6243 (2026). Ricardo Menéndez March to the Minister of Immigration

6243 (2026). Ricardo Menéndez March to the Minister of Immigration: What is the current operational practice, if any, when Immigration New Zealand (INZ) compliance officers encounter a person at a residence or workplace whom they believe may be unlawfully in New Zealand or in breach of visa conditions?

Hon Erica Stanford: I am advised that all situations are dealt with on a case by case basis in compliance with the Immigration Act 2009, and information contained in Standard Operating Procedures and Compliance Officers' training. A Compliance officer will firstly identify themselves (using a warrant card they produce) and then they will ask the person to identify themselves and confirm their immigration status. If the person refuses to engage with the compliance officer then no further action can be taken. The current legislative gap between "is" liable and "may be" liable is what the upcoming Immigration Amendment Bill is intended to address.