Indian National Sentenced to 9 Months of Home Detention for Obtaining New Zealand Residence under a False Identity

Charanjit Singh, an Indian national, has been sentenced to 9 months of home detention after pleading guilty to two representative charges under the Immigration Act 2009 for obtaining New Zealand residence under a false identity. Singh had unlawfully stayed in New Zealand by not departing when his visa had expired. Upon returning to India, he acquired a passport with a different name and date of birth, which he used to apply for a visa to return to New Zealand.

By hiding his previous immigration history and submitting his application under a false identity, Singh deceived Immigration New Zealand (INZ) into granting him a visa. Singh continued to submit additional visa applications, providing false information about his true identity until he was eventually granted New Zealand residence. INZ conducted an investigation that revealed Singh had supplied false identity information to obtain several New Zealand visas.

Stephanie Greathead, Immigration National Manager Investigations, stated that Singh deliberately misled INZ by withholding relevant information about his real identity. Every individual who applies for a visa has a responsibility to tell the truth, and those found guilty of lying or intentionally withholding information can be prosecuted under the Act. Now that Singh has been convicted, consideration of deportation proceedings will commence.

Obtaining New Zealand residence under a false identity is a serious offence that can lead to imprisonment, deportation, or other serious consequences. As demonstrated in Singh's case, INZ takes immigration fraud very seriously and will conduct thorough investigations to identify those who violate the rules. Visa applicants are advised to always tell the truth and provide accurate information during the visa application process to avoid any legal repercussions.

​Source: INZ website