[2025] NZIACDT 57, SH v McGarrigle (Zamelia McGarrigle)

“Sanctions / complainant engaged adviser to seek visa for adult daughter / adviser incorrectly advised complainant that the client was beyond the dependence age and could only apply for a visitor, student or work visa / Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007, s442 / Code of Conduct 2014, cl1, cl5, cl6, cl19l, cl26f / five failures of five professional obligations / wrongdoing involved undisclosed eligibility for commission for acting as school’s agent / incorrect advice for resident visa eligibility had severe consequences for client / lack of diligence and due care / immaterial that complainant did not follow internal complaints procedure / first appearance / adviser has no insight into wrongdoing, no remorse, and offers no apology / adviser censured / no training order required as adviser relinquished licence / $1,500 financial penalty / adviser ordered to pay $9,145.25 in compensation, reflecting visa and tuition fees, and emotional harm to complainant and client”