Can overseas workers be refused entry?

To apply to move to New Zealand under the Skilled Migrant Category a person from overseas needs to complete an Expression of Interest form.   But not everyone is able to enter New Zealand.  We don’t accept Expressions of Interest from people not eligible for visas and permits under Section 7(1) of the Immigration Act 1987. In summary this covers:

• People involved in criminal activities:
  • who’ve been sentenced to, or have served, specified prison terms
  • who’ve committed other criminal or drug offences
• People who:
  • have been served with a removal order from New Zealand that is currently in force
  • have been deported from New Zealand or any other country
• People involved in any way with terrorist organisations or activities.