Frequently Asked Questions

This depends on your circumstances and the residence category you may qualify for. While some applicants are eligible to apply for residence directly from overseas, most would normally need to first enter New Zealand on a temporary visa and build up employment, partnership, or other eligibility requirements. 

For example, some skilled migrants first obtain a work visa before becoming eligible for skilled residence. Likewise, partnership-based residence applications often involve an initial temporary partnership visa before residence is considered.

This is why a long-term immigration strategy can be important, especially where temporary visas may later support a stronger residence application.

Yes. Your visa history will be part of Immigration New Zealand’s assessment when they look at your future applications.

If an applicant repeatedly changes visa types without a clear reason, or submits applications that appear inconsistent with their stated intentions, Immigration New Zealand may question whether the applicant is a genuine temporary entrant and whether there is a “hidden agenda”.

This does not mean changing visa categories is necessarily a problem. Many people move lawfully from visitor visas to student visas, work visas, partnership visas, and eventually residence. However, it is important that each application remains consistent, truthful, and supported by appropriate evidence.

Not necessarily, but applicants who are already in New Zealand sometimes have practical advantages. Immigration New Zealand may consider factors such as an applicant’s established history of compliance with visa conditions, existing employment, study, family connections, or ongoing relationship in New Zealand.

However, onshore applicants are still required to meet all immigration requirements, and being physically present in New Zealand does not guarantee approval.

In some situations, applying offshore may actually be more appropriate depending on the visa category and the applicant’s circumstances.

You should generally inform Immigration New Zealand if there are significant changes that may affect your application. Examples may include:

• changes in employment
• relationship changes
• withdrawal of sponsorship
• changes in study plans
• criminal charges or convictions
• medical developments
• changes in financial circumstances

Providing incorrect or outdated information can create serious problems, particularly if Immigration New Zealand later considers that relevant information was withheld or presented in a misleading fashion.

In some cases, a change in circumstances may strengthen an application. In others, it may require a reassessment of the overall strategy. Early advice can help reduce unnecessary risks.

Visa conditions are legal requirements attached to your visa. These conditions may restrict the type of work you can do, the number of hours you can work, where you may study, or how long you may remain in New Zealand.

Breaching visa conditions can have serious consequences. Depending on the situation, Immigration New Zealand may:

• decline future visa applications
• cancel an existing visa
• issue deportation liability
• question your credibility in future applications

Even unintentional breaches can create problems. For this reason, it is important to understand your visa conditions clearly and seek advice if you are unsure whether a particular activity is allowed. If you have found out, for instance, that you have worked more hours than your visa allows, you do have an obligation to inform Immigration New Zealand, but to protect your best interest, we suggest that you talk to a licensed immigration adviser first.

Generally, visitor visas, by definition, do not allow their holders to work in New Zealand, despite some rare exceptions. People know this. 

What many people tend to ignore is that “work” is interpreted broadly under immigration law and may include paid employment, self-employment, or even unpaid activities in some circumstances if there is a commercial benefit involved.

Many applicants mistakenly assume that casual, short-term, remote, or unpaid work is automatically acceptable on a visitor visa. However, this can lead to serious immigration consequences.

If you intend to work in New Zealand while holding a visitor visa, you should first confirm whether your visa conditions allow it.

This depends on the conditions attached to the student visa.

Many student visas allow students to work up to 20 hours per week during study periods and full-time during certain scheduled holidays. However, not all student visas include work rights, and the exact conditions can vary depending on the course and education provider.

Working beyond permitted hours may be considered a breach of visa conditions, even if the excess hours are minor or temporary.

Students should carefully check their visa conditions rather than relying solely on information from employers, classmates, or social media.

In some situations, limited study is allowed on a visitor visa. Generally, visitor visa holders may undertake study for up to three months in a twelve-month period.

Longer courses usually require an appropriate student visa.

Applicants should be cautious about enrolling in courses without first confirming whether their visa conditions allow the intended study. Immigration issues can arise where study activities exceed what is permitted under a visitor visa.

If your visa expires while you remain in New Zealand, you may become unlawfully in New Zealand.

This can create serious immigration consequences, including:

• becoming liable for deportation
• difficulties obtaining future visas
• complications when travelling internationally
• concerns about compliance history in future applications

In some situations, applicants may still have options after becoming unlawful, but these cases can become significantly more complex and time-sensitive.

