Affidavit Of Support Immigration Template for New Zealand

An Affidavit of Support Immigration is a sworn statement that legally commits you to financially support someone applying for immigration to New Zealand. This document serves as a crucial component of many visa applications, demonstrating to Immigration New Zealand that the applicant will have adequate financial support and will not rely on public benefits during their stay.

When do you need this document?

You'll need to prepare an Affidavit of Support when sponsoring family members, partners, or other individuals for various New Zealand visa categories. This includes partnership-based visas, family reunification applications, visitor visas where you're providing accommodation, and certain work visa applications where financial support is required. The document is particularly important when the visa applicant cannot demonstrate sufficient personal funds or when Immigration New Zealand requires evidence of ongoing financial support from a New Zealand resident or citizen.

Key legal considerations

Your affidavit creates a legally binding obligation that can have significant financial consequences. You're committing to cover the sponsored person's living expenses, accommodation, and potentially their return travel costs if required. The document must accurately reflect your financial capacity, including income, assets, and existing obligations. Any false statements can result in criminal penalties under the Crimes Act 1961. You should carefully consider the duration of support required, as some visa categories may involve multi-year commitments. Immigration New Zealand may also require you to lodge a financial bond or guarantee, which could be forfeited if you fail to meet your support obligations.

Legal requirements in New Zealand

Under the Immigration Act 2009 and associated regulations, your affidavit must comply with specific statutory declaration requirements outlined in the Statutory Declarations Act 1957. The document must be witnessed by an authorized person such as a Justice of the Peace, solicitor, or notary public. You must provide comprehensive personal details, proof of your relationship with the applicant, and detailed financial information including bank statements, employment records, and asset documentation. Immigration New Zealand requires evidence that your income meets specified thresholds, typically requiring annual income of at least NZ$43,000 plus additional amounts for dependents. The affidavit must specifically address accommodation arrangements, duration of support, and your understanding of the legal obligations involved. Privacy Act 2020 requirements also apply to the collection and use of personal information within the document.