Before you kick back and start enjoying your new life in Christchurch, there are a few things you need to sort out first. Trust us, you don’t want any surprises popping up later, messing with your plans. 

The big one? Making sure your immigration stuff is all squared away.

If you haven’t found a legal pro to handle it yet, no stress. Our team has done the homework for you and rounded up some of the best immigration lawyers in the city. 

Keep reading to see who made the list.

1. Cavell Leitch

Address: Level 3, BNZ Centre, 111 Cashel Mall

Phone: +64 3 379 9940
Business hours:

• Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
• Saturday to Sunday: Closed

Website

Cavell Leitch’s service is a reliable choice for anyone dealing with New Zealand immigration. They handle everything from visa applications and citizenship cases to employer compliance and accredited status.

We like how they tailor their advice to each client, which is especially helpful for unique or urgent cases.

Clients often highlight the team’s professionalism and clear communication. They stay up-to-date with changing immigration laws, so clients always know what to expect.

We heard many people mentioning how the firm takes care of the complicated paperwork and processes, which saves time and reduces stress. 

Their ability to communicate in English, Hindi, and Urdu also makes it easier for a wide range of clients to work with them. 

They seem particularly strong at handling urgent cases, like partner visas or fast-tracked citizenship applications. There are a lot of positive results and a smoother process than expected.

That said, their fees are on the higher side, which could be a concern for smaller clients or individuals. 

They know what they are supposed to do, and are very professional

“I would like to express my gratitude to Vienna Tse and Cavell Leitch for helping me and my wife get an AEWV. They gave easy and very simple steps on how to complete all the requirements needed for the visa. Also, Vienna is very responsive whenever we have concerns with the particular requirements, especially for partner worker visas. They know what they are supposed to do, are very professional, and highly recommended.”

Gerald Gamos, Google review

The whole application process was very smooth

“Cavell Leitch led my family through Accredited Employer Working Visas. We found their team very knowledgeable and professional, with a very positive attitude. Our visas were obtained without any problems or surprises; the whole application process was very smooth, thanks mostly to Shoosh. Communication between us was easy and efficient, having all our queries responded to very quickly. We would highly recommend them for Visa and Citizenship applications.”

Lazar Popovic, Google review

2. MC Legal

Phone: ​​+64 21 178 1377
Business hours:

• Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
• Saturday to Sunday: Closed

Website

Our team explored MC Legal, led by Michelle Chen, and we were impressed by the consistent positive feedback from clients.

Michelle is very professional and hands-on, helping both employers and individuals with immigration issues. Her work covers employer accreditation, temporary and resident visas, appeals, and more. 

She makes the immigration process much easier to understand. Clients often mentioned that she explains options clearly, points out any risks, and guides you through each step.

She pays a lot of attention to detail, preparing files and writing precise letters. Many people said this gave them confidence that everything was under control.

Clients also highlighted her efficiency. Visas were often approved faster than expected, thanks to her careful preparation. She is transparent about her fees, so there are no surprises.

On the flip side, there are a few limits. She doesn’t seem to have a dedicated office for walk-in visits. Meetings need to be scheduled and held at an agreed location. It’s not a major drawback, but it might be inconvenient for those who prefer drop-in consultations. 

Also, because Michelle handles each case personally, availability can be limited.

For the excellent service she provides, she asks for fair fees

“I was introduced to Michelle (MC Legal) about 7 months ago after a very long, nerve-wracking and disappointing visa application. From the initial assessment meeting, I could sense the professional and hands-on attitude Michelle was leading, and ever since, the visa process has been so smooth and coherent. Michelle is attentive and professional, providing clear and concise explanations to any query that may arise. For the excellent service she provides, she asks for fair fees and will communicate them with you before every process, so you’re not surprised! Highly recommended!” 

Lior Balachness, Google review

She is an excellent, honest, and responsible immigration lawyer!

“Michelle is a really good and professional Immigration lawyer. She assisted us in contacting the New Zealand Immigration Office to address an extremely difficult situation we had with our visas last year. What I remember very clearly is that once, in response to an inquiry from the NZ Immigration, Michelle wrote a 6-page letter for me to them, and each response was precise and fully justified. Finally, I got my Visa. Now we feel grateful that she is handling the visas for our whole family. In short, she is an excellent, honest, and responsible immigration lawyer!”

Yoyo, Google review

3. The Immigration Law Firm

Address: 14 Acheron Drive, Unit 15

Phone: +64 3 377 1922
Business hours:

• Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
• Saturday to Sunday: Closed

Website

When we found out that The Immigration Law Firm specialises in New Zealand immigration, we had to take a deeper look. 

They handle a wide range of cases. They cover residence visas, as well as the newly expanded “Green List” roles for the work-to-residence pathway. They also do temporary visas, employer accreditation, appeals, and more.

One thing that stood out to us immediately was their honesty. They won’t try to push clients into pursuing unrealistic options.

The initial consultation is also of good value. They explore all possible options, answer detailed questions, and provide a written quote and timeline. 

From our perspective, this is a huge advantage for anyone looking to understand their chances and plan next steps effectively. It allows you to weigh the cost against the strategy before committing to anything.

