Partner with an exemption from their work obligations
Generally, a partner cannot continue to receive their payment when they temporarily leave New Zealand if they have work obligations, unless they meet the criteria for approved travel. A client may have a full or partial exemption from their work obligations.
Partner with a full exemption from work obligations
A partner who has a full exemption from their work obligations can continue to be paid a benefit while they are absent from New Zealand for up to 28 days in a 52 week period.
Partner with a partial exemption from work obligations
A partner with a partial exemption from their work obligations cannot continue to receive their payment when they temporarily leave New Zealand (unless they meet the criteria for approved travel). Where they meet the criteria for approved travel they can continue to receive their payment for up to 28 days in any 52 week period if:
- the benefit would continue to be paid except for them having left New Zealand
- the absences do not affect the client's eligibility for the benefit
- they have notified Work and Income of their intention to temporarily leave New Zealand
For more information see:
Legislation
- General rule: benefit not payable while beneficiary absent from New Zealand section 219 Social Security Act 2018
- Definitions schedule 2 Social Security Act 2018
- Interpretation regulation 139 Social Security Regulations 2018
- When MSD must apply 4-week rule regulation 143 Social Security Regulations 2018
- Exception to general rule: benefit subject to obligations rule regulation 144 Social Security Regulations 2018
