10 March 2026
DOIA-REQ-0027386
David
Email: [FYI request #33681 email]
Tēnā koe David
Thank you for your email of 10 February 2026 to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
(MBIE) requesting, under the Official Information Act 1982 (the Act), the following information:
I am writing to request statistical information relating to the Culturally Arranged Marriage Visitor
Visa.
Specifically, I am seeking totals for each year over the past 5 years (2020-2025, including data
available so far for 2026). If the data is recorded in alternative time periods, I would be happy to
receive it in that format instead.
For each period, could the information please be broken down by nationality and include the
following:
The total number of Culturally Arranged Marriage Visitor Visa applications submitted
The total number of applications granted under this visa category
The total number of applications granted under an alternative visa category
The total number of applications declined
I am writing to advise you that MBIE will provide a response but needs to extend the time available to
answer your request. MBIE’s response will be sent to you no later than 10 April 2026.
The reason for the extension is that your request is for a large quantity of information and meeting the
original time limit would unreasonably interfere with our operations.
If you wish to discuss any aspect of your request or this response, or if you require any further assistance,
please con
tact [email address].
You have the right to seek an investigation and review by the Ombudsman of our decision to extend the
time limit. Information about how to make a complaint is available at
www.ombudsman.parliament.nz or
freephone 0800 802 602.
Nāku noa, nā
Emma Atkins
Manager, Ministerial Services
Office of the Deputy Secretary Immigration
Immigration New Zealand
Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment
