In recent months, many Vietnamese workers have been lured into participating in unverified “New Zealand labour export programs,” resulting in financial loss, lost opportunities, and even entry bans. This article will help you understand who is legally authorized to recruit and sponsor workers to New Zealand, while also warning about common New Zealand labour fraud schemes.
Who Has the Right to Sponsor Foreign Workers to New Zealand?
According to Immigration New Zealand (INZ) regulations, only employers who hold Accredited Employer status have the right to sponsor foreign workers.
To qualify for accreditation, employers must:
- Obtain Accredited Employer certification from the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE).
- Demonstrate financial stability and compliance with labour and tax laws.
- Have no immigration or illegal employment violations.
- Commit to paying at least the Median Wage as announced annually by the New Zealand Government.
Only after meeting these criteria can a business sponsor a worker for an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) — the official visa that allows you to work legally in New Zealand.
Who Has the Right to Recruit Vietnamese Workers for New Zealand?
In Vietnam, under the Law on Vietnamese Workers Working Abroad (2020), only the following entities are legally authorized to recruit:
- Vietnamese companies licensed by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) to send workers abroad, or
- Foreign companies legally recognized in the host country (such as New Zealand).
A legitimate recruitment company must have:
- A MOLISA-issued license for overseas labour export.
- A direct cooperation agreement or sponsorship from an INZ-accredited employer.
- Transparent contracts, costs, and visa information provided to workers.
Warning: Common New Zealand Labour Fraud Schemes
Currently, many individuals or organizations are impersonating New Zealand companies or international recruiters to collect deposits, airfares, or “sponsorship fees.”
Below are common red flags of New Zealand labour scams:
Warning signs:
- The company’s name does not appear on INZ’s official Accredited Employer list.
- Requests for personal money transfers, “visa reservation fees,” or private brokerage fees.
- Claims of “guaranteed visa approval,” “fast-track residency,” or “no interview required.”
- No English-language employment contract signed by a verified New Zealand employer.
What Should Workers Do to Avoid Scams?
- Verify the company through on the INZ Accredited Employer database.
- Only sign contracts after confirming the company’s legal status.
- Never pay deposits before receiving legitimate INZ or employer-issued documents.
- Keep copies of all contracts, receipts, and communications.
- Avoid offers claiming “travel to New Zealand without a visa” or “work via tourist packages.”
- Contact Koroo or other accredited legal recruitment agencies for proper guidance.
Conclusion
New Zealand maintains strict and transparent immigration policies.
Vietnamese workers can absolutely work legally and securely in New Zealand — as long as they collaborate with employers recognized by INZ and licensed by MOLISA.
However, if you fall for advertisements promising “cheap, fast, guaranteed New Zealand jobs,” you may lose all your money and face serious legal risks.
Stay alert and choose legitimate partners — that is the first step to protecting your future in New Zealand.
Koroo’s New Zealand Job Placement Service for Vietnamese Workers
Koroo’s job search service is designed to connect Vietnamese workers with reputable, suitable, and long-term career opportunities in New Zealand.
With a team of professionals who understand the New Zealand labour market, we accompany you through the entire process — from career consultation and document preparation to interview support and visa guidance.
Every step is handled transparently, accurately, and cost-effectively, helping you confidently build a career in one of the world’s most liveable countries.
>>>>> Contact Koroo now for a free consultation and start your journey to work and settle in New Zealand with expert guidance. <<<<<
