YouTuber IShowSpeed is being investigated in New Zealand for allegedly breaking the conditions of his visitor visa. The content creator, Darren Watkins Jr., is accused of breaking local immigration laws by making money off of his live streams while traveling the country.
Popular YouTuber sparks legal concerns
Speed traveled to the country on a visitor visa, which prohibits engaging in any kind of paid labor, including earning money through monetized streams, according to the Immigration Department of New Zealand. Richard Owen, general manager of Immigration New Zealand (INZ), stated, “A person cannot work in New Zealand while holding a visitor visa.” If a breach is confirmed, Speed could face deportation.
Debate over visa compliance
While New Zealand authorities investigated, Speed’s cameraman, known as Slipz, defended the YouTuber. Slipz stated on social media that there was no breach and that Speed had not been paid by any organization situated in New Zealand. “He hasn’t stepped outside of the bounds of his visa compliance,” Slipz insisted.
Ankur Sabharwal, an immigration adviser, pointed out that even generating indirect income while on a visitor visa may cause concerns. “If they feel he’s breaching his visa conditions, they could serve him a deportation liability notice,” Sabharwal explained.
What’s next for IShowSpeed?
Speed has been traveling a lot in 2024; his trip to New Zealand came after a series of viral moments, including a $10,000 race against an Australian football player and a cage fight with UFC pro Dan Hooker. Speed is scheduled to depart New Zealand on November 27 in spite of the controversy.
Immigration officials have encouraged him to apply for a work visa if he intends to return in order to prevent similar problems. Fans and critics are still awaiting the investigation’s conclusion, which may have an effect on his future travels.
Image courtesy: IShowSpeed