Plain language law

New Zealand law explained for everyone

Immigration Act 2009

“Rules for entering and staying in New Zealand”

This Act manages immigration by balancing the country’s interests with individual rights. You need to have a visa to travel to New Zealand if you’re not a citizen. You also need a visa and entry permission to stay in the country.

The Act sets up rules for immigration. These rules, called immigration instructions, are made to meet goals set by the Minister. These goals might include getting skilled workers for New Zealand and supporting families.

The Act also manages how people enter and leave the country. It sets up a process for following international rules about immigration. There are ways to make sure people follow the immigration rules. Immigration officers can gather information about visa holders, employers, and schools to check if they’re following the rules.

If people who aren’t New Zealand citizens break immigration rules, commit crimes, or are seen as a security risk, they can be deported. The Act creates a special tribunal to look at appeals against decisions made under this Act and to consider appeals based on humanitarian grounds. It also helps migrants, refugees, and protected persons settle in New Zealand. Lastly, the Act allows for a charge to help pay for conservation or tourism costs.

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