By Times Team

Copyright times

By Parmjeet Parmar, Pakuranga-based ACT List MP

New Zealand’s immigration system must be fair, trusted, and above all, it must work for New Zealanders.

Most migrants do the right thing and make an honest contribution to our society.

But when people lie, cheat, or commit serious crimes, New Zealand must be able to act swiftly and decisively.

That’s why I welcome the Government’s recently announced changes to immigration law.

They strengthen the system by ensuring New Zealand has the right tools to deal with serious breaches.

The announced Bill strengthens deportation rules so residence-class visa holders who commit serious criminal offences can be deported for up to 20 years after arrival.

Providing false or misleading information will also become grounds for deportation, and historic crimes committed before someone even set foot in New Zealand will be recognised.

Deportation notices will be able to be served electronically, and immigration officers will have stronger ID-checking powers when breaches are suspected.

These are common-sense changes that close loopholes and strengthen enforcement.

Crucially, the Bill also cracks down on migrant exploitation.

Too often, at-risk migrants are taken advantage of by those who exploit workers. Under this law, penalties will increase from seven to 10 years’ imprisonment.

Exploiting vulnerable people will not be tolerated. ACT backs the many migrants who follow the rules and help build our economy and communities.

But we must also hold accountable those who take advantage of New Zealanders or each other.

If immigration is to retain public confidence, there must be consequences for people who break the law or abuse the system.

At the same time, ACT believes there’s room to go further.

We have long argued that people seeking citizenship or permanent residency should sign up to basic values, such as respect for free speech and equal rights for all New Zealanders, regardless of sex or race.

Immigrating to New Zealand is a privilege, not an entitlement. New Zealand should continue to welcome those who want to contribute honestly.

But for those who don’t, the message is clear: exploitation, dishonesty, and serious crime have no place here.