The New Zealand government has planned significant changes for migrant school graduates. Starting in October 2024, these young migrants will be able to work part-time while waiting for the results of their parents' immigration petitions. This adjustment is intended to benefit many families and young people who have struggled under the current system.
Migrant school leavers must achieve certain criteria to be eligible for this new work permit. They must have graduated from high school and have applied for a skilled or dependent child residence visa. They must also possess an appropriate guest visa and be the dependant child of a work visa holder, New Zealand citizen, or resident.
Erica Stanford, the Immigration Minister, explained why this modification was made. She mentioned that many young migrants stay on guest visas for an extended period. This occurs because they are unable to pay international student fees and do not qualify for skilled worker visas.
She stated that the goal is to guarantee that onshore migrants aged 17-24 who have completed secondary education and applied for residence in New Zealand can continue to contribute and live meaningful lives.
Under the new policy, qualifying migrant school leavers can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. During the summer months, they can labour up to 40 hours each week. These job rights are similar to those granted to Year 12 and 13 students on a dependent child student visa
By August 30, 2024, Immigration New Zealand will publish more information on how to apply as well as a specific implementation date. This measure intends to help young migrants contribute to the economy and get useful job experience while their residency applications are being processed.
This new policy is part of a larger effort to build a more inclusive and helpful immigration system in New Zealand. The government realizes the difficulties that migrant families endure, particularly young people who are at a crossroads in their lives.
The government hopes that allowing them to work part-time, will reduce the financial strain on these families and help young migrants live more meaningful lives.
Minister Stanford underlined the significance of establishing proper immigration policies to support the government's plan to rebuild the economy. "This adjustment is part of a larger effort to establish a smarter immigration system. "Getting our immigration policies right is critical to the government's plan to rebuild the economy," she stated.
In addition to the new policy for migrant school leavers, the government has simplified work visas for the spouses of some international students. Partners of students studying Level 7 or 8 qualifications on the Green List are now eligible for a flexible work visa.
The goal is to help young migrants contribute to the economy, obtain work experience, and live more fulfilling lives while their residency petitions are pending.
Immigration New Zealand will give additional information on the application process and eligibility requirements by August 30, 2024.