The New Zealand Government has announced significant changes to the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa (MEPV) to further support migrant workers and uphold the integrity of the immigration system.
Key Changes Effective 31 October 2024
- No Second MEPV Applications:
Migrants will no longer be able to apply for a second MEPV. Any applications submitted on or after 31 October 2024 will be declined.
Migrants who have made a credible report of exploitation can still apply for an initial MEPV for up to six months or until their current visa expires, whichever is shorter. This allows them to leave exploitative workplaces while remaining lawfully in New Zealand as they seek new employment.
- Limited Transition Period:
Migrants holding an initial MEPV that expires on or before 30 November 2024 can apply for a second MEPV only until 30 October 2024.
- Clarified Definitions of Exploitation:
- Lawful employment terminations, redundancies, or unpaid wages due to company liquidation are not considered exploitation.
- Exploitation must now be directly linked to a genuine employment relationship to meet the criteria.
Why These Changes Matter
The revised MEPV rules aim to encourage the reporting of migrant exploitation and provide a structured pathway for migrants to leave abusive work environments without compromising their lawful status. At the same time, these updates are designed to maintain the robustness and fairness of New Zealand’s immigration framework.
Reporting Migrant Exploitation
Migrants experiencing workplace exploitation are encouraged to report their concerns through Employment New Zealand’s online form.
For more detailed information, visit the below link:
These changes demonstrate the Government’s commitment to safeguarding migrant workers while promoting transparency and accountability in employment practices. For expert guidance on navigating your visa options, contact VisaSector today!