Visa Declined? We Can Help.
A declined visa isn't always the end of the road. There are formal legal channels to challenge decisions, request reconsideration, or ask for exceptions. We've helped clients overturn negative outcomes — but timing is critical. The sooner you act after a decline, the more options you have.
Get Started Today
Options Available
Immigration and Protection Tribunal (IPT)
The IPT is an independent body that reviews Immigration New Zealand decisions. If your visa has been declined, you may have the right to a formal appeal. The IPT conducts a fresh review of your case — it's not limited to what INZ considered. You must file your appeal within 28 days of receiving the decline.
Ministerial Appeals
You can request the Minister of Immigration to intervene in your case. This is typically used when standard appeal routes aren't available or have been exhausted. Ministerial intervention is discretionary — there's no guaranteed outcome — but it can be effective in cases with compelling circumstances.
Section 61 Requests
Section 61 of the Immigration Act allows INZ to grant a visa outside normal policy criteria. This is a discretionary power with no automatic right to apply, but it provides a pathway when your situation doesn't fit neatly into standard categories. Strong supporting evidence is essential.
Special Direction Requests
A Special Direction asks INZ to make an exception to standard policy in exceptional circumstances. These are used in unusual situations where strict application of the rules would lead to an unjust outcome.
Judicial Review
If INZ didn't follow correct procedures in making their decision, you can apply to the High Court for judicial review. This doesn't re-examine the merits of your case — it checks whether INZ acted lawfully and fairly in reaching their decision.
Watch Out For
- The 28-day IPT deadline is strict. Miss it and you lose the right to a formal appeal. There are no extensions.
- Acting in the first week after a decline gives the most options. Some pathways close quickly.
- Each option has different requirements. Choosing the wrong channel wastes time you may not have. Get professional advice before filing anything.
This information is general in nature. Immigration policy changes regularly. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.
Need Urgent Immigration Help?
These are time-sensitive processes. The sooner you act after a decline, the better your options.