New Zealand has implemented new changes to the Migrant Exploitation Protection (MEVP) work visa. They will start working as early as October 31, 2024. Find out what's about to change for expats

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The New Zealand government is actively fighting the problem of migrant exploitation. That is why the state leadership has strengthened a number of rules for obtaining a work visa in the country.

Although New Zealand is internationally recognized as a safe, fair and highly attractive place to work, it is still not immune to migrant exploitation.

What will change for expats on October 31, 2024? We tell.

What is a MEPV Permit?

In 2021, the New Zealand Labor government developed a six-month MEPV permit, which allows migrants to look for a new job with the option of extending their visa if they have not been able to find work within six months. This is a special permit that helps expats quickly leave a situation of exploitation while remaining in New Zealand legally. However, the document's current criteria are too broad and risk increasing the time migrants remain vulnerable.

The New Zealand government has decided to tighten the rules for the Migrant Exploitation Protection (MEVP) work visa from October 31, because even under current conditions it is difficult to combat the problem of migrant exploitation.

What will change in the MEPV procedure from October 31, 2024?

The legislation approved on October 31 aims to balance the parameters for issuing MEPVs to ensure that they give migrants the opportunity to leave exploitative work.

From October 31, the option to apply for a second protection visa for an additional six months will no longer be eligible. However, the visa will remain valid for six months.

Those whose initial MEPV ends on 30 November 2024 will have until 30 October to apply for a second MEVP. Applications submitted on or after October 31st will be rejected.

This policy guarantees migrants enough time to find further work or leave the country.

To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

What other criteria for obtaining a work visa has been introduced in New Zealand?

In addition to the change in the MEPV procedure, New Zealand introduced English language proficiency requirements and a minimum skill or experience threshold for the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). All these factors reflect the government's commitment to reduce the exploitation of migrants.

Also, according to the new rules, exploitation must be related to "genuine labor relations".

MEPV will also exclude situations such as statutory layoffs, layoffs, and failure to pay final wages due to liquidation, unless they occur in conjunction with other exploitative conduct or failure to comply with legal procedures.

We will remind you! We previously talked about the changes in New Zealand's migration policy, which came into effect on October 1, 2024.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to consult a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with a legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.

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