In New Zealand, the government has introduced the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa (MEPV), a vital tool designed to protect visa holders from exploitation in the workplace.
This new visa category comes with specific conditions tailored to safeguard individuals facing exploitation while ensuring their ability to seek justice and maintain their livelihoods.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of the MEPV, including eligibility criteria, application process, and visa conditions.
Who Can Apply for the MEPV?
To be eligible for the MEPV, you must currently reside in New Zealand and hold a work visa that specifies your employer as a condition.
Additionally, you must be experiencing exploitation in your workplace, such as underpayment or unsafe working conditions.
The Application Process
The first step in obtaining the MEPV is to report the exploitation to Employment New Zealand through their website or you can call this number – 0800 20 00 88.
Upon receiving your report, Employment New Zealand will conduct an assessment to determine its credibility.
If your report is deemed credible, you will be issued a Report of Exploitation Assessment letter, which you can then use to apply for the MEPV.
Visa Conditions and Duration
Upon approval, the MEPV will be issued for a duration of either 6 months or for the remaining duration of your current visa, whichever is shorter.
This visa grants you the freedom to work for any employer in New Zealand, providing flexibility and empowerment during a challenging time.
Additional Considerations
While you must still meet the health and character requirements for a visa, you are not obligated to provide medical and police certificates with your MEPV application.
Moreover, partners and dependent children who hold visas based on their relationship to a person granted an MEPV may also be eligible for a further visa of the same type.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa underscores New Zealand’s commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all workers within its borders.
By providing a pathway for visa holders to address exploitation and seek justice, this initiative promotes fairness and equality in the workplace.
Contact us today for personalized assistance and guidance through the visa application process. Our team of experienced professionals is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your dream of living and working in New Zealand is protected.