A visa decline isn't necessarily the end. Reconsideration within 14 days (NZD 220, temporary visas), IPT appeal within 42 days (residence visas), alternative visa types, or Section 61 if unlawfully in NZ.
Having your New Zealand visa application declined is stressful, but it isn’t necessarily the end of the road. Depending on your situation, you may have several options.
If you are onshore with a current specific temporary visa, you have a right of reconsideration within 14 days of the decline.
You have the right to appeal to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal (IPT) within 42 days of the decision. This is a strict deadline — missing it eliminates the appeal route.
You only get ONE reconsideration application per visa decision. Make it count — professional preparation significantly improves your chances. A poorly prepared reconsideration can foreclose your best route to outcome on a case that may have been winnable.
The 14-day reconsideration window (temporary) and 42-day appeal window (residence) start running the moment you receive the decline. Act fast — even getting a consultation booked within the first few days preserves your options. The “I’ll wait and see” approach almost always means the deadline passes.
Last reviewed . Information may have changed since this article was reviewed. For your specific case, talk to a licensed immigration adviser.