It is usually much easier to address visa issues before a visa expires rather than afterwards, but if you have already overstayed your visa, talk to a licenced immigration adviser immediately.

This depends on the type of visa application, your current visa status, and whether you hold valid travel conditions.

Some applicants may leave and re-enter New Zealand while an application is being processed, while others may risk losing interim visa rights or face difficulties re-entering the country.

Travel during processing should be considered carefully, particularly where:

• an interim visa may be involved
• existing visas are close to expiry
• the application relates to partnership or residence pathways
• there are previous immigration complications

Before making travel plans, it is important to understand how leaving New Zealand may affect your immigration status and pending application.

Partnership in the immigration context can be quite different from how we understand romantic relationships in everyday life. The key question is whether the relationship is genuine, stable, and likely to continue.

Immigration officers may consider a wide range of factors, including:

• how long the couple has known each other
• Whether and how long they live together
• shared financial arrangements
• communication history
• family and social recognition of the relationship
• future plans together

No single document automatically proves a relationship. Immigration New Zealand generally assesses the overall picture created by all the evidence provided. For this reason, it is important to think strategically about what evidence is available, what each document demonstrates, and how the evidence should be presented to Immigration New Zealand.

Unfortunately, partnership assessment is not an exact science – there is no fixed number of documents required. The amount and type of evidence needed depends on the circumstances of the relationship. In extreme cases, couples might have never met each other in person due to circumstances beyond their control, and can still be granted partnership-based visas after reasonable explanation and evidence are provided. 

Generally, applicants should aim to provide evidence covering several aspects of their life together, such as:

• joint tenancy agreements or property ownership
• shared utility bills
• joint bank accounts or financial commitments
• photographs together over time
• travel records
• correspondence addressed to both partners
• messages and communication records
• evidence of support from family and friends

The goal is not to provide the greatest number of documents possible, but rather to provide credible evidence that demonstrates a genuine and ongoing relationship.

In some circumstances, yes.

New Zealand offers partnership-based temporary visas for partners of certain work visa holders, student visa holders, and New Zealand citizens or residents. However, eligibility requirements differ depending on the sponsor’s immigration status and the visa category being applied for.

The sponsor may also need to meet additional requirements relating to their visa conditions, employment, or previous sponsorship history.

Because the rules vary significantly between categories, it is important to assess the specific circumstances of both partners before proceeding.

Possibly.

Living together is generally an important requirement for partnership-based applications, but there is no universal minimum period of living together that guarantees approval.

Immigration New Zealand will assess the overall strength of the relationship and the evidence available. A shorter period of living together may be sufficient in some cases if there is strong supporting evidence. In other situations, applicants may benefit from waiting until they can provide more substantial evidence of shared life and commitment.

Every relationship is different, and the strength of an application often depends on the quality and consistency of the evidence rather than a particular timeframe alone.

This is not a yes or no question. In the Immigration context, the definition of a “dependent child” is much more complex than many people expect. Immigration New Zealand may consider factors such as:

• the child’s age
• marital status
• financial dependence
• living arrangements
• whether the child has children of their own

Careful assessment is often required to determine whether a child qualifies as a dependent for immigration purposes.

It is possible, but it is important to understand that living together is one of the fundamental requirements for most partnership-based visa applications in New Zealand.

If you are not currently living together but have lived together previously, you will generally need to provide Immigration New Zealand with a clear timeline of your relationship, together with evidence of your period of cohabitation and a reasonable explanation for your current physical separation. Immigration New Zealand will often assess whether the relationship has remained genuine and stable despite the separation.

Couples who have not yet begun living together may need to consider alternative visa options before becoming eligible for a partnership-based application. In some cases, cultural, religious, family, employment, or immigration circumstances may explain why a couple has not yet lived together, and these factors may warrant further consideration.

This is one of the most common areas of misunderstanding, particularly for couples in long-distance relationships. While being in a genuine relationship is essential, it is not always sufficient on its own if the living together requirement cannot be met.

If Immigration New Zealand has concerns about a partnership application, they will often provide an opportunity for the applicants to respond before a final decision is made. This is what we call a PPI – Immigration New Zealand must give applicants to comment on what they consider “Potentially Prejudicial Information”. 

This may involve requests for additional evidence, clarification of inconsistencies, or questions about the history of the relationship.

