A3.10 Exemptions for distinguished visitors
- The Visits and Ceremonial Office of the Department of Internal Affairs and other agencies (eg, New Zealand Defence Force) may request that parties of distinguished visitors who are guests of government be exempt, by special direction, from having to hold a permit to be in New Zealand.
Note: "Guest of government" status is granted through the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
- A request may also be made to waive, by special direction, the requirement for distinguished visitors to provide a passport or certificate of identity for inspection.
A3.10.1 Making requests for exemptions
- Requests are to be made to the NZIS branch office responsible for the particular port of entry.
- The agency requesting the exemption must submit full personal details of every member of the party.
- The NZIS branch office must notify the Customs Department at the port of entry of any exemptions granted so that Customs can allow entry without referring to the NZIS.
