Last month we briefly covered: Understanding migrant exploitation in New Zealand — and what you can do if it happens to you or someone you know.
What does exploitation look like?
This month we cover the issue in much more detail.
Speaking up and getting help
Migrant exploitation should be reported. Doing so can help protect the worker involved and may prevent the same situation happening to others.
Reports can be made to Employment New Zealand, either online or by calling 0800 200 088. Interpreters are available, so workers can speak in their preferred language if needed.
A visa designed to protect workers
If a migrant worker holds an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and needs to leave their job because of exploitation, they may be able to apply for a Migrant Exploitation Protection Visa.
This visa allows workers to leave an exploitative employer quickly and stay legally in New Zealand while they look for a new job. It is usually valid for up to six months, or until the expiry of the worker’s current visa—whichever comes first.
To apply, workers must first report the exploitation to Employment New Zealand. If the situation is confirmed, they will receive a letter that can be used to apply for the protection visa through Immigration New Zealand.
Support while finding a new path
Leaving a job due to exploitation can create financial stress, and the Migrant Exploitation Protection Visa does not automatically provide financial support. However, there may still be options.
Some workers seek assistance from their embassy, community groups, or family networks. In certain circumstances, migrants may also be able to apply for an Emergency Benefit through Work and Income. Information about this support is available online or by calling Work and Income on 0800 559 009, where interpreters can also be arranged if needed.
A new law protecting workers’ wages
Recent law changes also strengthen protections for workers. It has become a criminal offence for employers to intentionally withhold wages or deliberately fail to pay workers what they are legally owed, unless they have a valid reason.
This includes pay agreed to in employment agreements, as well as pay required under laws such as the Minimum Wage Act and the Holidays Act.
It also means that when someone leaves or resigns from a job, they are entitled to receive their final pay.
Knowing your rights matters
No one should feel trapped in an unsafe or unfair workplace. Understanding your rights and knowing where to seek advice can help workers take steps toward a safer and fairer working environment.
If you’re unsure about your situation—or concerned about someone else’s—it can help to talk to someone who understands the system and can guide you through your options.
Need more tips? Contact CAB for free, confidential info and advice on freephone 0800 367 222, online at cab.org.nz (send a message or speak with a volunteer on live chat), or visit one of our eight CAB locations around the North Shore & Rodney: cab.org.nz/find-a-cab/.
CAB Helensville Location: Office Hours: Mon–Fri : 10am–1pm, Sat: 10am-Noon. JPs are available on these days.
