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Refugee & Human Rights Law

It is not straightforward to obtain refugee and protected-person status and there are several key criteria that you must fit to receive asylum. Our team are passionate about helping refugees find asylum in New Zealand.

In a world of extreme violence and discrimination, New Zealand is a desirable safe haven for many refugees. However, it is not straightforward to obtain refugee and protected-person status and there are several key criteria that you must fit to receive asylum.

Immigration Law

To be in New Zealand lawfully you must either be a New Zealand Citizen or hold an applicable visa.

Aotearoa New Zealand is a wonderful place to live, and many aspire to live here. Moving to New Zealand can be an arduous journey without the proper guidance and information on hand.

Our immigration lawyers are here to assist you with your immigration matter. Our team is qualified and experienced at helping clients through complex immigration issues, and we can provide you with tailored advice specific to your individual circumstances.

Dixon & Co Lawyers Can Assist You With:

  • Applications for refugee status
  • Applications for protected person status
  • Dealing with Potentially Prejudicial Information letters
  • Responding to interview reports of the Refugee Status Unit
  • Making section 61 requests when a person is unlawfully living in New Zealand
  • Residence appeals to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal
  • Deportation appeals to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal
  • Humanitarian appeals to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal
  • Ministerial appeals or special direction requests; and
  • Appeals to the High Court for decisions to decline refugee or protected person status.

Refugees & Asylum Seekers

How Do I Make A Claim For Refugee Or Protection Status In New Zealand?

Firstly, you must show that you fear being seriously harmed, tortured, or that you risk inhuman or degrading treatment if you return to your country. You will need to lodge a claim seeking refugee or protection status in New Zealand.

Refugee and protection claims may be made in writing or in person. Claims can be made by signifying an intention to claim to a police officer, immigration officer (of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment), or a refugee and protection officer (RPO).

There Are 6 Steps To The Claim Process:
  1. Complete a Confirmation of Claim form.
  2. Submit a written statement.
  3. Attend an interview with an RPO.
  4. Receive a report about your claim.
  5. Make final submissions in support of your claim.
  6. Receive the decision.

The Refugee Status Unit (RSU) will assign your claim to an RPO for processing.

The team at Dixon & Co Lawyers are passionate about helping refugees find asylum in New Zealand. We will work with you and utilise our extensive knowledge and experience in immigration law to help you prove your case should it be valid.

Need help with a refugee or protection status claim?

refugee & Immigration Law

Who We Help?

If you are seeking asylum in New Zealand and are concerned that returning to your home country will cause you harm or the risk of harm, we may be able to assist you with your claim for refugee or protection status.

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Gaining Refugee Status in New Zealand

Lucy Tothill, an experienced Refugee Lawyer from Dixon & Co Lawyers, successfully won an appeal against the Crown in the High Court granting a Nigerian Christian convert refugee status in New Zealand.

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