The New Zealand Government is tightening the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa (MEPV) to better protect migrants and reduce the risk of exploitation.

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford emphasized that while New Zealand is known as a safe and attractive place to work, migrant exploitation remains an issue.

“Despite New Zealand being internationally regarded as a safe, fair and highly attractive place to work, we are not immune to migrant exploitation. This is unacceptable,” Stanford said.

The MEPV currently allows migrants to leave exploitative work situations while staying lawfully in the country and finding new employment. However, according to Stanford, the visa's broad criteria could inadvertently leave migrants in vulnerable positions for too long. The changes aim to address this concern.

“These settings need to be balanced to ensure they provide the ability for migrants to leave exploitative employment,” she explained.

Starting from October 31, the updated MEPV will continue to grant open work rights for six months but will narrow the definition of exploitation. The exploitation must now be tied to a genuine employment relationship. Lawful terminations, redundancies, or non-payment due to liquidation will no longer qualify unless they accompany exploitative behaviour or violate legal processes.

Additionally, migrants will no longer be able to apply for a second MEPV for an additional six months. A two-week transitional period will allow current visa holders expiring by November 30 to apply for a second visa if needed.

“These changes ensure migrants have adequate time to find work or arrange their departure, reducing the risk of future exploitation,” said Stanford.

"The reforms also align with recent changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa, signaling the Government’s commitment to tackling exploitation.