25 May 2023
Saska Hayes
[FYI request #22578 email]
File No: DOIA 2223-2452
Dear Saska
I refer to your request under the Official Information Act 1982 (the Act) received on 27 April 2023
requesting the following information from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (the
Ministry):
“1. Does Immigration New Zealand use algorithms to identify "high risk countries"?
2. If yes, what elements does this algorithm consider to make these
recommendations/decisions?”
Our Response
Immigration New Zealand does not use algorithms to identify “high risk countries” in its visa Triage or
passenger arrivals process.
However, there are a range of risk controls, in addition to Triage, that are applied to visa applications
that may lead to a visa application being assessed as high risk or requiring additional risk treatment.
This could include referrals for third party checks or for specialist assessment.
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.
If you wish to discuss any aspect of your request or this response, please contact
[email address].
Yours sincerely,
Karen Sionzon
National Manager Al ocation & Support
Verification and Compliance
Immigration New Zealand
Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment