residency in New Zealand
Once you’ve settled in and started working, many people look to make New Zealand their permanent home. If you’re on a partner visa, there are several pathways to permanent residency, especially if you’re employed in New Zealand for a certain period.
After living together in New Zealand for a few years, you may be able to apply for a Residence from a Work visa or Residence through a Partnership. If you’ve been in a relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident for a few years and have met the relationship criteria, you can apply for residency.
How to Apply for Jobs in New Zealand?
Finding work in New Zealand is fairly straightforward if you know where to look and how to prepare your application.
- Job Portals: Some of the most popular job search platforms in New Zealand include Seek, Indeed, etc. These websites list thousands of job vacancies across a wide range of industries.
- Networking: Attending local events and joining professional organizations or community groups can also help you connect with employers and expand your network.
- CV and Cover Letter: Tailoring your CV and cover letter to New Zealand standards is crucial. New Zealand employers tend to value straightforward, clear, and concise CVs. Make sure to emphasize relevant experience and any qualifications that align with New Zealand standards.
Workplace Culture and Rights in New Zealand
New Zealand is known for its laid-back yet professional work culture. It’s important to familiarize yourself with some of the basic aspects of working in New Zealand.
- Work-Life Balance: New Zealand places a high value on work-life balance, and many businesses are flexible when it comes to working hours, leave policies, and remote work arrangements.
- Employee Rights: Employees in New Zealand have several protections, including minimum wage laws, paid annual leave and sick leave, parental leave entitlements as well as health and safety regulations.
- Cultural Expectations: New Zealand workplaces tend to be informal compared to many other countries, including India. Employees are expected to be honest, reliable, and show initiative. However, employers also value a healthy balance between work and personal life.
Moving to New Zealand to join your partner can open up many exciting opportunities, both professionally and personally. By understanding the visa options available, the job market, and the pathway to permanent residency, you can take the necessary steps to make the most of your time in New Zealand. While there may be challenges, with the right preparation and mindset, you can successfully build a fulfilling career and life in this beautiful country.
If you’re ready to embark on this journey, take the time to explore your visa options, start your job search, and enjoy the adventure that lies ahead in New Zealand!
West Highlander Immigration – New Zealand Partnership-Based Work Visa
West Highlander Immigration specializes in providing expert consultation for individuals seeking a Partnership-Based Work Visa for New Zealand. Their team of experienced immigration consultants offers personalized guidance throughout the application process, ensuring that all requirements are met and that applicants have the best chance of success. Whether you’re in a genuine partnership with a New Zealand citizen or resident, West Highlander Immigration helps navigate the complexities of New Zealand’s immigration system, providing clear advice and support for a smooth visa application process. Their focus on delivering tailored solutions makes them a trusted partner for anyone looking to live and work in New Zealand based on their relationship status.