If you find yourself in New Zealand with an expired visa, it is crucial to take certain steps to prevent any legal issues. Fortunately, the NZEIC has a team of experts who can guide you through the necessary procedures. Let’s delve into it further:

1. Visa Expiry Date:

– You can find the date your visa expires in your passport or the eVisa letter that was sent to you when your visa was granted. It’s crucial to leave New Zealand on or before this date.

2. Staying Longer:

– If you need to stay beyond your visa expiry date, you cannot extend your current visa. Instead, you must apply for another visa or a temporary visa before your current one expires.

– To apply for a temporary visa, you must:

  – Be in New Zealand.

  – Hold a current visa that is not a limited, interim, or transit visa.

  – Apply for the new visa at least 1 month before your current visa’s expiry date.

3. Consequences of Overstaying:

– Staying in New Zealand after your visa expires is considered breaking the law.

– Here’s what happens if you overstay:

  – You cannot work or study.

  – You lose access to health care.

  – If you remain without a valid visa for 42 days or longer, you risk being detained or deported.

  – Your actions can also affect others who assist you in staying illegally.

4. Section 61 Request:

– If you’re still in New Zealand after your visa expires and believe you have a special case, you can make a Section 61 request.

– Section 61 requests are considered on a case-by-case basis.

– Here’s how to make a request:

  – Put your request in writing and email it to: [email protected].

  – Explain your circumstances fully and attach any evidence to support your request.

  – Do not provide credit card details with your request.

  – If approved, a special temporary or resident visa may be granted under Section 61 of the Immigration Act 2009.