Immigration New Zealand (INZ) recently made some amendments to the character requirements which came into force from 2 July 2021.
Instruction A5.15 which was formally titled ‘Applicants not considered to be of good character for a residence class visa’ has been renamed ‘Summary of Character Requirements’.
This change has been done to clarify the scope of character requirements and explains when a visa might be granted if an applicant does not meet them.
Instruction A5.30 describes the character requirements in relation to those who may pose a risk to New Zealand’s international reputation. This includes a person who has or has had an association with, membership of, or involvement with, any government, regime, group or agency that has advocated or committed war crimes, crimes against humanity and/or other gross human rights abuses.
The changes include a clarification that if an immigration officer is satisfied that the nature and extent of the association, membership or involvement was or is minimal or remote, then the visa officer may grant a visa to the applicant, provided all other immigration instructions are met.
Instruction A5.50 which was a similar set of instructions for temporary entry visa applicants, will be removed from the Operational Manual effective on 2 July 2021. The content of A5.50 will be incorporated into A5.30.
If you are confused or have any queries, talk to our team of Licensed Immigration Advisers and have a proper understanding of these changes – and how they might affect you. Please contact Immigration Advisers New Zealand Ltd by sending an email at [email protected] or call us on +64 09 3790219
Vandana Rai is a Senior Licensed Immigration Adviser and has built a reputation around her rare set of skills, which could be considered ideal for her legal profession.