How to Prove You are a 'Bona Fide' Visitor to NZ

When applying for a New Zealand visitor visa, applicants must satisfy Immigration New Zealand (INZ) that they are a genuine or 'bona fide' visitor. In short, this means proving that they genuinely intend to visit New Zealand temporarily for a lawful purpose, such as tourism or visiting family, and that they will leave New Zealand before their visa expires.

A visitor visa can be declined if INZ believes that the applicant may overstay, work unlawfully, or use the visa to remain in New Zealand long term. Therefore, INZ carefully assesses an applicant’s personal circumstances.

Addressing Common Concerns

Common concerns relate to family ties in the applicant’s home country when they have close family members living in New Zealand, such as parents or siblings. In these instances, INZ may question whether the applicant has sufficient reasons to return home after their visit.

To address these concerns, applicants should provide evidence showing they have strong reasons to return to their home country. This may include evidence of:

• A partner remaining overseas

• Children living in the home country

• Ongoing employment or business commitments

• Property ownership or financial assets

• Family responsibilities outside New Zealand

Employment and financial circumstances are also important factors. For example, if an applicant has limited income in their home country, INZ may be concerned that the applicant could attempt to stay in New Zealand for better economic opportunities. In these situations, applicants should provide documents demonstrating financial stability and genuine commitments overseas. Examples of useful evidence include:

• Employment agreements or employer letters confirming approved leave

• Payslips or bank statements

• Business ownership documents

• Evidence of property ownership or investment

• Return flight bookings

• Travel history showing the applicant previously travelled overseas and returned home lawfully

Application Credibility

INZ also considers the overall credibility of the application. A clear explanation of the purpose of travel, length of stay, accommodation arrangements, and funding for the trip can help strengthen the visa application.

The burden is on the applicant to prove they are a genuine temporary visitor. Overseas applicants for a visitor visa should prepare their applications very carefully, because INZ does

not often provide an opportunity to respond to their concerns before deciding a visitor visa application.

If INZ has raised concerns that you are a 'bona fide' visitor, or if you require assistance with any visa application, please contact BK Immigration Law NZ.

Contact BK Immigration Law