E4.85 How supporting documents must be submitted

1. All documents submitted in support of an application for a temporary visa or permit must be originals, or certified copies unless uncertified photocopies are specifically requested on the relevant NZIS form or guide.
2. Certified copies must be stamped or endorsed as being true copies of the originals by a person authorised by law in the applicant's country or in New Zealand to take statutory declarations.

   Examples: a lawyer, notary public, Justice of the Peace, or court official.

3. Visa and immigration officers should verify supporting documents as detailed in A13.1.5.

E4.85.1 Translations

1. Any documents not in English must be accompanied by an English translation containing the information normally found in an equivalent New Zealand document, or sufficient information to show that the applicant has met the policy criteria.

   Note: the NZIS may, at its discretion, require applicants to provide full English translations of documents.

2. Translations must:
   1. not be made by an applicant's family member or a person with an interest in the outcome of the application, or an immigration adviser assisting with the application; and
   2. be certified as a correct translation made by a person familiar with both languages and competent in translation work; and
   3. be prepared and certified by a recognised private or official translation service; and
   4. be on the official letterhead of the translation service; and
   5. bear the stamp or signature of the translator; and
   6. bear the full name of the translator; and
   7. be accompanied by the original documents or certified copies.
3. Officers may:
   1. request a translation of the complete document where the translation is of a selected part(s) of the document, and
   2. request a translation by a different (specified) translation service where they are not satisfied by the initial translation.

      Note: If a translation by a different (specified) translation service is requested the reason(s) behind the request must be clearly documented and conveyed to the applicant by INZ.

Effective 28/07/2008