While we welcome people from overseas, we need to protect the interests of New Zealand citizens and residents.
Refusal of a visa or permit
You can be refused entry to New Zealand if you are disqualified under section 7(1) of the Immigration Act 1987. Disqualifying factors include having served time for criminal offences, prior deportation from any country, or involvement in known criminal or terrorist groups.
Denying an application
Your application may be denied under the following circumstances:
- The immigration or visa officer has reason to believe your application or information contained in your application is not genuine.
- The officer believes your purpose is not genuine, or that you do not intend to abide by the conditions of the permit.
Your application may also be refused if the applicant has failed to meet our guidelines. Applications will not be accepted if:
- your are not lawfully in New Zealand at the time of the application
- standards of good health and good character have not been met, or
- your application is incomplete.