We are required by law to verify your identity, address, and source of funds before we can act.
What happens at this step
Anti-money-laundering legislation requires every NZ law firm to verify the identity of clients before acting. For property transactions there is also a source-of-funds component. The process is quick if you have standard documents, slower if your funds are coming from less standard sources.
What NZ Legal does
We send you our AML pack, review your documents, run electronic verification, and document the file. Most clients clear AML in 24 to 48 hours. We tell you immediately if there is any gap and what is needed to fix it.
What you do
Send us a copy of your passport or NZ driver licence, a recent utility bill or bank statement showing your address, and a one-line description of where the deposit and balance are coming from. If KiwiSaver is in play, send your provider name. If a parent or other person is gifting funds, mention that.
Common pitfalls
- Sending old or expired ID. NZ banks and lawyers want current documents.
- Underestimating source-of-funds documentation when funds are coming from offshore. Start early on this.
- Forgetting to disclose a gift from family. Disclosed gifts are usually fine. Undisclosed ones cause problems later.
