Criminal Convictions Convictions and Character Waiver for New Zealand residency If you have a criminal conviction or negative immigration history but want to get residency in New Zealand, you can request a character waiver during the application process. In brief, everyone entering New Zealand must be of be of good character and not pose a potential security risk.
So when is a Character Waiver required? Applicants will not normally be granted a residence visa if they have been:
•convicted at any time of any offence against the immigration, citizenship or passport laws.
•convicted at any time of any offence involving prohibited drugs.
•convicted at any time of any offence involving dishonesty.
•convicted at any time of any offence of a sexual nature.
•convicted at any time of any offence for which they were sentenced to a term of
imprisonment.
•convicted at any time of any offence involving violence.
•convicted at any time during the last five years, of an offence involving dangerous driving.
•driving having consumed excessive alcohol (including drunk driving and driving with a
blood.
•breath alcohol content in excess of a specified limit) or driving having consumed drugs.
•in the course of applying for a New Zealand visa has made any statement or provided any
material information.
information, evidence or submission that was false, misleading or forged, or withheld
•in support of any application by another person for a New Zealand visa, has made any statement or provided any information, evidence or submission that was false, misleading or forged.
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