Their fees are a bit high, though, which could be tough for some people. And because they are thorough, some steps can take time. But most of us agreed that this is actually a good thing for complex cases. 

A pleasure to deal with & they got us a successful result!

“EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE – Paulo & Elena are very personable & professional. They are a pleasure to deal with & they got us a successful result! My partner is Russian & I am a Kiwi in a same sex relationship. We had previously applied in Australia & had the visa refused, so this was our last shot at being able to be together, and The Immigration Law Firm helped us. I’d highly recommend them – thank you Paulo & Elena”

Merryn Skipper, Google review

Has empathy for the client’s case, and is available to clarify doubts

“Very professional, has empathy for the client’s case, and is available to clarify doubts. Highly recommend this office and especially Paulo Kundig’s work.”

Julie Albengrin, Google review

4. Young Hunter Lawyers

Address: Young Hunter House 2/134 Victoria Street, Christchurch Central City

Phone: +64 3 379 3880
Business hours:

• Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
• Saturday to Sunday: Closed

Website

Young Hunter Lawyers take a team-based approach. This means clients are involved in every step. The lawyers discuss all possible options (even ones that aren’t obvious) before deciding the best way forward, which we found very transparent and reassuring.

They handle a wide range of immigration issues. They can handle employer accreditation, work visas, partnership-based applications, and more. 

For anyone with a complicated case, they may be a great option. They’ve represented clients in front of the Department of Immigration, the Immigration and Protection Tribunal, and the courts. 

Many people have praised some of their lawyers for being very knowledgeable and hands-on. One client got their residency in just three and a half months, thanks to Christine’s careful assessment of their work experience and qualifications. 

Another client was in a very difficult situation, and Simon helped achieve an outcome they didn’t even think was possible.

That said, we heard from someone who had a not-so-good experience with their initial communication. The person said they paid a retainer and then were told their case was high-risk, with follow-up taking time. 

Simon got us a very positive outcome

“Simon Graham from Young Hunter saved me. I had to change my lawyer 2 days before we had to submit our papers to the court and spent thousands of dollars with my previous lawyer who was incompetent and left me panicking 2 days before the deadline of submission. I panicked and looked for a law firm on Google, and luckily I found Simon, who accepted me even when we’re time-constrained. His communication is amazing. It was very clear what he could do and what it was going to cost, and in the end, Simon got us a very positive outcome where the other lawyer told us to take it on the chin. Thanks again, Simon and Young Hunter.”

Roxy Perez, Google review

Very professional & top of this subject with a wealth of knowledge & experience

“I would say one of the best Immigration lawyers I met here in NZ until getting my residency. They are very professional & top of this subject with a wealth of knowledge & experience. I met a couple of Immigration experts, but none of them did a proper eligibility assessment to apply under SMC. Finally, I met Christine at Young Hunter and she did a great job assessing my current job role, qualifications and previous work experience and guided me throughout the whole process. So, I’m happy to say within 3 & half months I got my residency. Thank you, Christine and Young Hunter team, for your good work and great cooperation over the last few months. Finally, I’m a New Zealand Resident now!”

Lalith Wickramanayake, Google review

5. Saunders & Co Lawyers

Address: 131 Victoria Street, Christchurch Central City

Phone: +64 3 379 7690
Business hours:

• Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
• Saturday to Sunday: Closed

Website

Saunder & Co. Lawyers has a good balance in their team. Their senior lawyers bring years of experience and deep knowledge of the law, while the younger ones add fresh ideas and energy.

We think this mix works well because immigration law is both technical and personal. You need accuracy with paperwork, but also support for clients who are often under stress.

Their services are very personalised. Clients often mentioned lawyers like Vanessa Cha and Jen Bensley, who took the time to really understand their situation.

They helped one client with both a visitor visa and a student visa for their daughter, carefully preparing the applications so nothing was missed.

We also liked their range of services. While their immigration team is highly specialised, they’re not a boutique firm limited to one area of law. 

If a client’s cause overlaps with other legal matters—say, employment law when a work visa is tied to a specific job—they can handle it all under one roof.

That said, we did notice a couple of drawbacks. Someone mentioned that they left both a voicemail and a message with reception, but never received a call back. This could mean that during busy times, their responsiveness slips. 

They handled my case with care and attention

“I had an exceptional experience with Saunders and Co. Lawyers. From the moment I reached out for a consultation, the team demonstrated professionalism and a deep understanding of immigration law. Vanessa was particularly impressive, providing clear and concise guidance throughout the entire process. They handled my case with care and attention, ensuring every detail was managed efficiently. Their responsiveness and support were outstanding. I highly recommend Saunders and co to anyone in need of the best legal assistance with immigration matters.”

Aparjot Singh, Google review

Have made the best decision by choosing Saunders & Co for all my Visa work

“I have made the best decision by choosing Saunders & Co for all my Visa work. They are the best in and one of the top lawyers who will make sure to handle all your visa process smoothly. Vanessa Cha was my immigration Lawyer, and she did her job very well, and I have recommended Saunders to my friends as well. The best choice. Thumbs up.”

Shivam Chhibber, Google review