World Immigration News

Nurse's autistic son could face deportation after Immigration NZ rejects visa

Release Date: 2025-12-26
Media: RNZ
Summary: A nurse working in Nelson, New Zealand, says he is living in fear as he tries to prevent the deportation of his five-year-old autistic son. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has ruled that the child, Aidhan Nithin, does not meet health requirements for a visa, determining that he is likely to place significant costs or demands on the country’s health and education systems.

The boy’s father, Nithin Mankeel, moved from India to New Zealand in January 2024 to work as an elder care nurse, with his wife later employed as a senior healthcare assistant. His occupation appears on Tier 1 of INZ’s Green List, allowing him to apply directly for residence with family members as secondary applicants. During the process, Aidhan was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and global developmental delay. Despite medical reports showing improvement, INZ declined a medical waiver.

After being advised to remove Aidhan from the original application, Mankeel and his wife were granted residence, but Aidhan’s subsequent visitor visa application was rejected. As a result, the child currently has no valid visa and faces the risk of deportation. Appeals on humanitarian grounds were unsuccessful, including requests for ministerial intervention.

The family has now submitted a discretionary request under Section 61 of the Immigration Act, which could restore Aidhan’s lawful status. INZ has said it will not take enforcement action while that request is under review.

The case has sparked strong community support, including petitions, a rally, and backing from a local member of parliament, who described the situation as deeply unfair given the family’s contribution to the healthcare sector. INZ maintains that health requirements must be applied consistently to protect the sustainability of New Zealand’s health and education systems, even in compassionate cases.

Mankeel says the prospect of family separation is devastating, but he continues to fight the decision with the support of colleagues, neighbors, and the wider community.
Tags: New Zealand

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