Free immigration advice in New Zealand
Updated 23 July 2026
Free immigration advice is available in New Zealand from a small set of sources that are legally allowed to give it: community law centres and Citizens Advice Bureau staff are exempt from adviser licensing, and some licensed advisers and lawyers offer a free initial consultation. Immigration New Zealand itself provides information about processes and requirements, but its staff do not give advice on what you should do.
Who can legally give free advice
The licensing rules apply to immigration advice whether or not it is paid for, but the Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007 exempts several groups. Community law centres and Citizens Advice Bureau personnel are exempt, which is what makes their free help lawful. Lawyers are exempt too, and family members giving informal help in a personal capacity are outside the regime.
Where to go
- Community law centres, which provide free legal help across New Zealand, including immigration matters
- Citizens Advice Bureau, for free guidance and referral to the right service
- Immigration New Zealand's website and contact centre, for official information on requirements, fees and processing
- Licensed advisers and lawyers offering a free initial consultation, which is a genuine way to test whether your case needs paid help
The limits of free advice
Free services are excellent for understanding your options, checking simple applications and finding out whether you have a problem worth paying to solve. For complex matters, such as declined applications, character or health issues, appeals and deadlines, free services will usually refer you to a licensed adviser or lawyer, because those cases need sustained professional work that free services are not resourced to carry.
Be careful with free advice from unlicensed people, including social media groups and acquaintances in the migration process themselves. Wrong information on a visa application can damage your immigration record for years, and unlicensed paid advice is an offence.
Frequently asked questions
- Is there a government service for free immigration advice in New Zealand?
- Immigration New Zealand provides official information about visas, requirements and processes, but it does not advise you on what to do. For free advice on your situation, community law centres and Citizens Advice Bureau are the main lawful free sources.
- Do immigration advisers offer free consultations?
- Some do, typically a short initial assessment. Others charge for the first consultation, which is also normal. Either way, get any ongoing scope and fees in writing before agreeing to paid work.
- Can my friend or family member give me immigration advice?
- Informal help from family or friends in a personal capacity is outside the licensing regime, but anyone advising in the course of business must be licensed or exempt. Be cautious: applications prepared with wrong information can affect your record even when the helper meant well.
Sources
Ready to engage someone?
Verify any adviser on the licence checker, browse advisers by city, or send one enquiry and we will connect you with a licensed professional.
General information, not immigration advice. Rules change; always check the linked official sources.