Because of the aggressive measures implemented by the New Zealand government to combat visa fraud, 200 businesses are no longer allowed to hire immigrants.
In response to concerns expressed in June of last year about the misuse of work visas, Immigration New Zealand has stepped up its investigation. It has revoked or suspended the licences of firms that have violated the law.
About 136 employers have had their accreditation removed, and 51 more are at risk of having their status suspended while Immigration New Zealand continues to investigate. The investigations are a result of allegations that migrant labourers are living in claustrophobic and unhygienic conditions, paying large amounts of money for work permits, and then having few prospects for employment.
When hiring migrant labour, employers in New Zealand are required to comply with strict immigration and employment regulations. The Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment places a strong emphasis on treating all employees equally, irrespective of their citizenship or place of residence.
Employers are required to give foreign workers the same benefits as native New Zealanders, such as holidays, breaks, and compensation. Employers who don't follow the rules risk having their status designated as non-compliant and losing their ability to support visa applications for a predetermined amount of time.
Strict enforcement procedures implemented by the Ministry are intended to guard against maltreatment of migrants and guarantee equitable employment practices for all.
Employees who are migrants and have been impacted by misbehaviour on the part of their employer are nonetheless qualified to work. They cannot, however, help with visa applications or pursue employment status while the penalty is in effect.
New Zealand is still dedicated to protecting the rights of all workers who are employed there and maintaining the integrity of its immigration laws. The government's efforts to preserve an open and honest job market for citizens and immigrants alike are demonstrated by the campaign against visa fraud.
By firmly pursuing businesses engaged in visa fraud, New Zealand makes it quite evident that the mistreatment of foreign labourers will not be accepted. The rights and dignity of every person employed within the nation's boundaries are safeguarded by the strict implementation of immigration and employment regulations.
If found guilty of visa fraud, employers risk having their accreditation revoked or suspended, which would prevent them from supporting visa applications for a predetermined amount of time.
All employers in New Zealand that hire migrant workers are subject to the crackdown on visa fraud, even if no specific industry or sectors are mentioned.
Organisations like the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment or legal counsel can provide aid to migrants who feel their employers have infringed their rights.