Immigration NZ defends visa cancellation for transgender woman at Santiago gate

Immigration New Zealand has defended its decision to cancel a transgender woman’s visitor visa and deny her boarding on a flight from Santiago, citing concerns about her travel plans and financial evidence. The woman, identified as Pereira, was stopped during a layover in Chile after being flagged for last-minute ticket purchases and her online profile. Officials said she declined to provide proof of sufficient funds and gave incomplete details about her employment and visit. Pereira, who works as an adult content creator in Brazil, said the trip was personal to visit her uncle and she had adequate resources. Immigration NZ stated the decision was reviewed by a senior officer and made on a case-by-case basis, acknowledging the outcome was disappointing but stressed the decision was not based on prejudice.