Around 200 New Zealand employers have lost their hiring privileges as Immigration New Zealand cracks down on potential work visa abuse, with an additional 167 under investigation since concerns were raised in June. Of those investigated, 136 lost accreditation, and 51 face suspensions. The issues center on migrant workers from India, China, and Bangladesh, who paid hefty sums for work visas and ended up in cramped living conditions.
Employers looking to hire from overseas must ensure no New Zealanders can fill the role and check the visa permits work in the country. New Zealand provides options like the Accredited Employer Work Visa, allowing hiring for up to five years. Employers must follow employment and immigration laws, with exemptions for certain roles.
They must treat migrants the same as local workers regarding conditions, agreements, breaks, pay, holidays, and safety. Violating rules can lead to being listed as a rule-breaking employer, impacting visa support for a specified period, part of efforts to prevent mistreatment of migrants.
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