Reconsiderations

If your temporary visa application is declined, you may have one last opportunity to stay through a request for reconsideration. 

This pathway is available to onshore applicants (those who are physically in New Zealand) and can make a critical difference in your immigration outcome. This guide explains when and how to request reconsideration, what evidence is needed, common mistakes, and how Visa Matters can help.

What Is a Reconsideration Request?

A reconsideration is a formal request asking Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to review a declined temporary visa decision. It is only available to applicants who:

• are in New Zealand on a valid temporary visa (including an interim visa)
• apply within 14 days of being declined a temporary visa application

This option is not available to offshore applicants or those applying for residence visas.

How to Request Reconsideration

• Complete the reconsideration application
• Write a cover letter outlining why the decision should be reversed
• Provide supporting evidence, which may include:
  –  Updated or new documents
  –  Clarifications or corrections
  –  Evidence of hardship, error, or special circumstances
• Pay the reconsideration application fee 
• Submit the request online or by post to the appropriate INZ branch (depending on INZ’s requirement)

INZ will assign a new immigration officer to assess the request. The original decision maker will not review the case again.

What Grounds Are Considered?

INZ will consider:

• Whether the original decision was correct
• Whether new evidence changes the outcome
• Whether the decline was based on an error or misunderstanding
• Whether special circumstances warrant approval as an exception to policy

You must clearly demonstrate why the decision should be reversed and address the reasons cited in the decline letter.

Common Reasons for Temporary Visa Declines

• Insufficient funds (including lack of evidence of the source of funds)
• Incomplete documents
• Doubts about genuine intentions
• Health or character issues

Addressing these concerns with solid, targeted evidence is essential.

What Happens After You Submit?

• INZ may contact you for further clarification
• Processing usually takes 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the complexity
• If your current visa expires while the reconsideration is under review, you will be unlawfully in New Zealand. However, you cannot be deported while the application is being reviewed.

If the reconsideration is approved:

• You’ll be issued a visa as if it had been granted initially

If declined:

• You can apply again for a temporary visa if you still hold a visitor visa, student visa or work visa
• If you don’t hold any valid visa, or if you hold an interim visa, you will need to leave New Zealand promptly before you are served a deportation order. At the earliest, you could be served a deportation order 42 days after INZ’s reconsideration decision has been made (if you were unlawfully in New Zealand at that time).

Risks and Strategic Considerations

• You only get one chance at reconsideration
• Submitting weak or rushed documents can hurt your credibility
• If you’re already unlawful, reconsideration is not an option — you must request a Section 61 visa instead

Why Use Visa Matters for Reconsideration Applications?

We’ve helped many clients get approvals after declines by:

• Identifying flaws in the original decision
• Preparing detailed, persuasive submissions
• Collecting targeted evidence quickly
• Managing urgent cases within tight deadlines

Final Thoughts

A reconsideration request is often your final chance to stay in New Zealand legally. It must be done with care, urgency, and precision.

If your visa has been declined and you are still in New Zealand, contact Visa Matters immediately. Our licensed advisers can assess your case and act swiftly to protect your immigration status.