How to submit films and video games for classification

In order to obtain a classification you need to submit your film or video game to the Film and Video Labelling Body (FVLB). To submit your film for rating or classification, please use the online submission facility.

For more information about classification, rating, and labelling fees read the Fees Information Sheet. Note that up to 75% of the fee for examination by the Classification Office can be waived if paying the full fee would be "unfair or unduly burdensome".

When deciding whether to grant a fee waiver, the Classification Office will consider: how wide the distribution of the film or video game is, any commercial gains likely to be derived from its distribution, and other relevant matters.

Remember to submit a good quality copy of the film or video game and include a copy of any advertising material associated with the film or video game (for example, posters or slicks).

How the Film and Video Labelling Body deals with submissions

If the film or video game has already been classified in New Zealand, the FVLB will issue copies of the label assigned to it.

If the film or video game has not previously been classified, the FVLB will do one of the following:

Assign an unrestricted rating

If the publication has been classified as unrestricted in Australia (G, PG or M) or the UK (U, PG, 12 or 12A), the FVLB will assign an equivalent unrestricted rating (G, PG or M) and issue New Zealand labels.

If the publication hasn't been rated overseas, the FVLB will examine it. If it does not contain restricted material, the FVLB will assign a rating (G, PG or M) and issue labels. Please note that while the FVLB may issue unrestricted labels for games, these are not required by law.

Forward the publication to the Classification Office

If the publication has been classified as restricted in Australia (MA15+, R18+ or X18+) or the UK (15, 18, or R18), the FVLB will forward your submission to the Classification Office to be examined and classified before labels are issued. The FVLB will act as your agent in dealings with the Classification Office.

If the publication hasn't been rated overseas, the FVLB will examine it. If it contains restricted material, the FVLB will forward your submission to the Classification Office to be examined and classified.

Exemptions from classification and labelling

Generally speaking, films and restricted video games must have a New Zealand classification label before they are supplied or exhibited to the public. There are a few exceptions to this rule: some types of films and video games are exempt from labelling requirements. Find out more about exemptions here.