Two years residence

A client must have lived continuously in New Zealand for 2 years at any one time since becoming a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident to qualify for Sole Parent Support.

Note the 2 year period of residence must be 2 years continuous residence without absence from New Zealand. There are some circumstances however when a client can be absent from New Zealand during this time.

For more information see:

• Working overseas and paying New Zealand tax on earnings

If the client does not meet the 2 year continuous residence requirement they may be able to receive an Emergency Maintenance Allowance.

For more information about residence see:

• Resident in New Zealand
• Calculating the period of residence
• Permanent residence
• Refugees and protected persons
• Reciprocal agreements
• Unlawful residence
• Proof of residence