My New Zealand visa was declined. What can I do?

General information from Lawmateanz

What you can do depends on the type of visa and where you applied from. Immigration New Zealand's decision letter usually explains your options and any time limits, so read it carefully.

For some temporary visas declined while you were in New Zealand, you can ask for a reconsideration, usually within 14 days. For residence decisions, you may be able to appeal to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal.

If your current visa has expired or is about to, you may become unlawfully in New Zealand, which can lead to deportation. Act quickly and get advice about your status.

You can usually reapply with stronger evidence, but it helps to understand exactly why the first application was declined.

Only licensed immigration advisers and New Zealand lawyers can give immigration advice. You can check an adviser's licence on the Immigration Advisers Authority website.

Written by Lawmateanz, not by a lawyer. General information only, not legal advice about your situation. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer.

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General information only. Answers are written by independent lawyers based only on what's in the question. They aren't legal advice about your situation and don't create a lawyer–client relationship. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer directly.