IShowSpeed under investigation for possible New Zealand visa breach after live streams

IShowSpeed faces investigation in New Zealand for allegedly violating visa terms by monetizing his live streams.

Popular YouTuber IShowSpeed is currently under investigation in New Zealand over concerns he may have violated his visa conditions during his recent visit. The content creator, whose real name is Darren, has been traveling internationally throughout 2024, and his time in New Zealand has raised some legal questions. He entered the country on a visitor visa, which typically does not permit the holder to work or earn money.

The investigation began after it was revealed that IShowSpeed had been streaming content during his stay. There are concerns that monetizing his streams could be a violation of the visitor visa terms. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) confirmed that IShowSpeed entered under a visitor visa, which prohibits work or income generation. Richard Owen, the general manager of INZ, explained that the case would be handled according to standard procedures, and if any breach is confirmed, the YouTuber could face deportation.

In response to these allegations, IShowSpeed’s cameraman, Slipz, took to social media to defend the YouTuber. He asserted that IShowSpeed had not been paid by any New Zealand-based company and insisted that there had been no violation of the visa terms. Despite this, New Zealand authorities are still reviewing the situation.

IShowSpeed is scheduled to leave New Zealand on November 27, 2024. If he plans to return in the future, officials have indicated that he would need to apply for a work visa to ensure compliance with the country's visa laws.