Get immigration advice

Do I need a licensed immigration adviser?

Every case is different.


Some migrants chose to complete their visa application alone.


Others with factors that complicate their application or for whom their competency in English is a factor may opt to hire an adviser or lawyer.


Under the law anyone giving immigration advice must be licensed by us, unless exempt. Exempt people include lawyers, Citizen’s Advice Bureau workers and public service employees.


Lawyer or adviser

Both licensed immigration advisers and lawyers (or exempt persons) can represent you to Immigration New Zealand or to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal.


Only lawyers can represent you if you wish to appeal a decision in a New Zealand court or seek judicial review. Refugee status claimants may be eligible for legal aid only if represented by a lawyer.

Your options

There are several ways of seeking immigration advice and/or getting help with your visa application.

Below are some options you may want to consider.

Do It Yourself

The majority of people fill their visa application forms by themselves. Some use informal help from friends and family for translation and the Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ) website for guidance.

Licensed immigration advisers

Also known as immigration consultants or immigration agents, advisers are licensed by the Immigration Advisers Authority.

Practising lawyers

Legal professionals with a practising certificate issued by the New Zealand Law Society.

Find a lawyer

Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)

Volunteers and employees give free and confidential immigration advice and offer assistance with completing immigration forms.

Community Law Centres

Volunteers and employees give free and confidential legal advice.
Some specialist in immigration like the Refugee and Immigration Legal Advice Service of the Wellington Community Law Centre.

Find your nearest centre

Others

Government employees who provide immigration advice as part of their job include Members of the New Zealand Parliament, foreign diplomats and their staff in New Zealand

Not-for-profit Advisers

If you are applying for a visa within the Jewish or Sikh community or are a rural general practitioner, there are advisers that may be able to advise you on a not-for-profit basis. For more information contact us.