Meta responds over immigration lawyer who charged Filipino workers excessive fees for New Zealand jobs

Meta has responded to the Business and Human Rights Centre over reporting that an immigration lawyer who charged Filipino and Sri Lankan workers recruitment fees of up to NZD77,000 for New Zealand jobs and work visas advertised his services mainly through Facebook.

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Meta has responded to the Business and Human Rights Centre over reporting that an immigration lawyer who charged Filipino and Sri Lankan workers excessive recruitment fees for New Zealand jobs and work visas advertised his services through Facebook. The Centre published the response on 19 October.

According to the Centre's summary, it was reported in February 2026 that the lawyer, operating under the name KCL Consulting, allegedly charged Filipino and Sri Lankan workers recruitment fees of up to NZD77,000 to help them obtain a job and work visa in New Zealand. The lawyer reportedly threatened clients with large financial penalties if they complained. The workers were largely recruited into hospitality as chefs or waitresses, although one worked in healthcare.

The lawyer admitted to unsatisfactory conduct at a tribunal. In March 2026, it was reported that a ruling by the Lawyers and Conveyancers Disciplinary Tribunal found the lawyer had acted in a "disgraceful" manner, and that he advertised his services "mainly through Facebook".

In its response, Meta said: "Human exploitation is abhorrent and not allowed on our platforms." It said its Community Standards prohibit content that facilitates human exploitation, including labour exploitation, and that it works with trusted safety partners to identify, review and remove Facebook Pages, Facebook Profiles and Instagram accounts that may be engaging in recruitment, facilitation or exploitation of people.