Extension Of WHV To Cover SMC Processing Time?

[JEEtoP]

My EOI was selected on 8th Feb with 135 points and current employment in NZ for under 12 months.
I arrived here on Sept 15th 2011 from UK with 12 month Working Holiday Visa.

Auckland Central processing times are 6-8 weeks to issue an ITA and then 6-9 months to decide on the application. (!!) As my current work visa will expire on Sept 15th this year do you think I need to submit an application to extend my WHV just to cover any possible scenario where I reach Sept 15th without a decision? Is it likely that I could get my SMC application processed by then? Does having an SMC application lodged provide any sort of amnesty?

Thanks

[JandM]

If someone is on a visa allowing them to work legally, INZ in NZ are notorious for not feeling much urgency about dealing with the application - they seem to have a 'what's your hurry?' attitude. But people whose visas are getting near to expiry have quite often contacted their INZ office and pointed out that time is getting short, and then had a VERY quick response.

I know that's not answering your question outright, but hope it gives another angle on the situation.

[sabrushi]

JEEtoP, if your SMC is still been processed, INZ would probably grant you an interim visa. You can refer to this link for more info: http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migra...ts/interim.htm

Hope that helps!

Sabri

[JEEtoP]

Thanks for the replies guys!

I hadn't come across that link before Sabri, it seems to read like it doesn't apply if you are applying for a permanent visa such as residency but as I live in the city anyway and should have my ITA arrive soon I figure I'll just complete it and submit it as soon as I possibly can and then follow it up with the Auckland City branch.

If I have my application submitted by end of March and then give them a further month, if nothing has progressed I can just chase my case officer and mention my expiry date/interim visa.

[JandM]

I also don't think they do interim visas as such for Residence, and nobody can directly apply for one, but they may have a way round if you ask. Also, I suppose if you have the option to apply for an extension of your WHV (that varies according to where you're from, and I don't remember, sorry), that wouldn't take long to do if you see you're getting close to having a problem.

[francis1962]

I found that they were very reasonable in extending my SM visa by 6 months
In my case just an e-mail from my solicitor explaining that sale of business was delayed not through my fault
$80 NZ fee and happy days
Move Saturday

Francis