R2.55 How to submit documents

1. Unless the application has been made online (R2.40.1), all documents submitted in support of an application for a residence class visa must be originals, or certified copies.
2. 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.

3. Uncertified electronic copies of documents may be provided in support of an application that has been made online.
4. For all applications, including an online application, an immigration officer may request the original document where it has not been supplied with an application.

R2.55.1 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 criteria set out in instructions.
2. INZ may, at its discretion, require applicants to provide full English translations of documents.
3. Translations must:
   1. not be prepared by an applicant, any member of their family or an immigration adviser assisting with the application; and
   2. be accompanied by the original documents or certified copies; and
   3. be certified as a correct translation made by a person familiar with both languages and competent in translation work; and
   4. bear the stamp or signature of the translator or translation business; and
   5. if applicable, be on the official letterhead of the translation business.
4. 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 07/05/2018