Key Points
- New Zealand introduced an Immigration Infringement Scheme for low-level violations.
- Applies to both accredited and non-accredited employers.
- Penalties include fines, loss of accreditation, and stand-down periods.
- More serious violations may lead to criminal charges.
Overview
New Zealand has launched the New Zealand Immigration Infringement Scheme as part of its Worker Protection (Migrant and Other Employees) Act, expanding enforcement options against employers who commit lower-level immigration violations. The scheme aims to deter exploitation, strengthen compliance, and improve protections for migrant workers.
The policy applies to both accredited and non-accredited employers. Infringements include employing individuals who are not authorized to work under the Immigration Act, breaching visa conditions tied to employment, and failing to provide requested documents within ten working days.
Penalties for violations include fines of NZD $1,000 for individuals or NZD $3,000 for companies. Employers may also face temporary suspension of Accredited Employer or Recognized Seasonal Employer status, as well as stand-down periods of up to 12 months from sponsoring migrant workers. For more serious offenses, authorities retain the ability to pursue criminal charges.
By creating a scalable enforcement tool, New Zealand’s immigration authorities can respond more proportionately to violations, ensuring compliance while reserving criminal prosecution for severe cases. For related updates, see Corporate Immigration Partners’ New Zealand insights.
Looking Ahead
Employers in New Zealand should review compliance frameworks to ensure adherence to visa conditions and record-keeping obligations. Businesses with accredited status must be especially mindful, as infringements could affect their ability to sponsor migrant workers. Ongoing monitoring of enforcement actions will help companies understand the practical application of the scheme.
