Illegal immigrants in new zealand
New Zealand has a complex and nuanced approach to immigration, with a focus on attracting skilled workers and refugees while also addressing concerns around border security and the treatment of asylum seekers.
Here are some key facts and statistics about illegal immigrants in New Zealand:
- Definition of an illegal immigrant: In New Zealand, an illegal immigrant is someone who enters the country without a valid visa or overstays their visa.
- Numbers: According to the New Zealand Immigration Service, there were approximately 12,000 people in New Zealand who were in the country illegally in 2020. This represents about 0.3% of the total population.
- Reasons for illegal immigration: Many people enter New Zealand illegally in search of better economic opportunities, fleeing persecution or conflict, or seeking asylum. Others may be smuggled into the country or enter through unofficial border crossings.
- Detection and deportation: New Zealand Immigration Service officers work to detect and deport illegal immigrants. In 2020, 4,300 people were detected and removed from the country, with the majority being deported to their country of origin.
- Asylum seekers: New Zealand has a formal asylum seeker process, which allows people to apply for refugee status if they are fleeing persecution or conflict. In 2020, 1,400 people applied for asylum in New Zealand, with 70% of applications being approved.
- Treatment of asylum seekers: New Zealand has been criticized for its treatment of asylum seekers, including the use of detention centers and the length of time it takes to process applications. The country has also faced criticism for its handling of asylum seekers who are turned back at the border.
- Border security: New Zealand has a robust border security system, which includes biometric identification, surveillance cameras, and immigration officers at airports and ports. The country also works with international partners to share intelligence and prevent illegal immigration.
- Public opinion: Public opinion on illegal immigration in New Zealand is complex and nuanced. While some people support stricter border controls and deportation of illegal immigrants, others argue that the country should prioritize compassion and provide a safe haven for those fleeing persecution or conflict.
Some notable cases and controversies related to illegal immigration in New Zealand include:
- In 2019, a group of 12 asylum seekers were turned back at the border after attempting to enter New Zealand on a boat. The incident sparked controversy and raised questions about the country's treatment of asylum seekers.
- In 2020, a group of 15 people were arrested and charged with illegal immigration after being found living in a Auckland suburb. The incident highlighted concerns around the presence of illegal immigrants in New Zealand communities.
- In 2018, a report by the New Zealand Human Rights Commission criticized the country's treatment of asylum seekers, including the use of detention centers and the length of time it takes to process applications.
Overall, illegal immigration is a complex issue in New Zealand, with both practical and ethical considerations at play. While the country has a robust border security system and a formal asylum seeker process, there are ongoing challenges and controversies related to the treatment of asylum seekers and the presence of illegal immigrants in the country.