Mankeel moved to NZ from India in January 2024, followed by his wife and son later that year. Mankeel did that; his and Geetha’s visas were approved in June, while Aidhan’s application for a new visitor visa was declined in July. “His status is now unlawful because he doesn’t have any valid visa ... so there’s a liability of deportation,” Mankeel said. A second petition is calling on the House of Representatives to abolish the Acceptable Standard of Health immigration requirements. “We understand the challenges faced by Mr Mankeel and his family; however, immigration health requirements are very specific and can only be waived through ministerial intervention.

Source: New Zealand Herald December 23, 2025 21:10 UTC