Life has a way of surprising us, often changing in an instant. You could find yourself landing a better job, receiving a promotion, moving to a new town, falling in love, going through a breakup, or welcoming a new baby. These are all wonderful milestones, and each one can affect your visa; the key is to get on top of these changes before they affect your visa.

Changing employer or role

If you're on an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), your visa is tied to a specific employer and role. Starting with a new employer usually means a new visa first. Even staying with the same employer can matter. A promotion or a change in duties may need a variation of conditions before you start. Starting the new job first and sorting the paperwork later can put you in breach of your visa. It can also cause problems for future applications, including residence.

Moving regions

Moving to a new town or city for the same job and current employer? Check your visa conditions before you pack the car. Most work visas specify where you can work, and a move can also affect the job offer your visa relies on. You might need to apply for a variation of conditions before making the move.

Getting married or separating

If you’re in a committed partnership, you may be able to include your partner in a future application or support their visa (or vice versa). If your visa is based on your relationship and that relationship ends, your situation changes significantly. It's worth getting advice early, even when it's the last thing you feel like doing. Read more here about practical steps to take if you find yourself in this situation.

Having a baby in NZ

A baby born in New Zealand isn't automatically a New Zealand citizen unless at least one parent is a citizen or resident at the time of birth. Your little one may need their own visa, so it's worth planning ahead.

Bringing family over

Want your partner, children or parents to join you? Eligibility depends on your visa type, your income, and the family members involved. Some options are more straightforward than others, and timing can make a real difference.

Our advice: ask first, act second

Oftentimes, fixing a visa problem after the fact is slower, more stressful and sometimes more expensive than getting it right from the start. With processing times and policy settings continuing to shift, a quick chat before you make a change can save you months of headaches.

Planning a change? Get in touch with the Noth & Co. team before you make the leap.