2016-May 06: Tongan “Spent Conviction” Police Certificates

Visa Pak 258 - Reminder for staff about the format of Tongan police certificates issued by Tonga police.

Visa Paks

6 May 2016

Tongan “Spent Conviction” Police Certificates

This item is to remind staff that there are two versions of Tonga police certificates which may be issued by Tonga Police.

Tonga police certificate format

A Tonga police certificate which states that the named subject “has no Criminal Record in accordance with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 2013” means that the person has convictions which are considered ‘spent’ in terms of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act. This may include convictions which bring the applicant under section 15 of the Immigration Act, or which may otherwise require a character waiver process.

Where a Tonga police certificate has been issued in accordance with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 2013 the applicant should be PPI’d and asked to provide a ‘full disclosure’ police certificate from Tonga Police. Character requirements should then be determined on the basis of the ‘full disclosure’ certificate.

Clients can obtain a police certificate by following the instructions on the Immigration New Zealand website.

Action
Please discuss with your team(s) and ensure that staff understand and act on this information. Nuku’alofa Office is able to assist with verification of police records as necessary and with any related queries.