Character requirements are fundamental to every NZ visa application. Police certificates from countries lived in for 12+ months over past 10 years. When character waivers are possible. Less-serious offences don't always mean decline.
Character requirements are a fundamental part of every New Zealand visa application. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) assesses applicants to ensure they are of good character and do not pose a risk to the safety and security of the country. Understanding these requirements early in the application process can save significant time and prevent unexpected complications.
All visa applicants aged 17 and over must provide police certificates from every country they have lived in for 12 months or more over the past 10 years.
INZ uses these certificates to check for:
Certain convictions can result in automatic decline of a visa application:
However, less serious offences do not necessarily mean your application will be refused. INZ assesses character in the round, considering factors like time elapsed, rehabilitation, and the nature of the offence.
In some cases, applicants with character issues may be eligible for a character waiver. INZ can grant waivers when:
The waiver process requires a well-prepared submission that:
If you have any character concerns, address them BEFORE lodging your visa application — don’t hope they won’t surface. A character matter raised in a properly prepared waiver request is far easier for INZ to assess than the same issue surfacing during processing. Professional preparation of character waiver applications significantly affects outcomes.
Last reviewed . Information may have changed since this article was reviewed. For your specific case, talk to a licensed immigration adviser.