A new visa category for those experiencing exploitation at work.
The Government has announced the creation of a new work visa to help those who may have to leave employment, while their employer is being investigated for potential exploitation. This new visa is called the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa (MEPV).
What is the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa?
The main purpose of this visa is to allow exploited migrants to have peace of mind that they are in New Zealand lawfully while their employer is being investigated. The visa also allows them to take up any other employment for any other employer, for up to 6 months. The lodgement requirements will be minimal, waiving the need to provide police certificate, medicals, and there is no application fee.
What is required for an MEPV?
The process involves making a formal declaration which must be assessed and results in a “Report of Exploitation Assessment Letter”. The letter is required in order to apply for the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa.
Although family cannot be included in the application for this visa, they may apply in their own right for a visa based on your status and their relationship with you. The requirements will also be minimal, as they are for the principal applicant.
Contact us if you believe you may be experiencing exploitation at work
