Resolve Issues

Assistance with declines, appeals, and other complex immigration matters.

What does “resolving immigration issues” involve?

Immigration matters do not always proceed as expected. In some cases, concerns may be raised during an application, or a person’s circumstances may fall outside standard visa requirements.

Resolving immigration issues involves responding to these situations within the framework set by Immigration New Zealand, including providing further information, addressing concerns, or pursuing available legal options.

When issues might arise?

Issues can arise at different stages of the immigration process. This may include situations where:

  • Immigration New Zealand raises concerns about an application
  • requirements are not clearly met or evidenced
  • character or other eligibility issues are identified
  • a visa has been declined or is at risk of being declined

Each situation requires careful assessment based on the specific circumstances.

What does Immigration New Zealand consider?

When reviewing matters involving issues or concerns, Immigration New Zealand will generally consider:

  • the nature of the concern or issue raised
  • any information or explanation provided in response
  • whether relevant requirements can still be met
  • the overall circumstances of the applicant

The outcome will depend on how the situation is addressed and the applicable immigration instructions.

What can affect the outcome?

Matters involving immigration issues often require detailed and structured responses. Factors that may affect the outcome include:

  • how clearly the issue is understood and addressed
  • the quality and relevance of supporting information
  • consistency in the information provided
  • timing and completeness of any response

Because these matters can involve discretion, careful preparation is often important.

Examples of Resolve Issues cases

We have assisted clients with a range of complex situations. The examples below illustrate how different circumstances may be approached.

  • Case 1 – Responding to concerns

    An application involved concerns raised by Immigration New Zealand. A response was required to address the issues and provide supporting information.

  • Case 2 – Character requirements

    A situation involved character-related concerns that required explanation and supporting documentation for consideration.

  • Case 3 – Unlawful status

    A person in New Zealand without a valid visa sought to regularise their situation through a request under the relevant provisions.

  • Case 4 – Appeal process

    A visa decision was challenged through an appeal process, requiring a structured submission based on the applicable framework.

Not sure which resolving issues process applies to you?

  • Different avenues for resolving the issues may exist depending on your situation.

  • You can use our quick assessment tool or contact us to discuss your options.

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Frequently asked questions

  • What is Potentially Prejudicial Information (PPI)?

    Potentially Prejudicial Information refers to concerns or information identified by Immigration New Zealand that may affect the outcome of an application. Applicants are usually given an opportunity to respond.
  • Can I respond to immigration concerns myself?

    It is possible to respond directly. However, responses should clearly address the issues raised and be supported by appropriate information.
  • What is a character waiver?

    A character waiver is a request for Immigration New Zealand to consider granting a visa where character requirements are not met, based on the circumstances of the case.
  • What is a Section 61 request?

    A Section 61 request is a request for a visa to be granted from within New Zealand when a person does not hold a valid visa.
  • Can a declined visa be appealed?

    In some cases, a decision may be appealed to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal, depending on eligibility and the circumstances of the case.

Need Immigration Advice?

If you would like to discuss your situation, you are welcome to get in touch.