Immigration Officer

Tasks & duties

Immigration officers may do some or all of the following:

• provide information about immigration laws, policies and procedures
• answer written and phone enquiries
• read, check and decide on applications for residency or entry into New Zealand
• interview applicants
• explain decisions to applicants
• issue permits and visas 
• assess potential immigration risks
• investigate breaches of immigration laws
• advise on immigration policy and operations

Skills & knowledge

Immigration officers need to have:

• knowledge and understanding of a range of cultures
• good interviewing and communication skills
• analytical and research skills

The ability to speak another language is also useful.

Entry requirements

To become an immigration officer you need to be a New Zealand citizen or have permanent residency.

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is needed to enter further training.

Tertiary education

A tertiary education is preferred for the role.

Training on the job

Upon entering the role, immigration officers are required to pass warrant training. Skills and knowledge about immigration laws, policies and official procedure are gained on the job. All immigration officers receive ongoing policy and procedure training (including policy updates introduced four times a year).

Useful experience

Experience in welfare agency work, office and computer work, and work that involves contact with people or customer service is useful for immigration officers. Experience living or working overseas and/or using a second language is also an advantage.

For more information, please refer to Career Services.