It is important to take these concerns seriously and provide clear, accurate, and well-supported responses. How concerns are addressed can sometimes have a significant impact on the outcome of the application.

For this reason, many couples seek professional assistance when responding to partnership-related concerns raised by Immigration New Zealand.

Yes, without a doubt. 

Immigration New Zealand requires applicants to disclose previous visa refusals, deportation history, immigration breaches, and other relevant immigration matters, regardless of which country was involved.

Many applicants worry that declaring a previous refusal will automatically result in another refusal. In reality, the failure to disclose such information is often far more damaging than the refusal itself.

Immigration New Zealand is usually more concerned with whether an applicant has been honest and transparent than whether they have experienced difficulties in the past. 

Not necessarily.

For some visa categories, applicants must meet New Zealand’s health requirements. The key questions for Immigration New Zealand is whether a medical condition is likely to impose significant costs on New Zealand’s health or special education services. If yes, then the medical condition is a barrier or even grounds for decline, if medical waivers are not granted. 

Many medical conditions do not prevent visa approval. However, some applications may require further medical information, specialist reports, or consideration of a medical waiver.

Each situation is assessed individually, and outcomes often depend on the nature of the condition, the visa category involved, and the overall circumstances of the applicant.

Applicants are generally required to declare criminal convictions, charges, and other relevant character matters when requested by Immigration New Zealand.

This may include:

• convictions in New Zealand
• convictions overseas
• pending criminal charges
• previous imprisonment
• deportation or removal orders
• involvement in certain criminal investigations

Applicants should never assume that a conviction is too old or too minor to disclose. If Immigration New Zealand specifically asks for information, it should be answered accurately and completely.

Yes, although previous overstaying may affect how Immigration New Zealand assesses future applications.

The impact will depend on factors such as:

• the length of the overstay
• the reason of the overstay
• how long ago it occurred
• whether the applicant left voluntarily
• whether there have been subsequent immigration issues
• the type of visa now being sought

Many people incorrectly assume that a previous overstay permanently prevents future visas. While overstaying is a serious matter, some applicants may still have viable immigration options depending on their circumstances.

Certain applicants who do not meet New Zealand’s character requirements may still be considered under a character waiver process.

A character waiver is not automatic. Immigration New Zealand may consider factors such as:

• the seriousness of the offending
• how long ago the events occurred
• evidence of rehabilitation
• family/humanitarian circumstances
• the applicant’s overall contribution and conduct

Character waiver cases are often highly case-specific and can require detailed supporting submissions.

For some visa categories, applicants who do not meet the required health standard may still be considered for a medical waiver.

When assessing whether to grant a waiver, Immigration New Zealand may consider:

• the nature and severity of the medical condition
• likely future healthcare costs
• family circumstances
• humanitarian factors
• the purpose of the visa application

Medical waiver assessments can be complex and often involve both medical evidence and legal submissions.

In reality, they cannot check everything due to resource constraints, but you should always assume they will. 

Immigration New Zealand may verify information provided by applicants through various means, including:

• contacting employers
• verifying educational qualifications
• reviewing previous visa records
• checking publicly available information
• requesting additional documents

For this reason, it is important that all information provided in a visa application is accurate, consistent, and supported by appropriate evidence.

The consequences can be serious.

If Immigration New Zealand believes an applicant has provided false, misleading, or incomplete information, this may affect both the current application and future applications.

In some situations, applicants may be given an opportunity to explain concerns before a final decision is made. Responding carefully and accurately is often critical.

For this reason, applicants should always ensure that information provided to Immigration New Zealand is truthful, complete, and consistent across all applications.

Yes. Many people DIY their visa and get approved. 

However, immigration applications are not simply about completing forms. Applicants must also understand the relevant immigration requirements, provide appropriate supporting evidence, and address any concerns Immigration New Zealand may have about eligibility, credibility, character, health, or compliance.

For straightforward cases, self-prepared applications may be entirely appropriate. For more complex situations, professional advice can help applicants better understand potential risks and avoid common mistakes.

While friends and family members may share their personal experiences, immigration advice should not be based solely on another person’s visa journey. Moreover, under New Zealand law, any person who gives immigration advice must either be licensed or exempt from licensing – that is to say, your friend giving you immigration advice could even be illegal. 

Immigration rules change frequently, and visa outcomes often depend on individual circumstances. A pathway that worked for one person may not be suitable for another.

