New Zealand IAA warns Filipinos of unlicensed immigration advisers

REGISTRAR of the New Zealand Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA) Catherine Albiston was in the Philippines last week advising communities of the importance of only using licensed or exempt advisers when seeking New Zealand immigration advice.

“New Zealand is a popular destination for Filipino migrants to work, study or visit, but it may not be common knowledge that anyone who needs help completing a New Zealand visa application must get advice from the right person,” said Albiston during her roundtable interview with the media on October 5.

“There is no requirement to use an immigration adviser, however if visa applicants need help then only a licensed immigration adviser or exempt person can assist. Exempt persons include Immi- gration New Zealand staff, current New Zealand lawyers, and education agents for student visas only,” she explained.

Albiston’s visit in Manila and Cebu is part of IAA’s campaign to increase awareness of the agency’s licensed adviser register and list of exempt persons and the risks associated with using unlicensed advisers.

“Unfortunately there are people who operate unlawfully and provide advice without a license, which can result in a distressing situation for the visa applicant and their family,” Albiston shared.

“With the amount of information available in today’s world, it can be dif why the IAA offers a register of licensed advisers on the website. Licensed advisers have specialist expertise and have met competency standards. They follow a code of conduct that requires them to be honest and respectful. People who are not licensed or exempt, including POEA agencies, can share publicly available information, but cannot provide immigration advice,” she explained.

Visa applicants can use the checklist before they choose who provides them with advice.

The IAA is responsible for issuing licenses to advisers and handling complaints about poor immigration advice. The IAA does not provide immigration advice. A person’s immigration status will not be affected by contacting the IAA.

More information on the IAA can be found at iaa.govt.nz or via email – info@ iaa.govt.nz. For free information on New Zealand’s immigration requirements go to www.immigration.govt.nz