Losing your job can be a challenging experience, especially for migrant workers in a foreign land. If you hold a work visa tied to a specific employer in New Zealand and find yourself facing redundancy, it's important to know that you do have options to consider.
In this blog post, we'll explore what you can do if you're in this situation and wish to remain in New Zealand.
1. Visitor Visa
Applying for a Visitor Visa (VV) is one of the most common routes for migrants facing redundancy. This allows you to remain in New Zealand while sorting out your affairs or searching for new job opportunities. When applying for a Visitor Visa, it's crucial to demonstrate your genuine intent as a visitor, prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself, and provide evidence of outward travel plans, such as available funds or booked flights to leave the country.
2. New Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) Application
If you secure a new job offer for a role you are suitably qualified for, you can apply for a New AEWV. The advantage of this option is the potential to receive a new 3-year (soon to be 5-year) work visa or a 24-month visa if applying under a median wage exemption role.
3. Job Change or Variation of Conditions
For AEWV holders, the option to change jobs or vary the conditions of your visa is available if you have a new job offer. The duration of your new visa will typically match that of your current one.
4. Partner in New Zealand
If you have a non-Kiwi spouse or partner in New Zealand with a job offer, you may be eligible for a visitor or work visa based on your partner's status. If your partner happens to be a New Zealand citizen or resident, you have strong options to transition to partnership-based work visas and residence visas.
5. Student Visa
While studying in New Zealand can be expensive for international students, it is still an option to consider. To obtain a student visa, you must demonstrate that you are a genuine student with an offer of enrolment from an educational institution and have sufficient funds to cover your living costs and tuition.
6. Departing New Zealand
Sometimes, the best option might be to depart New Zealand, especially if you are unable to pursue any of the other options mentioned. If this is your choice, it's important to inform Immigration New Zealand (INZ) about your departure plans. Emailing your flight itineraries to INZ can help establish your compliance and may be beneficial for any future interactions with immigration authorities.
Remember, it's crucial to stay informed about the latest immigration policies and regulations, as they can change over time. Seeking advice from a licensed professional can be extremely beneficial to navigate through these options and ensure you make the best decision for your unique situation.
In summary, facing redundancy as a migrant worker in New Zealand can be challenging, but there are various avenues to explore. Whether it's obtaining a Visitor Visa, securing a new job, or exploring other visa options, staying informed and seeking professional guidance from the VisaMaxNZ team can make the process smoother and increase your chances of continuing your journey in the Land of the Long White Cloud.
Contact VisaMaxNZ for immigration advice.
