Visa Extension - Anyone ever received an extension to their visa?

[francis1962]

Anyone ever received an extension to their visa

Time lines

Visa granted 26/06/10 SMC
Over confident paid Migrant Levy 26/08/10
Business sale stalls
Looking like sale is going through
Fly to NZ 22/08/11 to activate visa
Banks slow sale down > completion 12/11
Contacted NZ immigration about reapplying and was advised to discuss extension of visa with case officer
He now will consider extension

Any thoughts

Francis

[JandM]

I think I'm missing something. I don't see why you need an extension.

You activated your Residence visa on 22nd August this year - so, only a few weeks ago - is that right? And then you've gone back to finish up the sale of your business?

If that's the case, you don't actually have to be in NZ to settle and live until just before 22nd August 2013. The Residence visa has two years' travel conditions that let you come and go as much as you want.

[francis1962]

I have only until 21/11/11 to start my job under the conditions of a skilled migrant visa as I understand it 3 months from activating the visa

[JandM]

Oh, I see - having the condition on it explains why there's a problem.

Good luck with the CO.

I'm sure you've done all this, but... a) is there no chance of leaning on the bank to hurry it up even a bit? and b) do you absolutely have to be there in person for the sale to conclude?

[Manks]

I have only until 21/11/11 to start my job under the conditions of a skilled migrant visa as I understand it 3 months from activating the visa

I don't think this is quite correct. You have to work for three months within the first 7 months, so effectively you have four months from activation. Or at least that was the case when we came over last year.

So within 7 months of arriving, you had to show proof that you'd worked for three months in the job you'd applied with, or a similarly skilled job. Good luck.

[JandM]

It depends what it says in the Section 49(1) condition printed on the visa - they're not all the same, I gather.

[francis1962]

Received an e-mail from case officer today

With letter from solicitor confirming genuine reason for delay & confirmation of continuing offer of employment they will consider a special direction to extend the visa

Sounds positive

Francis

Oh and a fee

[JandM]

Thank goodness, on your behalf! (Well, not for the fee, but I suppose that shouldn't come as a big surprise. )

[francis1962]

Amazingly the fee is only £85

[francis1962]

Hi all

Received news today that we have been granted the extension to our visa

Very relieved

Francis