A13.1 The form in which documents must be submitted (22/08/2016)

1. Unless the exceptions at (b) below applies, any passport provided as evidence of an applicant’s identity must be the original document, and any certificate of identity, birth certificate or other document provided as evidence of an applicant’s identity must be either the original or a certified copy.
2. Documents specified in (a) do not need to be original or certified copies if provided in support of an application made:
   1. on an electronic form; or
   2. by a diplomatic or consular official for a temporary entry class visa; or
   3. for reconsideration of a decision to decline a further temporary entry class visa.
3. All other documents submitted in support of an application must be originals, or certified copies, unless:
   1. uncertified copies are specifically requested on the relevant INZ form or guide; or
   2. the application is made on an electronic form, in which case a legible scan of the original document must be provided in the manner specified by the online form or by an immigration officer; or
   3. the application is for a temporary entry class visa, in which case a legible copy of the original document may be provided.
4. Despite (a) and (c) above, original documents must be provided if specifically requested on the relevant INZ form or guide, or if requested by an immigration officer.

A13.1.1 Originals

Original documents must:

1. be copied or processed immediately; and
2. be returned directly to the owner or the owner's authorised agent (e.g. solicitor) as soon as possible; 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, immigration officers may also request the original documents.
3. An immigration officer may certify copies 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, it must be marked with:
   1. the words "original sighted"; and
   2. the date.
5. An immigration officer 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 immigration officer, with Schedule 1-3 delegations, who will decide what further action to take.

A13.1.10 Uncertified copies

1. Where uncertified copies of original documents have been provided, an immigration officer may request to see the original documents before making a decision on the application.
2. Uncertified copies must be legible and an accurate reflection of the original document.

Effective 22/08/2016