Recently, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has made changes to its processing procedures for employer accreditation and job checks due to incidents of migrant exploitation.

Earlier, businesses with less than 24 months of history were being approved with minimal documentation. But the INZ is now conducting thorough assessments and issuing multiple Request for Information (RFI) to ensure businesses meet all the necessary requirements.

Even if a business is profitable, INZ is interested in knowing how many migrant workers it intends to recruit to ensure that it has the necessary financial resources to meet their needs.

Lately, the approval process for job checks has slowed down significantly since August 13. Earlier, job checks were approved within seven to 10 working days without any inquiries. But the INZ has begun conducting interviews with employers and issuing RFI even for single job token applications.

In some cases, the INZ has requested full organisational charts, business history, profit and loss statements, PAYE records, and lease agreements. Many job check applications lodged since August 13 are currently on hold with no progress.

This is a clear indication that the INZ is changing its procedures on how job checks were processed earlier. It will not be easy for businesses to hire migrant workers without providing proper justifications.

We have been consistently receiving approvals for Accredited Employer Work Visa. However, there have been reports of INZ randomly interviewing applicants to confirm their awareness of the job they are being hired for, and any monetary terms involved in securing the job offer.

I believe that the recent increase in strictness and tightening of regulations was necessary, and it will serve as a wake-up call for employers who engage in fraudulent activities. Additionally, it is a valuable lesson for those who have fallen victim to such schemes.

Many who have been exploited are now searching for food, shelter, and employment. Unfortunately, there are not enough legitimate job opportunities that offer pay equal to the national median wage rate, leaving victims with few options.

For the employer accreditation scheme to be a success, employers must abide by the conduct and fulfil their obligations as set by the INZ. Failure to do so may result in the loss of their accreditations during renewal.

Regular inspections by MBIE would have a significant impact and play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth running of this system.

 

(The writer is Director and Principal Advisor at Kiwiana Immigration & Education–https://www.kiwianaimmigration.online; advisers@kiwianaimmigration.co.nz;
Address: 1 Pollen Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021; Phone + 64-27-7292-637)