Foreign workers who disappear from approved jobs could face removal as Immigration authorities ramp up checks on absconders, Minister for Immigration Viliame Naupoto has warned.
Mr Naupoto said a growing list of prohibited immigrants was being compiled after employers reported workers who were issued with work permits but were no longer working for them.
“The list is generated after reports from employers that their workers who were issued with work permits are no longer working with them and they have absconded,” he said.
He said some names were added following spot checks by Immigration compliance teams.
“In some cases, our compliance teams find that workers who hold permits to work for a certain company are no longer there,” Mr Naupoto said.
“In a few cases, the relatives of permit holders are reporting that they have lost contact, and they do not know where they are.”
Mr Naupoto said the ministry appreciated employers and individuals who reported such cases.
“Checks are made by Immigration officers through the Immigration systems to verify permit status.
“There is an attempt to contact them through their declared contact details, and also physical checks at their last known address.
“Workers or visitors who remain in the country after their permits expire are considered prohibited immigrants under the law.
“Workers and visitors whose permits have expired whilst in the country are prohibited immigrants, and the permanent secretary is authorised by the Immigration Act to publish information relating to prohibited immigrants, including name, address and photograph.
“There is a strong possibility that some of the workers may be working for other companies or employers illegally as they are now prohibited immigrants.”
Mr Naupoto stressed that work permits were issued for specific employers and could not be transferred.
“Work permits are issued in relation to a particular company and are not transferable for work in other companies or employers.
“Workers who work illegally are very vulnerable to exploitation.
“The exploitation of persons not legally entitled to work carries a maximum penalty of $750,000 or 20 years’ imprisonment, while facilitating the stay of an unauthorised migrant carries a maximum penalty of $5000 or two years’ imprisonment.”
