The journey of Thi Lam Sa Van, a Vietnamese migrant worker, is a stark reminder of the challenges and risks faced by those seeking better opportunities abroad. Van's story, marked by a significant financial investment and a series of unfulfilled promises, sheds light on the vulnerabilities of migrant workers in New Zealand, particularly in the context of potential NZ visa scams.
The Initial Promise Van’s pursuit of a better life led her to take a substantial financial risk. She secured a $35,000 loan to obtain a job agreement with Voda Limited, a New Zealand company. The agreement promised a full-time construction job with a competitive hourly wage, a prospect that seemed worth the investment. Unmet Expectations Upon arrival, Van quickly discovered that her expectations would not be met. The promised work hours and pay were significantly less than what was outlined in the agreement. This shortfall placed her in a precarious financial situation, unable to meet her obligations and support her family back in Vietnam. Mounting Financial Pressure With inadequate income from her job, Van was forced to take out additional loans from high-interest lenders to extend her initial bank loan. These loans came with severe terms, and failing to meet the monthly payments threatened her family’s security back home, as their home was collateral for the loans. The Fight for Stability Despite the setbacks, Van was granted a New Zealand Work Visa, allowing her to seek employment more broadly. However, finding a stable job has been an ongoing struggle, leaving her in a state of financial instability as the expiration date of her visa approaches. This situation has raised concerns about potential NZ visa scams that exploit vulnerable migrants. Legal and Ethical Concerns The situation has drawn attention to Voda Limited and their employment practices. A complaint filed with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has prompted an investigation into the company. This case highlights the importance of stringent oversight and regulation to protect migrant workers from exploitation and prevent visa scams. The Broader Implications Van’s story is not an isolated incident but rather indicative of a broader issue affecting many migrant workers in New Zealand and around the world. It underscores the need for robust legal frameworks and support systems to ensure that migrant workers are treated fairly and ethically. Conclusion Thi Lam Sa Van’s experience is a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of migrant workers who leave their home countries in search of better opportunities. It also serves as a call to action for policymakers, employers, and society to address and rectify the systemic issues that lead to such exploitation. By doing so, we can create a more just and equitable environment for all workers, regardless of their origin. Source: This article
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Recent changes to New Zealand's immigration policies have significant implications for ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 workers and their families. Here is a summary of the key points and answers to some common questions.
Impact on Current AEWV Holders: Question: AEWV applicants for ANZSCO Level 4 or 5 occupations can no longer support their dependents. How does this affect those already in New Zealand who haven't applied for family visas? Answer: The policy change, effective from 26 June 2024, affects all current and future AEWV holders who had not applied to bring their partners and dependent children to New Zealand via a supported visa pathway before the change. This means even those already in New Zealand with an AEWV must comply with the new rules if they haven't yet applied for their family's visas. Options for Family Reunification: Question: Can impacted family members still come to New Zealand to reunite with their partners? Answer: Yes, but they must qualify for a visa in their own right. Partners and dependent children of AEWV holders working in ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5 roles can also apply for a short-term visitor visa to visit their partner or parent in New Zealand during the duration of their AEWV. Switching Between Visa Types: Question: If someone held a conditional/open Work visa (based on partnership) supported by an AEWV holder on 26 June 2024, can they switch to a different visa, like a Fee-Paying Student Visa, and later return to a relationship-based visa supported by the AEWV holder? Answer: Yes, they can. The partner who held a relationship-based visa on 26 June can switch to another visa, such as a student visa, and later revert to a partner of a worker work visa, provided the AEWV holder (supporting partner) hasn't reached their maximum continuous stay. Additional Considerations: Further clarifications are being sought from Immigration New Zealand on whether dependent children can apply for visas based on the parent with a Partner of a Worker Work Visa and the specific income requirements for supporting dependent children. Updates on these questions will be provided once available. Conclusion: The recent changes to ANZSCO Level 4 and 5 dependent visa rules present new challenges for many families. Understanding these changes and the options available for family reunification is crucial for those affected. As the situation evolves, staying informed about policy updates and seeking appropriate visa pathways will help ensure compliance and facilitate family unity in New Zealand. Further clarifications from Immigration New Zealand are expected soon, which will provide additional guidance on these matters. |
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January 2025
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