S2.5 Procedure

1. Applicants must make the request in writing and must include the reasons why they consider they should be granted a special direction.

   Note: The request is not in itself an application for a visa or permit. If an application for residence has not been made and the request for a special direction is granted, a formal application must follow.

2. Applicants overseas who request a special direction should make their request to the nearest branch of the NZIS or accredited MFAT post in their country of residence, or to the Appeals Branch if there is no accredited post.
3. Applicants within New Zealand should make requests to a branch office of the NZIS.
4. If the request is granted, applicants should be advised that a special direction will be made (and if necessary, a temporary permit granted under section 35A to allow the residence application to be made) once they pay the fee for a special direction.
5. Applications for residence may then be processed in the usual way, once the appropriate application fee for the permit has been paid.
6. If a request is refused, neither the Minister of Immigration nor the NZIS is obliged to give reasons for any decision other than the fact that under section 130(6)(b)(i) of the Immigration Act 1987 he or she is not obliged to give reasons for refusing to make a special direction; and section 23 of the Official Information Act 1982 (concerning access for reasons for decisions) does not apply.

Effective 26/07/1999