Fiji is currently facing a significant challenge with over 8,000 illegal immigrants in the country, according to Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua. This number has seen a dramatic rise in just one year; a report from January 2023 indicated around 4,709 illegal immigrants at the time.
Minister Tikoduadua highlighted the lack of a dedicated immigration enforcement agency within the Fiji Immigration Department. This situation has necessitated collaboration with the Fiji Police Force for the removal of individuals who have overstayed their visas. He noted that many of these overstayers include students and workers, particularly from countries like Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, who change employers without proper authorization.
The minister explained the legal process involved in addressing cases of overstaying. While some individuals may seek to extend their stay after their visa expires, the law provides for appeals. If an overstayer challenges their removal in court, immigration authorities are required to wait until the court has made a ruling before taking further action.
An example of the complexities of this situation includes Grace Road president Daniel Kim and two other Koreans, who have reportedly been in prison for nearly a year due to legal proceedings preventing their removal until the court delivers its verdict.
While this issue presents challenges, it also offers an opportunity for Fiji to strengthen its immigration processes and enforcement strategies in the future, potentially leading to a more structured and efficient immigration system. Continued discussions about immigration policy and enforcement may encourage a more responsible approach, benefitting both residents and newcomers alike.
In summary, Fiji is currently grappling with a rise in illegal immigration, now exceeding 8,000 individuals, with challenges related to enforcement and legal proceedings delaying resolutions. The situation underscores an urgent need for improved immigration management and enforcement strategies.
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