Special Assistance

Character waiver

Applicants for any visas must be of good character. If you do not meet the character requirements, you will need a character waiver for the visa application to be approved. However, Immigration New Zealand will not consider character waiver requests if you have character issues described in section 15 or 16 of the Immigration Act 2009.

When Immigration New Zealand considers a character waiver request, it will take into account factors such as:

The seriousness of the offence
How long ago the relevant event occurred
Whether the applicant has any immediate family lawfully and permanently in New Zealand
Whether the applicant's potential contribution to New Zealand will be significant.

Section 61 Request

If you are in New Zealand unlawfully, but not subject to a deportation order, you will need a Section 61 request to make you lawful staying in New Zealand.

A decision on Section 61 requests falls under the "absolute discretion" of the immigration officer or the Minister. You will, therefore, need to put your best foot forward in such a request to maximise your chance.

Visa Reconsideration

If your temporary visa has been declined by Immigration New Zealand and you are onshore lawfully, you may apply for a reconsideration of your application.

Note that offshore applicants are not legally entitled to the right of reconsideration. However, it is possible if new and compelling information has been promptly provided.

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