Guidance to help you understand the appeal process and what your options may be

The IPT considers whether Immigration New Zealand (INZ) made the correct decision based on law, facts, and fairness. It has the power to overturn decisions, grant visas, or refer cases back to INZ.

Types of appeals heard by the IPT

Residence visa appeals

If your residence visa has been declined and you believe the decision was incorrect or you have exceptional humanitarian circumstances.

Deportation appeals on humanitarian grounds

Where deportation would be unjust or unduly harsh due to exceptional humanitarian circumstances.

Deportation appeals on the facts

Where Immigration New Zealand has made an error in issuing a deportation liability notice.

Refugee and protection appeals

Where recognition as a refugee or protected person has been declined.

• Your residence visa application has been declined
• You have been issued a deportation liability notice
• You are unlawfully in New Zealand
• You have been refused refugee or protected person status

Missing the deadline almost always results in losing the right to appeal.

• Whether immigration law and policy were correctly applied
• Factual errors in the original decision
• Humanitarian circumstances, including health, family ties, hardship, and the best interests of children
• New evidence not previously considered by INZ

Appeal forms and supporting documents are submitted to the IPT.

Written submissions

Arguments, evidence, and legal grounds are provided by you or your adviser.

INZ response

Immigration New Zealand provides its submissions and original file.

Tribunal assessment

Most appeals are decided on the papers. Deportation appeals by resident visa holders may involve an oral hearing. Hearings often occur 6-8 months after lodging, though urgent cases may be heard sooner.

Decision issued

A written decision is usually provided about a month after the hearing.

Outcomes of an appeal

• Appeal allowed: visa granted or matter referred back to INZ
• Appeal dismissed: original decision stands

Common reasons appeals fail

• Appeal filed late
• Weak or unsupported humanitarian grounds
• Inconsistent or incomplete evidence
• No identifiable legal or procedural error