Applicants should be cautious about relying on information obtained through social media, online forums, or informal advice from friends and relatives, particularly where significant immigration decisions are involved.

A Licensed Immigration Adviser is authorised under New Zealand law to provide immigration advice and is regulated by the Immigration Advisers Authority.

A Licensed Immigration Adviser can assist with:

• assessing visa options and eligibility
• identifying potential risks before lodgement
• preparing supporting evidence
• responding to Immigration New Zealand concerns
• developing long-term immigration strategies
• explaining visa conditions and obligations

While every application is different, professional advice can often help applicants make informed decisions and avoid avoidable errors.

No. And you should not trust anyone who answers yes. 

No adviser, lawyer, education agent, employer, or migration consultant can guarantee that a visa will be approved.

Immigration decisions are made solely by Immigration New Zealand based on the applicable immigration instructions and the evidence provided.

A professional adviser’s role is to assess risks, provide advice, prepare applications carefully, and present the strongest possible case based on the applicant’s circumstances.

Licensed Immigration Advisers are regulated by the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA).

To obtain and maintain a licence, advisers must meet professional competency requirements, comply with a Code of Conduct, undertake continuing professional development, and remain accountable to a formal complaints and disciplinary process.

The licensing system is designed to protect consumers and promote professional standards within New Zealand’s immigration advice industry.

Applicants can verify whether a person is licensed by searching the public register maintained by the Immigration Advisers Authority.

In some circumstances, yes, but only if they are appropriately authorised under New Zealand law.

Many overseas education agents assist students with enrolment and education-related matters. However, immigration advice relating to New Zealand visas may only be provided by individuals who are authorised to do so under the Immigration Advisers Licensing Act, unless an exemption applies.

Applicants should ensure that anyone providing immigration advice is properly authorised before relying on that advice.

Licensed Immigration Advisers must comply with professional obligations designed to protect clients.

These obligations include requirements relating to:

• professional competence
• client care
• confidentiality
• conflicts of interest
• communication
• handling of client funds

Clients who believe a Licensed Immigration Adviser has acted improperly may also have access to a formal complaints process through the Immigration Advisers Authority.

Meeting the basic requirements of a visa category does not always guarantee approval.

Immigration New Zealand may also assess factors such as:

• credibility
• bona fide intentions
• character
• health
• quality of supporting evidence
• overall consistency of information

In some cases, applicants may technically satisfy certain requirements but fail to persuade Immigration New Zealand that the application should be approved based on the evidence provided.

For this reason, successful applications often depend not only on eligibility, but also on how the application is prepared, explained, and supported.

A PPI (Potentially Prejudicial Information) letter is a communication from Immigration New Zealand advising that concerns have arisen during the assessment of a visa application.

The purpose of a PPI letter is to give the applicant an opportunity to respond before a final decision is made. The concerns may relate to matters such as:

• credibility
• bona fide intentions
• employment evidence
• partnership evidence
• character issues
• health requirements
• information obtained from third parties

A PPI letter should always be taken seriously. The quality of the response can have a significant impact on the outcome of the application.

They might not, but the real question is: do you really want to risk them finding out? 

Applicants should always provide complete and accurate information when dealing with Immigration New Zealand.

Immigration officers may have access to:

• previous New Zealand visa applications
• immigration records
• information provided by employers, education providers, or sponsors
• overseas immigration information shared through international arrangements
• publicly available information
• documents provided during previous applications

Many applicants worry that disclosing a previous visa refusal, immigration issue, or mistake will automatically result in a decline. In practice, Immigration New Zealand is often more concerned about non-disclosure than the underlying issue itself.

Being honest and transparent is usually the safest approach.

Many straightforward visa applications can be prepared without professional assistance. However, obtaining advice may be particularly beneficial where:

• there are multiple visa options available
• long-term residence planning is involved
• a previous visa has been declined
• Immigration New Zealand has raised concerns
• there are character or health issues
• partnership evidence may be complex
• visa conditions have been breached
• significant financial or business decisions depend on the visa outcome

Seeking advice early can often help applicants understand their options, identify potential risks, and avoid common mistakes before they become more difficult to resolve.

Immigration matters can be complex, and a small issue at the beginning of the process can sometimes have consequences for future applications. Understanding the bigger picture can therefore be just as important as preparing the current application itself.