Immigration decisions are among the most consequential you'll make. A good immigration adviser can guide you through complex processes, while a poor choice can result in wasted money, failed applications, and damaged immigration prospects. This guide helps you choose wisely.
Why Use a Licensed Adviser
The Licensing Requirement
In New Zealand, providing immigration advice is regulated:
Licensed Only: Only licensed immigration advisers may provide immigration advice for gain.
Immigration Advisers Authority: The IAA licenses and regulates advisers.
Legal Requirement: Unlicensed advice is illegal in most circumstances.
Exceptions: Some exempt persons (lawyers, MPs, specific community roles).
Benefits of Professional Help
Expertise: Understanding current policy and requirements.
Experience: Knowledge of what works and what doesn't.
Representation: Someone advocating on your behalf.
Efficiency: Avoiding mistakes that cause delays.
Strategy: Planning optimal pathways.
When You Might Need Help
Complex Cases: Character issues, health concerns, multiple pathways.
Important Applications: Residence, business immigration.
Time Pressure: When deadlines are tight.
Past Problems: Previous declines or concerns.
Peace of Mind: Confidence that it's done correctly.
Finding an Adviser
Search Options
This Directory: Use our adviser directory to find licensed advisers.
IAA Register: Check the official IAA register.
Referrals: Ask others who've used advisers.
Professional Associations: NZAMI membership indicates standards.
Verifying Licence Status
Always Check: Verify any adviser's licence before engaging.
IAA Website: Official register at iaa.govt.nz.
Current Licence: Confirm licence is current, not expired.
No Conditions: Check for any licence conditions.
Service Specialization
Consider advisers who specialize in your needs:
Work Visas: Employer accreditation, AEWV experience.
Residence: SMC, partnership, category experience.
Business Immigration: Entrepreneur, investor expertise.
Appeals: IPT experience for complex cases.
Specific Industries: Healthcare, IT, construction experience.
What to Look For
Key Qualities
Experience: Years in practice and volume of cases.
Success Rate: Track record with relevant applications.
Communication: Responsive and clear communication.
Transparency: Clear about costs, timelines, chances.
Specialization: Experience with your type of case.
Credentials and Affiliations
Full Licence: Licensed by IAA.
NZAMI Membership: Professional association membership.
Continuing Education: Stays current with policy changes.
Good Standing: No disciplinary actions.
Initial Consultation
Most advisers offer initial consultations:
Assessment: Review of your situation.
Options: Explanation of possible pathways.
Recommendation: Suggested approach.
Costs: Fee estimate for services.
Chemistry: Do you feel comfortable with them?
Questions to Ask
About Their Practice
- How long have you been a licensed adviser?
- How many cases like mine have you handled?
- What's your success rate for this visa type?
- Do you specialize in any particular areas?
About Your Case
- What are my options?
- What's the best pathway for me?
- What are the main risks or challenges?
- What's the realistic timeline?
- What's my chance of success?
About Fees and Process
- What's your fee structure?
- What's included in that fee?
- What additional costs might arise?
- How will you communicate with me?
- Who will handle my case?
About Problems
- What if additional information is requested?
- What if my application is declined?
- How do you handle complex situations?
- What's your policy if I'm not satisfied?
Understanding Fees
Fee Structures
Fixed Fee: Set price for defined services.
Hourly Rate: Charged by the hour.
Combination: Fixed for straightforward work, hourly for complexity.
Staged Payments: Payment at milestones.
What Affects Fees
Complexity: More complex cases cost more.
Time Required: Amount of work involved.
Adviser Experience: More experienced advisers may charge more.
Location: Prices vary by region.
Service Level: Premium service levels cost more.
What Should Be Included
Assessment: Initial evaluation of your case.
Preparation: Gathering and organizing documents.
Application: Completing and submitting forms.
Follow-Up: Responding to INZ requests.
Communication: Keeping you informed.
Additional Costs
Immigration Fees: Paid to INZ (usually you pay directly).
Medical Costs: Panel physician costs.
Translations: Certified document translations.
Police Certificates: Obtaining clearances.
Courier Costs: Shipping documents.
Red Flags to Avoid
Warning Signs
Unlicensed: Not on the IAA register (biggest red flag).
Guarantees Success: No one can guarantee visa approval.
Avoids Questions: Evasive about their qualifications or process.
Pressure Tactics: Pushing you to sign quickly.
Cash Only: Avoids documentation of payment.
No Agreement: Won't provide written service agreement.
Concerning Behaviour
Suggests Dishonesty: Advises providing false information.
Criticizes INZ: Excessive negativity about Immigration NZ.
Promises Connections: Claims special influence with INZ.
Confusing Information: Can't explain things clearly.
Poor Communication: Unresponsive or dismissive.
If Something Goes Wrong
Raise Concerns: Discuss issues with the adviser first.
Formal Complaint: Complaints to the IAA if serious concerns.
Legal Options: May have legal recourse for negligence.
New Adviser: Consider engaging alternative adviser.
Working with Your Adviser
Your Responsibilities
Truthful Information: Always provide accurate information.
Timely Response: Respond promptly to requests.
Documents: Provide required documents when asked.
Communication: Keep adviser informed of changes.
Follow Advice: Trust their professional guidance.
Their Responsibilities
Professional Service: Competent handling of your case.
Communication: Keep you reasonably informed.
Representation: Advocate for your interests.
Compliance: Follow IAA rules and standards.
Confidentiality: Protect your private information.
Effective Partnership
Clear Expectations: Understand what each party will do.
Regular Updates: Stay informed on progress.
Questions Welcome: Ask when you don't understand.
Documentation: Keep records of communications.
Complaints and Problems
The IAA Complaints Process
If you have concerns:
Raise with Adviser: Try to resolve directly first.
Formal Complaint: Submit to IAA if unresolved.
Investigation: IAA investigates complaints.
Possible Outcomes: Warnings, conditions, suspension, or cancellation of licence.
Grounds for Complaints
Negligence: Failing to provide adequate service.
Misconduct: Unethical or improper behaviour.
Dishonesty: Deceptive practices.
Overcharging: Unreasonable fees.
Unlicensed Practice: Providing advice without proper licence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I expect to pay for an immigration adviser?
Fees vary widely. Simple work visa cases might cost $1,000-$2,500. Residence applications often cost $3,000-$6,000 or more. Complex cases can be higher. Get quotes from multiple advisers.
Can I do my visa application myself?
Yes, for straightforward cases. But complex cases, important applications (like residence), or situations with complications often benefit from professional help.
How do I know if an adviser is any good?
Check IAA registration, ask for references, look for reviews, ask about their specific experience with your type of case, and assess your comfort level during consultation.
What if my adviser makes a mistake?
Raise it with them first. If unresolved, complain to the IAA. You may have grounds for legal action for negligence causing harm.
Can I change advisers during my application?
Yes, you can change advisers at any time. There may be fee implications for work already done, and transition issues to manage.
Ready to find the right immigration adviser? Search our directory to find licensed advisers who match your needs.