Don’t Get Tricked: Outsmart Immigration Scams

Moving to New Zealand? How exciting! Things to see and new people to meet, stunning landscapes, a high quality of life and a decent work environment. But like all pleasant things there will be unpleasant things.  Where there is an opportunity, there is also an opportunity for scammers. Immigration scams and visa fraud are real threats and falling for one can cost you not just money and time, but potentially a chance at building a new life in Aotearoa.

Protect Yourself: Recognizing the Most Common Visa Scams

1. Pay for Job Schemes:

If an employer or recruiter asks you to pay for a job whether they call it a placement fee, processing charge or any other fancy term..run! This is illegal in New Zealand. Employers cannot charge you for employment and nor can third-party agents.  

 What to do instead:  

-If you are going through a recruitment agency, make sure their fees are reasonable and fully transparent.  

-Report any employer charging a fee for a job.  

 2. Guaranteed Visa Priority Lies

Some shady advisers claim they have connections in Immigration New Zealand (INZ) to speed up your application process. This is another one of their lies. INZ processes applications based on merits only and not based on connections.  

 What to do instead:  

-Be well informed. Apply through licensed immigration advisers (LIAs) or certified NZ lawyers only.  

-Keep an eye on the processing times through the official INZ website.  

3. Just Lie on Your Application  

If an agent tells you to falsify documents or lie about your qualifications to get what is needed, they’re committing fraud and so are you. Not only is it morally wrong but if you are caught it means rejected applications, deportation or even bans from future visas.  

 What to do instead:  

-Always provide truthful information.  

-If an adviser suggests fraud, report them immediately.  

 4. You Don’t Have the Same Rights as Kiwis  

This is false. All workers in NZ have the same minimum rights such as paid leave, safe working conditions, fair pay. If an employer says otherwise, they are breaking the law.  

 What to do instead:  

- Know your rights (check Employment New Zealand’s website).  

- Walk away from exploitative employers, report if possible.  

 5. Visa + Job + Accommodation Package Deals 

While some industries (like farming) provide housing, though most jobs don’t. Scammers may overcharge for subpar housing or disappear after taking your money.  

 What to do instead:  

- Check out for rental prices in the area, do research. (Tenancy Services NZ has guides).  

- Speak directly with the employer, avoid using middlemen.  

 6. Guaranteed Residence Promises  

Residencies can never be guaranteed, it completely depends on applicants skills, qualifications and NZ’s immigration policies. If someone says otherwise, it is definitely false.  

 What to do instead:  

-Check official residency pathways on INZ’s website.  

-Beware of too-good-to-be-true offers as they actually might be.

 7. Fake INZ Emails & Websites

 Scammers create fake INZ sites, make it look very authentic and send emails to steal money or personal information.  

 What to do instead:  

-Only trust govt websites and sources such as .immigration.govt.nz or .mbie.govt.nz emails/websites.  

-Never pay visa fees to a personal bank account - INZ only accepts card payments.  

How to Protect Yourself  

• Research is a must - Check your employer’s credentials and talk to others who have migrated to New Zealand.

• Use official channels - Only use INZ’s website and official contact points.

• Be cautious with accommodation - Verify with photos and check rent prices online.

• Know your rights - Visit the Employment New Zealand website and learn about your rights.

• Verify visas -  Use the Visa Verification Service to confirm if your visa is real.

• Report suspicious activity - Contact local police or use NZ’s “Own Your Online” cyber safety portal.

Final Thoughts: It’s Your Journey Own It, Safely

New Zealand, the land of the long white cloud, is an incredible place, not only to live but even to travel, but scammers prey on this dream. If an offer seems to be out of this world, it probably is. Always double-check, ask questions and rely on only official sources and constantly keep an eye on the necessary changes that involve you and never on not smooth-talking agents.  

Your dream move should begin with caution, research and legitimacy and absolutely no regret! Stay smart, stay safe and welcome to NZ! 

Have concerns? Contact the Immigration of New Zealand (https://www.immigration.govt.nz).  

Have you or someone you know faced an immigration scam? Share your thoughts below!