Protecting migrant workers — Immigration New Zealand reinforces employer responsibilities

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is urging employers and migrant workers to understand and follow visa conditions after a recent case highlighted the serious consequences of non-compliance.

SSB Group and its former Director, Amandeep Singh, were fined in the Tauranga District Court yesterday for allowing migrant workers to work outside the conditions of their visas — a breach that not only exploited vulnerable workers but also undermined the integrity of New Zealand’s immigration system.

Singh faced 5 charges of aiding and abetting breaches of visa conditions, while SSB Group was charged with 5 counts of employer offences. Fines totalling NZD $12,000 were issued: NZD $3,750 to Singh in his capacity as former Director, and NZD $8,250 to the company, SSB Group. As a result of these breaches, SSB Group’s accreditation has been revoked.

SSB Group, who became accredited in May 2023, hired 5 migrant workers to perform canopy maintenance work in orchards. Employment agreements promised 30 hours of work a week at NZD $29.66 an hour. However, the workers were instead directed to carry out vine work — tasks not covered by their visa conditions and were not consistently paid.

An investigation by INZ confirmed that Singh knowingly assigned work outside the legal scope of the workers’ visas.

“This case is a clear reminder that visa conditions are not optional. Employers who ignore them not only face legal consequences but also risk the wellbeing of their workers,” said James Friend, Acting National Manager Investigations.

INZ continues to monitor industries where migrant labour is common and encourages anyone with concerns about illegal work practices to come forward.

“We rely on the public and workers themselves to help us identify and stop exploitation,” said Friend. “If you see something, say something.”

Find out how to report concerns or learn more about visa conditions and employer responsibilities on the INZ website:

Get help for victims of migrant exploitation

Check or change your visa conditions

Immigration law for employers