In September 2023, changes were made to the way we respond to false, misleading or withheld information in visa applications.

Changes to how INZ responds to false information

Our immigration system relies on applicants providing honest and complete information to show that they meet the requirements to be granted a visa, or to be allowed to enter New Zealand.

It is important for customers to be diligent in providing true and complete information to INZ, a licensed immigration adviser, or immigration lawyer.

False, misleading or withheld information in a visa application may result in INZ declining the application. Future applications can also be impacted if this happens.

False, misleading or withheld information in visa applications

A visa application can also be declined if an applicant, or an agent acting on their behalf, submits false or misleading information or withholds relevant information.

While we do not need to prove that an applicant personally and intentionally provided false or misleading information before the application can be declined, we will consider surrounding circumstances before an application is decided.

Our immigration officers will not decline applications automatically if there is an instance of false, misleading or withheld information. They use standard operating procedures (SOPs) and are trained on what they need to consider to ensure a proper and fair process.

Where false and misleading information was included in previous applications

Applicants for all visas must meet good character requirements.

If someone previously submitted false or misleading information, or withheld relevant information, any future visa application they submit will require a character assessment.

Character immigration instructions were updated in September 2023 to clarify that immigration officers do not need to prove that an applicant intentionally provided false or misleading information, or withheld relevant information, for there to be a character issue in future applications.

Character waiver processes

Applicants who do not meet character requirements can still be considered for a character waiver.

If false or misleading information is provided, or information has been withheld, INZ will give applicants the opportunity to explain the issue and why they should be granted a character waiver.

A character waiver may be appropriate and will be decided by an appropriately delegated immigration officer who will consider all circumstances surrounding the application.

If a character waiver is granted, then a visa may be issued.

Where false or misleading information is linked to migrant exploitation

Where false or misleading information was provided in a previous visa application, but that incident was connected to a credible report of migrant exploitation, we may disregard that incident when assessing a new visa application under the character immigration instructions.

We will consider the extent of the applicant’s intentions and involvement during their previous application where exploitation was uncovered. This includes an assessment of how diligent the applicant was in ensuring that INZ was provided with complete and accurate information.