Overstayers caught in visa scams can seek justice through the Immigration Advisers Authority.
Reports are received in complete confidence.
Overstayers need not be afraid.
We have no power to deport them. We are not part of Immigration New Zealand. They make decisions on visas and we deal with visa scams.
All we are interested in is bringing illegal immigration advisers to justice.
To report a scam involving an immigration adviser who’s not licensed, write or email the Authority explaining exactly what happened, giving dates and as much evidence as you can.
Reports can be made by the overstayer or a friend or family member.
If there is enough evidence, the case may go to court.
If the complaint is about a licensed immigration adviser, the case goes to a tribunal where compensation may be awarded.
In recent months, the Authority has helped consumers win more than $80,000 in fees and compensation through the Tribunal.
The advantage of using a licensed immigration adviser is you are more likely to get your money back.
It comes down to a simple choice. If you choose to report the case to us, you may get justice and your money back but if you do not report it, you would not get either.
It is as easy as 1, 2, 3.
Make sure that you are getting the best immigration advice or your money back. Use the Authority’s online register or call 0508-422422 to find a licensed immigration adviser or consultant.
Report any scams carried out by unlicensed immigration advisers in a letter to
The Immigration Advisers Authority (Attention: Complaints), P O Box 6222, Auckland 1141 or Email: info@iaa.govt.nz
Barry Smedts is the Registrar at the Immigration Advisers Authority based in Auckland. The above was issued as a press release last year.
