Receiving and processing offices

At a glance

Immigration New Zealand maintains a network of receiving and processing offices, including Visa Application Centres (VACs), where visa applications and supporting documents can be lodged as required by immigration instructions [A-appendix-2-receiving-and-processing-offices][E4.15]. The current list of offices is published on the Immigration New Zealand website.

Role & responsibilities

Receiving and processing offices are the entry points for visa applications. They accept applications and supporting documents, check that forms are correctly completed, and forward materials to the appropriate processing teams. Visa Application Centres, managed by third-party service providers, also offer application lodgement services, biometric collection, and passport handling [A-appendix-2-receiving-and-processing-offices].

As part of the lodgement process, all application forms must be stamped with the date of the day they are lodged. Visa Application Centres are authorised to perform this stamping on behalf of INZ. [E4.35] INZ staff must record the date any supporting information or evidence is received, in accordance with the Staff Toolkit. [E4.35]

Interpretation & edge cases

• The list of receiving and processing offices, including VACs, is maintained online and may change. Applicants should always consult the INZ website for the most current office locations and services before lodging their application.
• Under E4.15, if an application is lodged at an incorrect office, it may be referred to the appropriate office. [E4.15]

Citations

• A-appendix-2-receiving-and-processing-offices — Appendix 2 – Receiving and processing offices
• E4.15 — Where to lodge an application
• E4.35 — Receipt of applications