A Special Direction is an intervention under the Immigration Act 2009 that allows certain immigration requirements or restrictions to be set aside in exceptional circumstances.
It sits outside normal visa processing and is generally only considered when a situation falls outside standard policy, and no usual immigration pathway remains.
A Special Direction may allow Immigration New Zealand to:
Special Directions are discretionary and granted sparingly.
There is no automatic right to a Special Direction. However, a request may be appropriate where:
All standard visa options have been exhausted
A person is facing removal or deportation
A legal barrier prevents Immigration New Zealand from granting a visa
Serious humanitarian circumstances are involved
Family unity, health, or child welfare would be significantly affected
There is no prescribed form. A well-prepared request typically includes:
A clear explanation of why standard immigration pathways cannot work
A complete and accurate immigration history
Evidence of exceptional hardship or compelling circumstances
Independent supporting documents (health, family, humanitarian factors, as relevant)
Information demonstrating strong ties to New Zealand and/or contribution to New Zealand
Submissions should be clear, factual, respectful, and carefully balanced.
The Minister (or delegated senior officer) is not required to consider or respond to are quest
There is no appeal right if a request is declined
Decisions are discretionary and highly selective
While Special Direction decisions are made at a Ministerial or senior level, our expertise is in assessing whether a request is appropriate, preparing disciplined submissions, and presenting your circumstances clearly and responsibly for consideration.
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