Work Visa Expiring or Facing Issues? Get Trusted Help from Licensed NZ Immigration Advisors

If your Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is expiring, you've received a PPI letter, or you're unsure about your work conditions — you’re not alone. Immigration Trust helps skilled migrants across New Zealand renew their visas, fix mistakes, and stay lawful, even in complex or urgent situations.​

What We Help With​​​​​​​​​

You may be eligible for a new visa, a variation of conditions (VoC), or a second chance application - but the process must be done correctly.
We specialise in:

What Is the AEWV

The AEWV is New Zealand’s primary visa for skilled workers. It requires:
  1. Employer Accreditation
  2. A successful Job Check
  3. A Migrant Check confirming your qualifications
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But in 2024, a government review revealed major issues:
  • Weak Job Check enforcement
  • Exploitation risks for migrants
  • Poor employer understanding of their obligations
Immigration NZ is now tightening checks and rejecting more applications.

Common Problems Migrants Face

  • Visa expiring soon and unsure of next steps
  • Employer lost accreditation or business closed
  • Need to change jobs or move cities
  • Breach of conditions (wrong hours, wrong job title)
  • Received a PPI letter or visa decline
  • Unsure if a new visa or variation is better
Even one misstep can lead to unlawful status or deportation liability under Sections 56 or 157 of the Immigration Act 2009.

​Changing Your Work Visa Conditions: Variation of Conditions (VoC)

If you want to change your employer, job title, or location — and stay on your current visa — you may be able to apply for a Variation of Conditions.
To be eligible:
  • Your new employer must be accredited
  • The new job must be similar to your current role
  • You must apply before starting the new job
The VoC process is faster than applying for a new AEWV, but it requires correct documentation and timing. If you change jobs without a VoC, you may breach your visa and become deportable.

Real Client Results

FAQ 

Q: What happens if my visa expires while I wait for a new one?
A: If you apply before your current visa expires, you’ll usually get an interim visa under Section 80 of the Immigration Act. This lets you stay in NZ while Immigration NZ processes your new visa.But:
  • Your visa conditions may change (e.g., no work rights)
  • Check your interim visa letter carefully
  • Without an interim visa, you could be unlawful and face deportation

Q: Can I change employers while on an AEWV?​
A: Yes — but only if:
  • The new employer is accredited
  • The job is similar to your current role
  • You apply for and receive Job Change approval
Starting work without approval is a breach of your visa conditions.

Q: Is it better to apply for a new visa or a Variation of Conditions (VoC)?​
A: A VoC is faster and often cheaper if you're:
  • Staying in the same visa type
  • Moving to a similar role
  • Still meeting AEWV conditions
But a new visa may be needed if:
  • You're changing occupation types
  • Your previous job ended badly
  • You want a longer stay or different work rights
We can help you decide and prepare the correct application.

Q: Why was my AEWV declined?
A: Common reasons include:
  • Incomplete Job Check documentation
  • Employer no longer accredited
  • Mismatch between your role and experience
  • Incorrect wage, location, or job title
We can help you respond to a PPI or submit a strong second application.

Q: ​What are the new AEWV rules in 2024?
A: ​Following a government review, Immigration NZ updated AEWV policies:
  • English language requirements for low-skilled jobs
  • Work experience thresholds
  • Maximum AEWV duration for some roles cut to 3 years
  • Greater scrutiny of employer obligations and job terms
Q: What if I’ve been exploited at work?
A: ​You may be eligible for a Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa (MEPV), which allows you to leave a harmful employer and stay in NZ legally.
Learn more: MEPV – Migrant Exploitation Visa

​Why Immigration Trust?

  • Over 280 five-star Google Reviews
  • Specialists in AEWV and visa rescue cases
  • 100% licensed and trusted by migrants NZ-wide
  • Fast, confidential, and experienced

Start With a Confidential Case Review

Book your expert consultation now and get clear advice tailored to you.​

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