Chinese Tourist Gets Phone Interview Before Boarding, Visa Cancelled On the Spot – New Zealand Immigration Responds
Staff Writer: Yima
Recently, tourists traveling to New Zealand have faced increasing challenges. First, tourist visas are often denied, and even after obtaining one, issues can arise right before boarding the plane.
In a recent incident, a Chinese tourist experienced a “terrifying phone interview” before boarding, causing alarm among others planning trips to New Zealand. In response, the reporter reached out to New Zealand Immigration for an official explanation.
Chinese Tourist Misses Flight Due to Phone Interview at Boarding Gate
A Chinese tourist recently shared his story of holding a valid New Zealand visa but being subjected to a phone interview at the boarding gate.
According to the tourist, he planned to travel to New Zealand at the end of July 2024. After submitting his application in August, he received a five-year New Zealand visa on August 9. Once the visa was granted, he began arranging his itinerary, booking flights and accommodation, and submitting his entry application via the NZTD app.
However, on his departure day, a typhoon disrupted his flight from Hangzhou to Shenzhen for a layover. He had to cancel and rebook a direct flight from Shanghai to New Zealand, updating his entry information accordingly.
On the day of departure, after checking in at Shanghai Airport, he was just under an hour away from boarding when the unexpected happened. When scanning his boarding pass at the gate, he was flagged for further checks. The staff informed him that he needed to undergo a phone interview with New Zealand Immigration. By this time, the plane was about to depart, and the doors were closing soon.
Shocked, he followed the staff back to the airline’s office for the phone interview. During the interview, New Zealand Immigration questioned him about the purpose of his trip, return flight details, travel plans (requiring booking records), financial situation (including cash amounts or credit card balances), education background, travel history, and marital status. If answering in English was difficult, an online translator could be provided. The interview lasted about an hour, and although he passed, the plane had already departed, forcing him to reschedule for the next day.
After rescheduling, the airline staff advised him to check in earlier the following day to avoid another potential interview causing a missed flight.
His travel companion did not encounter the same issue, which he speculated was because his companion had submitted proof of funds and a letter of explanation with their visa application. Another reason could be his flight change and update of entry information, triggering the interview. However, New Zealand Immigration did not provide a clear explanation.
Other Tourists Experience Similar Situations, Some Have Visas Cancelled
Many others have found the situation baffling, wondering why tourist visas are subjected to such scrutiny. One person shared: “Before it happens, no one thinks it’s real.”
Many tourists have shared their experiences of undergoing phone interviews.
Some missed their flights due to the interview.
Some had the interview but still managed to catch their flight.
One person had their visa cancelled at Shanghai Pudong Airport before boarding during the Chinese New Year, with the reason cited as “discrepancies between statements and facts.”
This has led to widespread dissatisfaction among many travelers.
“It seems only New Zealand conducts these interviews. What’s the point?”
“Hearing this just makes me angry.”
“This is ridiculous.”
Many believe that if they aren’t allowed to enter, their visa should have been denied from the start. Conducting interviews just before boarding seems absurd.
“New Zealand’s system is messed up. Just don’t issue the visa if you don’t want us to enter.”
However, it appears New Zealand’s visa system works this way: the interview is only triggered at check-in.
Some are concerned that they may miss the phone call, but others have noted that New Zealand Immigration contacts the airline directly, so even if the traveler’s phone is off, they could still be selected for the interview.
New Zealand Immigration Responds: Having a Visa Doesn’t Guarantee Entry
In response to concerns about the phone interview, Peter Elms, a Border Affairs Officer at New Zealand Immigration, provided the following explanation.
He stated, “Having a visa does not guarantee you can enter New Zealand.” This is also clearly stated on the New Zealand Immigration website.
Key Point: Having a Visa ≠ Guaranteed Entry
Elms further explained, “New Zealand Immigration (INZ) border officials do not conduct pre-departure phone interviews. However, if an airline contacts us, we will speak with the passenger to resolve concerns about their eligibility to enter New Zealand.”
Key Point: Phone Interviews Are Initiated by Airlines
But why do travelers to New Zealand seem to face these interviews more often than those going to other countries? While New Zealand Immigration shifts the responsibility to airlines, only they know the detailed reasons behind this process.
Elms also emphasized the importance of visa holders' genuine intentions: “All applicants must meet the immigration requirements of the visa category they applied for. Visa applicants must demonstrate genuine intent to temporarily visit New Zealand and return to their home country at the end of their stay.”
Key Point: Travel Plans and Purpose Are Crucial
Lastly, he noted, “Immigration officers may request evidence supporting your entry into New Zealand. They may ask to see your departure ticket or proof of financial support during your stay.”
Key Point: Financial Proof and Return Tickets Are Important
Further information about travel preparations can be found on the New Zealand Immigration website.
Despite the complaints, the system is set, and travelers have no choice but to be well-prepared to avoid any surprises.
There are many potential reasons for triggering a phone interview. One speculation is that timing matters. If the entry date submitted in the application differs from the actual entry date, it might prompt further checks.
New Zealand Immigration has not provided a clear response, but one of the reasons that can lead to a visa being revoked before entry is: “changes in personal circumstances after the visa is granted.” A change in travel plans might count as such a change.
If a traveler cannot provide clear proof of funds or travel plans, their visa may be cancelled.
This is a key point to keep in mind. If possible, it’s best to keep financial proof and travel plans stored on your phone or printed as hard copies before boarding, so that you can provide clear explanations if needed.