Domestic Violence and Covid-19

Domestic violence is not uncommon. During these uncertain times, New Zealand has experienced a surge of domestic violence. This is of major concern to many. Seeking the correct support may be incredibly difficult for migrants who may not have knowledge on or access to the appropriate support structure. Furthermore, migrants who’s visas are dependant upon their partner may be afraid to seek the help they need. They may fear deportation. Reporting domestic violence on a partnership based does not result in deportation. There are many options available to assist you.

There are two special work visas in cases of family and domestic violence. 

• you are, or were, in a relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident;  
• you had planned to apply for residence on the basis of this relationship;  
• the relationship has now ended because of family/domestic violence against you or your children, and;  
• you now need to work to support yourself
• This Work Visa provides you with your own visa status, entirely independent of your partner’s status.

Special Residence Visas can also be granted if: 

• you are, or were, in a relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident; 
• you had planned to apply for residence on the basis of this relationship;  
• you’ve now separated from your ex-partner because of family/domestic violence against you or your children;  
• you can’t return to your home country because you would have no way of supporting yourself financially, or because you’d be abused or excluded from the community because of social stigma (this could be stigma associated with family/domestic violence, or with being separated or a solo parent, or other associated stigma), and;  
• you meet the health and character requirements for residence.

If you are a migrant experiencing any of these issues at present, please reach out. There is help available for you. We have listed the contact numbers of many New Zealand agencies who are here to help you through domestic violence below. 

Alternatively, please contact us if you would like to speak about these visa applications.  

Contact Numbers in New Zealand For Domestic Violence:

Family Services 211 Helpline (0800 211 211)  

Women’s Refuge 0800 743 843 (0800 REFUGE) 

Safe to Talk – Sexual Harm Helpline. Call 0800 044334, text 4334 or email support@safetotalk.nz

Victim Support for Sexual Assault – call 0800 842 846

For more information, please click here