Update from Immigration New Zealand

Conflict in the Middle East

We understand this is a distressing and uncertain time for many people affected by the situation in Iran and the wider Middle East. We have great sympathy for those who are separated from their loved ones or whose travel plans have been disrupted.

We are working closely with other government agencies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), to make sure we can respond appropriately if circumstances change.

We are taking a practical and understanding approach to visa applications when people are affected by things outside their control. For all new applications, Iranian nationals can still apply for all the same visa categories that were available before the current situation.

We recognise that, in these circumstances, it may not be possible for people to access all usual documentation. Where this occurs, applicants should submit what information they can access.

People should use our escalation process for urgent applications if needed:

Escalation for urgent applications(external link) — Immigration NZ

Any decision to introduce a special visa category or make changes to immigration settings in response to the situation in Iran would be a matter for the Government.

Advice for temporary visa holders in New Zealand affected by travel disruptions is available here:

Middle east advice for temporary visa holders in New Zealand affected by travel disruptions(external link) — Immigration NZ

More information is available on the INZ website:

Immigration New Zealand’s response to the situation in Iran(external link) — Immigration NZ

Student visa applications: missed intakes and next steps

Some students who applied for visas to study in 2026 have not received a decision in time to begin their study. This includes students who applied too late for their visa, as well as students who applied in time, but parts of their application took longer to assess.

If they did not receive a visa decision in time for their intended study start date, their options now depend on their next intake date:

• If students can start studying later in 2026: Where requirements are met, we can approve their application in principle. They will need to send us the outstanding information by the due date provided. Their visa can be granted if the outstanding requirements are met.
• If students cannot start studying until 2027: We recommend they withdraw their application and ask for a refund of the application fee. This is because information and supporting documentation becomes outdated, and personal circumstances, including health, may change. Their application should be submitted around September 2026 for the 2027 academic year.

More information on processing timeframes:

Student visa wait times(external link) — Immigration NZ