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 Supported Living Payment.

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 is not a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident they cannot receive Supported Living Payment, whether or not they have 2 years continuous residence in New Zealand. They may be eligible for Emergency Benefit.

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

For more information about residence see:

• Resident in New Zealand
• Proof of residence
• Refugees and protected persons
• Calculating the period of absence
• Partner's residence status
• Reciprocal agreements
• Unlawful residence
• Permanent residence