July 4, 2024
Immigration
New Zealand Visa Scams and How to Avoid Them
Immigrating to New Zealand is an exciting prospect, but unfortunately, it's also an opportunity that scammers try to exploit. Many individuals seeking visas to New Zealand have fallen prey to various scams promising work or residency visas. These scams often result in financial loss and dashed dreams. Understanding the signs of these scams and how to protect yourself is crucial. Numerous individuals have suffered substantial financial losses, believing they were securing a work or resident visa, only to discover they were getting a visitor visa and a ticket to nowhere.
Be Cautious of Deceptive Scam Tactics
Recently, an individual approached us after falling victim to a scam. This person was informed that their visa was undergoing processing and was asked to send their passport to an Immigration New Zealand (INZ) address, which they complied with. There was no actual visa application submitted, leaving INZ unaware of the origin of the passport. They were also told they needed to pay $240 for an ‘Authorisation Clearance Certificate’ and a $1,170 ‘Health Surcharge’ (to ‘give access to the New Zealand Health System’) into an account in the Philippines. We advised against this and immediately contacted INZ to find and return the passport. Emails from the so-called company provided links that looked like genuine URL addresses but there were slight differences in the wording of the address and the letterhead of the ‘company’. Such deceptive tactics underscore the importance of staying vigilant against such scams and learning some of the tactics you can use to identify them.
Identifying Signs of a Scam
There are common indicators that can help you recognise potential visa scams:
Request for Fees: Be cautious if you're asked to pay excessive fees for securing a job or visa application.
False Claims of Priority Processing: Some scams offer accelerated application processing or direct access to immigration officers, which are often false promises.
Deceptive Statements: Be cautious of any advice to lie on your visa application or claims that you have fewer rights than New Zealand citizens. Once employed, you share the same employment and legal rights as New Zealanders. However, remember that while you are a migrant, you must adhere to your visa conditions to remain in the country.
Promises of Residence: Be wary of promises that guarantee you will be granted residency, future earnings, or access to government support.
Mandatory Adviser Usage: You're not obligated to use an adviser. If you choose to, ensure they are licensed or a certified New Zealand lawyer.
Ways to Protect Yourself from Scams
Verify Advisers: If you decide to engage an adviser or lawyer, check the New Zealand Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) public register at ewr.govt.nz or the New Zealand Law Society register for lawyers via this link NZLS | Find a lawyer to confirm their legitimacy and active status. Research the advisor's reviews and seek recommendations from others who have used their services.
Avoid Guaranteed Results: No one can guarantee a successful visa application. Be wary of anyone promising assured results, as immigration outcomes can't be guaranteed.
Request Written Agreements: Always secure written agreements detailing the services offered, fees, and any guarantees made by the adviser. This protects your interests in case of discrepancies.
Check INZ scams information page on their website: This has information in Bengali, Chinese Nepali, Punjabi, Samoan, Tagalog, Tongan, Vietnamese, Urdu and Hindi.
Your Migration Journey
Your dream of moving to New Zealand should not be hindered by the fear of scams. Conduct thorough research, trust your instincts, and seek professional assistance from licensed advisers or certified lawyers. By staying informed and cautious, you can navigate the visa application process safely and securely.
Don't let scammers compromise your aspirations. We are here to support and guide you through your immigration journey to New Zealand. Contact us today for reliable and trustworthy advice, ensuring your move is seamless and hassle-free.
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