DMS42-6-10866
PO Box 900, Wel ington 6140
P +64 4 472 6170,
F +64 4 472 8209
www.nzsis.govt.nz
31 March 2023
Mr Wong
[FYI request #22213 email]
Tēnā koe Mr Wong,
Official information request
Thank you for your Official Information Act 1982 (OIA) request of 22 March 2023 to the
New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) seeking information about the average
response time for National Security Checks for resident visa applications. You requested
“data on the average response time for a NSC for SMC Resident Visa applications- from Nov 2022
to March 2023”.
The NZSIS supports border security agencies to maintain the integrity of New Zealand’s
border, and each year we conduct a significant number of National Security Checks (NSC).
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) administers the visa application system, including the
legislative framework under which NSCs are required. The NZSIS does not approve or
decline visa applications, rather we provide assessments, on request, to help INZ make
decisions.
The processing time for individual NSCs varies across the year, for a number of reasons. The
NZSIS conducts NSCs in response to INZ’s priorities, which are dynamic and change
according to circumstances.
However, for the purpose of national security, we do not disclose information about
individuals going through the process, or information about the process itself. As such, I
must refuse your request under section 6(a) of the OIA, as the making available of the
information would be likely to prejudice the security or defence of New Zealand or the
international relations of the Government of New Zealand.
If you wish to discuss this decision with us, please feel free to contact
[NZSIS request email]. You have the right to seek an investigation and review by the
Ombudsman of this decision. Information about how to make a complaint is available at
www.ombudsman.parliament.nz or freephone 0800 802 602.
Ngā mihi
Phil McKee
Te Tumu Whakarae mō Te Pā Whakamarumaru
Acting Director-General of Security
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