A13.1 The form in which documents must be submitted

All documents submitted in support of an application must be originals, or certified copies unless uncertified photocopies are specifically requested on the relevant NZIS form or guide.

A13.1.1 Originals

Original documents must:

1. be photocopied or processed immediately; and
2. be returned directly to the owner or the owner's authorised agent (eg, solicitor) as soon as possible (unless the relevant NZIS form or guide specifies that only uncertified photocopies should have been provided, in which case originals should only be returned where requested); and
3. not be released to any other person unless the owner has made a written statement authorising their release to a specified person.

A13.1.5 Certified copies

1. Certified copies must be stamped or endorsed as being true copies of the originals by a person authorised by law to take statutory declarations in the applicant's country or in New Zealand.

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

2. If certified copies are supplied, visa and immigration officers may also request the original documents
3. Visa and immigration officers may certify photocopies submitted with the original document if they are satisfied that the copy agrees with the original in essential details.
4. If the actioning officer is satisfied that the copy is a true copy, they must write on it:
   1. the words "original sighted", and
   2. their initials, and
   3. the date.
5. Officers should accept faxed copies of certified documents only if the originals, or certified copies, are then submitted at the earliest opportunity.
6. Documents with evidence of having been tampered with, or unofficially altered, must be referred to an officer, with schedule 1 delegations, who will decide what further action to take.

A13.1.10 Uncertified photocopies

Where uncertified photocopies of original documents have been provided with such applications, officers may request to see the original documents before making a decision on the application.

Effective 28/06/2004