7 July 2017 - Reminder – When to accept older versions of paper forms

Visa Pak 317 - Clarification for staff about until when older versions of paper forms would be acceptable.

Visa Paks

07 July 2017

Reminder – When to accept older versions of paper forms

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) forms are amended to reflect changes to immigration instructions. Every time a form is amended the date at the bottom of the form will change to indicate which version it is. INZ will continue to accept earlier versions of amended forms up to a certain date. This information can be found under “Previous editions of forms” on the “Forms and guides” page of the INZ website. Please refer to the link below:

Application forms, guides and checklists

INZ has been advised that in some instances forms are being returned to clients as being no longer acceptable because they are not the latest version; however, the forms are still acceptable according to the INZ website. All INZ offices must accept forms that are recorded as acceptable in the table found on the INZ website.

Accepting forms that are no longer approved

Even if a form version is no longer acceptable, there may be circumstances where it is appropriate to consider a special direction under Regulation 34(1) to waive the requirement for an approved form and accept the application, for example, if the applicant is likely to become unlawful if the application was returned failed lodgement.

Requirements for temporary visa applications can be waived by Schedule 3 officers, while requirements for residence applications can be waived by Schedule 2 officers. In either case, a note should be made confirming that the waiver has been made.

Please note that forms generally expire in July so it is recommended that you familiarise yourself with the table of acceptable forms.