We are on work visas. Can we get Best Start for our new baby?
Usually not, if you and your child only hold temporary visas. People on a temporary permit or temporary visa cannot get Working for Families, including Best Start. Only one of you, either you or your child, needs to meet the residence requirements. Inland Revenue decides whether your family meets them, so ask Inland Revenue about your situation.
Official figures
- Weekly amount
- Up to NZ$771
- Maximum per year
- NZ$4,0411
- How long you can get it
- The first 3 years after your child is born, until your child's 3rd birthday1
- Income threshold
- If your family income is over NZ$79,000 a year, the NZ$77 a week starts to reduce1
- How much it reduces
- 21% of your family income above NZ$79,000 (the abatement rate)1
Official sources
- Best StartInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
- Child IRD numbersInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
- Registering a new baby and getting a birth certificateGovt.nz · govt.nz
- Residency requirementsInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
Read the full guide: Best Start payment for new babies →
People also ask
- What payments can I get from the government when my baby is born?
- How much is Best Start per week and how long can I get it?
- At what family income does Best Start start to reduce?
- My baby is born in 2026. Can I still get the full Best Start amount?
- Can I apply for Best Start when I register my baby's birth?
- Can I get Best Start while I'm on paid parental leave?
Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
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