I have a new job in a new province for late August. Like so many universities, mine has a 10 month contract, with RP ending in July. The new school just recently said they think I have to return to my home country and apply for a whole new Z visa there before I can start working for them. This seems wrong to me, given I already applied for a Z once and got it there last year.

Lots of people switch jobs every year, lots on 10 month contracts, and they don't have to do that. What am I missing? Do others have 10 month contracts but 12 month visas? Is there anything I can do aside from that (the plane rides and expense are pretty horrifying to contemplate?). I heard you can use L tourist visas as a bridge, but that would only work if they would give me a Z/new WP here in country.

If anyone can shed some light on this, please let me know. It's giving me a huge headache right when I thought I had everything sorted out...