Work visa extensions – now is the time to apply

On 27 November 2023 visa applications opened for workers to extend their Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWV). AEWVs will be granted allowing a maximum stay in New Zealand of 5 years.

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There are significant advantages moving forward quickly to apply for this work visa extension.

• The new government campaigned on increasing government application fees. Current fee is $750. Applying now protects against any future fee increases.

• Immigration medical and police clearances already held by Immigration NZ remain valid provided the next AEWV application is lodged before they expire (2 years for a police certificate and 3 years for a medical). If they expire, extra costs will apply. Typically, in Auckland a full adult medical cost is $350 per person.

• The rules can change at any time. There is a new government, and they are reviewing the AEWV scheme. Applying now protects workers from any rule changes that may negatively affect them.

Immigration NZ just announced they will allocate these applications to Immigration Officers for processing when a work visa is expiring within 9 months. However, new work visa application numbers are trending down. Immigration NZ may allocate these applications sooner depending on staffing capacity.

In our view the benefits of applying now outweigh any concerns over processing delays.

We are ready to discuss how we can help you manage this process to save time, unexpected cost, and stress. Contact our team today.