Character Issues: NZ Immigration

Having character issues does not automatically mean you cannot get a New Zealand visa, but it requires the right approach and careful preparation.

Immigration New Zealand requires all visa applicants to be of good character. Applicants may address character concerns through a Character Waiver or a Special Direction depending on severity. Where a character matter has already led to a refusal, the options after a declined visa cover reconsideration and appeal timeframes.

What counts as character issues

• Criminal convictions (including those that have expired in your home country)
• Pending arrests or investigations
• Providing false or misleading information on visa applications
• Failing to notify INZ of changed circumstances during processing
• Past visa overstaying or deportation from any country
• Exploitation of migrant workers
• Breaching sponsorship requirements

Two pathways

Character Waiver (for less serious issues)

For less serious character concerns, you can apply for a Character Waiver. You need to demonstrate to INZ that despite your past conviction or issue, you meet the good character requirements. This typically involves:

• Evidence of rehabilitation
• References
• A strong written explanation of your circumstances

Special Direction (for serious issues)

For serious character concerns, a Special Direction from the Minister of Immigration is required, which can also support an onshore Section 61 request where status needs to be restored. Special Directions apply when:

• Removal, exclusion, or deportation from any country
• A sentence of 5 or more years imprisonment
• A sentence of more than 1 year in the last 10 years
• A ban on entering New Zealand
• Being a threat to public order, interest, or security

See Special Directions guide for the Special Direction process.

How to address character issues

1. Make a strong case: explain the background, why it occurred, and what you have done since
2. Provide evidence: court records, character testimonials, rehabilitation evidence
3. Be completely honest, as misleading information will seriously damage your application
4. Reference relevant law: your response must address specific character requirements
5. Meet strict deadlines: INZ timeframes cannot be extended

Practical next step

If you have any past convictions, deportation history, or character matters, raise them with your adviser BEFORE lodging; strategy depends on severity, time elapsed, and rehabilitation evidence. A character matter raised proactively in a properly framed application is far more manageable than one that surfaces during INZ review.

Source: immigration.govt.nz, verified as of 2026-04-13.