Legal representation, not just paperwork
As a Barrister & Solicitor, Y. Lucas represents your interests in court and the Immigration Tribunal — something a licensed adviser cannot do. Visas, appeals, employment disputes, citizenship.
In New Zealand, only a Barrister & Solicitor can represent you in court, the Immigration and Protection Tribunal, and the Employment Relations Authority. A licensed adviser cannot do this.
If your case is complex, you've received a declined decision, or your employer is exploiting you — a lawyer is the only option for full legal protection.
From first contact to resolution
We assess your situation and identify options. Zoom available.
Right pathway, documents needed, realistic timeframes.
Full document package prepared and submitted.
INZ responses, tribunal and court if needed.
Every visa category, residency, citizenship, appeals and full court representation.
AEWV, Essential Skills, Specific Purpose. Employer accreditation for both workers and businesses.
ImmigrationStudent Visa, Pathway Student Visa, post-study work rights. Guidance on institutions and rights after study.
EducationSkilled Migrant, Residence from Work, Family, Parent. Full document preparation and strategy.
ResidencyEligibility assessment, application preparation, end-to-end support to NZ passport.
CitizenshipChallenging declined decisions at IPT and High Court. Only a Barrister & Solicitor can represent you here.
Court · IPTDeportation defence, removal of banning orders, unlawful status. Urgent assistance available.
UrgentInvestor, Entrepreneur, Global Impact visas. Employer accreditation for companies.
BusinessSpecialist assistance for Ukrainian nationals. Family connections in NZ or Australia. Urgent processing.
UkraineERA disputes, MBIE mediation, discrimination protection, exploitation of migrant workers. All workers in NZ.
ERA · MBIEBarrister & Solicitor · Justice of the Peace · Citizens Advice Bureau. Auckland and Christchurch.
Barrister & Solicitor, NZ Law Society. Director of Antaris Limited. Admitted Auckland High Court 2011.
Immigration and employment law in New Zealand — common questions answered.
A Barrister & Solicitor can represent you in court, the Immigration and Protection Tribunal and the Employment Relations Authority. A Licensed Immigration Adviser can only prepare and file visa applications — they cannot appear in court or conduct appeals.
Yes. Most declined residence applications can be appealed to the Immigration and Protection Tribunal within 42 days. Missing this deadline means losing the right to appeal. Only a Barrister & Solicitor can represent you at the hearing.
Yes. The Employment Relations Act 2000 protects all workers in New Zealand regardless of immigration status. You have the same rights as a NZ citizen — minimum wage, annual leave, sick leave and protection from unjustified dismissal.
Yes. Threatening a worker with deportation or visa cancellation in retaliation for raising a complaint is a criminal offence under the Immigration Act 2009 and Employment Relations Act 2000. Contact a lawyer immediately.
MBIE provides free employment mediation as an alternative to ERA proceedings. It is confidential and resolves most employment disputes without going to tribunal. A lawyer representing you at mediation significantly improves your outcome.
Zoom consultations are NZD 200 per hour. Initial consultations available at a fixed fee. Contact us via WhatsApp or email to discuss your situation and book a time.
Zoom consultations NZD 200/hr. Auckland and Christchurch offices. English and Russian.