Proof of genuine intentions for New Zealand visa applications and how to avoid the refusal by dreaded E5 clauses

Applying for a New Zealand visa can be an exciting yet stressful process, especially when you encounter terms like “proof of genuine intentions.” This requirement is one of the most critical aspects of your application, and it plays a huge role in whether or not your visa is approved.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about proving your genuine intentions and avoiding the dreaded E5 clauses. Let’s break it down!

What does “Proof of Genuine Intentions” mean?

When applying for a New Zealand visa, you are required to prove that your intentions are legitimate. In other words, you need to show that:

1. You’re coming to New Zealand for the right reasons (tourism, work, study, etc.).
2. You will leave New Zealand at the end of your visa and not overstay or try to remain illegally.

The Genuine Intentions Requirement ensures that you have no intention of using the visa as a means to unlawfully settle in New Zealand or bypass immigration laws.

Key factors immigration officers look for

To prove your genuine intentions, immigration officers will examine the following:

1. Your travel history

A history of compliance with immigration laws (from other countries or previous trips to New Zealand) can strengthen your case. If you’ve consistently followed visa conditions in the past, this signals your genuine intent to follow the rules.

2. Your ties to home country

Officers will look for strong connections in your home country, such as family, a job, property, or community ties. The stronger these ties, the more likely you are to return after your visa expires.

3. Your financial stability

You must prove that you can financially support yourself while in New Zealand. This may include showing savings, a job offer, or proof of income.

4. Your application’s consistency

Ensure that all your information is clear, accurate, and consistent. Inconsistencies or misleading statements could lead to doubts about your intentions.

The Dreaded E5 Clauses: What is it and How to avoid It

The E5 section, in the context of New Zealand immigration, outlines the responsibility of an applicant to demonstrate genuine intent and a lawful purpose for their visa application and the requirement to be a ‘bona fide applicant’ intending a temporary stay in New Zealand. It is divided in to 3 subsections but the key section here is E5.10, a refusal reason used by immigration officers when they suspect that you do not have genuine intentions to stay in New Zealand.

The E5.10 section lists what must be taken into account to determine whether an applicant is bona fide, and includes the personal circumstances of the applicant, including the nature of any personal, financial, employment or other commitments in the home country and New Zealand. It can be a major roadblock if you’re not careful.

Why the E5.10 clause happens

The E5.10 refusal happens when immigration officers believe that you:

• May overstay your visa.
• Might be attempting to circumvent New Zealand’s immigration rules.
• Do not have enough ties to your home country to guarantee you’ll leave once your visa expires.

How to avoid visa refusal by E5.10 and prove your genuine intentions

1. Be transparent and honest

Always provide accurate information in your application. If anything changes during your visa process, update Immigration New Zealand immediately. Avoid withholding any information that might raise suspicion.

2. Provide evidence of strong ties to your home country

This could include:

• Employment: A letter from your employer stating that you are expected to return to work.
• Family: Proof of close family connections like a spouse or children who are dependent on you.
• Property: Ownership of property or other assets in your home country.

3. Show financial stability

Demonstrating that you can financially support yourself in New Zealand is crucial. Provide bank statements, proof of a job offer, or evidence of scholarship funding if you’re applying for a study visa.

4. Attach supporting documents

Including supporting documents can help strengthen your application. Examples include:

• Travel itinerary or bookings (for a visitor visa).
• Offer letter from a New Zealand employer (for work visas).
• Enrollment letter from a New Zealand institution (for student visas).

Getting your New Zealand visa approved doesn’t have to be a stressful process if you take the right steps. Proving your genuine intentions is all about being honest, transparent, and showing that you have every intention of complying with New Zealand’s immigration laws.

By following the tips above, you can ensure that your visa application has the best chance of success and avoid the dreaded E5 clauses.

Good luck, and happy travels to New Zealand! 🌏✨