- +64 20 445 6884
- info@asst.org.nz
- 875 New North RoadMount Albert, Auckland 1025
Healthcare
Asylum seekers can get free healthcare at public hospitals, some funded medical clinics (GP) or at a reduced cost. You must show a confirmation of claim letter and proof of ID, like a passport or Certificate of Identity. You also have access to the same public health and disability services as everyone in New Zealand. Rainbow asylum seekers can receive free gender-affirming healthcare, like hormone therapy, and HIV care. For mental health support, you can get free support from refugees as Survivors.
Employment
If you get a work visa while your refugee or protection claim is being processed, you can work in New Zealand. Many jobs are listed online, and you can search by region, type, and skills. Popular websites include www.seek.co.nz and www.trademejobs.co.nz. Career Services and Work and Income can give you advice and help, like workshops, training, job listings, job search skills, and CV writing. Check out www.careers.govt.nz and www.workandincome.govt.nz. You may also be eligible for Red Cross Pathways to Employment if you receive a benefit from Work and Income.
Claim Process
The asylum claim process involves seeking protection because of fear returning to a home country due to persecution. Refugee Status Unit reviews refugee claims to decide if someone is granted refugee or protection status. There is a map and timeline of the process under New Zealand Immigration website.
A Confirmation of Claim Letter will be sent by Immigration. This letter proves your status as an asylum seeker, and can be used to access resources at WINZ, Medical Care, and schools.
Housing
Private housing is the most common housing option for asylum seekers. To find a house you can look online on Facebook Marketplace, TradeMe, MyRent, etc. Asylum seekers with valid visas are entitled for social housing, but not for emergency housing. The wait time for social housing is very long.
Emergency Benefit
If you have a valid visa, you may be able to get an Emergency Benefit from Work and Income. To apply, first get a client number online, fill out the benefit form, and contact Work and Income to make an appointment. You will need a NZ bank account, a confirmation letter from Immigration New Zealand, your passport or ID and a valid visa.
Temporary Additional Support
You might also be able to get the Temporary Additional Support from Work and Income. This is for helping with accommodation costs such as paying rental costs for where you are living.
Family Tax Credits
The Family Tax Credit is a payment for families with dependent children aged 18 and under. The amount you can get is based on your yearly family income and family circumstances. Asylum seekers can get this while receiving a benefit.
English Classes
Asylum seekers are eligible for free English classes with English Language Partners, REAF, or AUT. You need to have a confirmation of claim letter to be shown as proof and a visa.
Primary and Secondary Education
Primary and secondary school (ages 5 – 18) is free for all asylum seekers and their children, they are considered domestic students. Please provide schools with a INZ claim letter and any valid visa (this includes visitor visa).
Tertiary Education
Asylum seekers are eligible to attend university at domestic rates as long as they have a claim in process and a valid visa. Asylum seekers are not eligible to receive a student loan or student allowance from Study Link. This means they must pay university fees themselves.
Visa Process
Asylum seekers/refugee claimants are entitled to apply for visas – such as visitor, student and work visas throughout their claim process. Immigration makes a decision on these applications. In order to attend education, work, or receive welfare benefits, you need a valid visa. It is important to apply for a new one before your current visa expires.
The overarching goal of the Asylum Seekers Support Trust (ASST) is to help create a New Zealand where Asylum Seekers are welcomed, supported and thriving.
+64 20 445 6884
info@asst.org.nz
875 New North RoadMount Albert, Auckland 1025
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