The Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme allows approved New Zealand employers in sectors like horticulture, viticulture, and aquaculture to hire overseas workers to meet temporary seasonal labour shortages. The program plays a crucial role in maintaining New Zealand’s agricultural output and offers international workers legal, short-term employment.
This 2026 guide outlines important updates, eligibility, application procedures, and work conditions under the RSE scheme.
Key Changes:
1. Expanded Sector Inclusion
Select roles in aquaculture (e.g., shellfish processing) are now permitted under the RSE scheme in designated South Island regions, expanding beyond traditional horticulture and viticulture.
2. Digital Application Portal Upgrade
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has upgraded its RealMe portal to allow applicants to track visa status, upload documents more efficiently, and receive updates directly.
3. Mandatory Worker Orientation
All applicants must complete an online pre-departure training module on health, safety, and employment rights before arriving in New Zealand.
4. Additional Seasonal Work Allowed
With employer and INZ approval, workers may be eligible for up to eight additional weeks of seasonal work beyond the initial placement, within a 12-month period.
About the Seasonal Work Visa (RSE Scheme):
- Visa Duration: Up to 6 months, plus a 14-day grace period for departure.
- Purpose: Address genuine seasonal labour shortages in fruit, vegetable, grape, and aquaculture industries.
- Type: Temporary work visa tied to a specific employer.
- Employer Requirement: Must be an RSE-accredited business licensed by INZ.
Check Also: New Zealand Working Holiday Visa – Apply Process
Benefits:
1. Legal Employment in New Zealand
Work legally in New Zealand’s thriving agriculture industry with full worker protections under New Zealand labor laws.
2. Good Earning Potential
Earn competitive hourly wages (usually NZD $22–$25/hour or more during peak season), with overtime pay often available. Workers can save or send money home.
3. Short-Term Commitment
Ideal for those looking to work temporarily (up to 7 months), without a long-term relocation requirement.
4. Free or Subsidised Accommodation
Many RSE employers offer free or low-cost housing, along with transport to and from work sites.
5. Valuable Work Experience
Gain international agricultural experience that can benefit future job prospects or applications for longer-term visas.
6. Cultural Exchange and Community
Meet workers from around the world, participate in local events, and experience New Zealand culture and lifestyle.
7. Support from Employers
RSE employers are required to provide pastoral care, including orientation, health and safety training, and ongoing support during your stay.
8. Opportunities for Repeat Seasons
Many RSE workers return for multiple seasons, and experienced workers are often prioritized by employers.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the RSE visa in 2026, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold a valid passport (must remain valid for at least 3 months beyond the visa expiry).
- Meet health and character requirements (including medical and police checks).
- Have a confirmed job offer from a Recognised Seasonal Employer.
- Provide a Certificate of Employment (CoE) or Certificate of Identity (CoI) issued by the employer.
- Demonstrate basic English proficiency for health and safety compliance, or complete an INZ-approved online module.
- Show proof of sufficient funds (NZD $1,000 minimum), unless the employer certifies maintenance.
Required Documents:
;Prepare and scan the following documents before applying:
- Passport bio page
- Certificate of Identity (from your employer)
- Proof of maintenance (bank statement or employer certification)
- Medical certificate (required for stays over 6 months)
- Police clearance (for any country where you lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years)
- Certificate of completion of the pre-departure orientation module
Application Fees and Processing Times:
| Item | Fee (NZD) | Processing Time (Target) |
|---|---|---|
| Seasonal Work Visa Application | 330 | 75% processed within 20 working days |
| Medical Examination (if needed) | 100–200 | 1–2 weeks |
| Police Certificate | 50–100 | 2–4 weeks |
Processing time varies based on nationality and time of year. Apply at least 8 weeks in advance of your intended start date.
Application Process of New Zealand Seasonal Work Visa Process 2026:
Step 1: Secure Employment from an RSE Employer
You must first receive a formal job offer from an RSE-accredited company. Your employer will issue a Certificate of Identity (CoI) to support your visa application.
Step 2: Complete Online Worker Orientation
All applicants must complete INZ’s free health and safety module. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate of participation to upload with your application.
Step 3: Create a RealMe Account
Register for an account at realme.govt.nz to access and manage your application.
Step 4: Prepare and Submit Application
Log in to the INZ portal, select “Working in New Zealand” > “Seasonal Work Visa (RSE)”, fill in the online form, upload required documents, and pay the application fee.
Step 5: Biometric Data (if requested)
Some applicants may be required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph) at a Visa Application Centre.
Step 6: Wait for the Visa Decision
Track your application progress via the RealMe dashboard. INZ may contact you for additional documents or clarification.
Step 7: Travel and Check-In with Employer
Once the visa is granted, you’ll receive an eVisa. Travel within your approved dates and report to your employer immediately on arrival.
After Arrival: Employment Terms and Responsibilities
- Work Scope: You may only work for the employer listed in your visa. Changing employers requires formal approval.
- Work Conditions: RSE employers must provide safe accommodation, fair wages (at or above minimum wage), and access to healthcare if needed.
- Additional Work Periods: Apply for extra work (up to 8 weeks) through your employer and INZ if your initial contract ends early.
- Visa Extensions: Generally not granted. If you wish to return the following year, a new job offer and visa application are required.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Apply early: October through December is an ideal period to apply for roles starting.
- Double-check documentation: Incomplete applications often lead to delays or rejections.
- Avoid unlicensed agents: Apply through verified employers or government-approved agencies in your country.
- Keep digital backups: Store all submitted documents, payment receipts, and communication for your records.
- Understand your rights: You are protected under New Zealand employment law. Any violation can be reported confidentially to Employment New Zealand.
Conclusion:
The updates to New Zealand’s Seasonal Work Visa under the RSE scheme aim to improve fairness, efficiency, and worker welfare. If you meet the criteria and follow the official process, you’ll have access to temporary employment in a safe, regulated environment while contributing to New Zealand’s seasonal economy.
For up-to-date RSE employer lists and application links, visit the official Immigration New Zealand website.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the New Zealand Seasonal Work Visa?
This visa allows overseas workers to work temporarily in New Zealand’s horticulture and viticulture sectors (e.g., fruit picking, pruning, packing) for up to 7 months in any 11-month period under the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme.
How do I get a job under the RSE scheme?
You must be offered a position by a Recognised Seasonal Employer in New Zealand. Some employers recruit directly, while others work with approved agents or through government partnerships (especially in Pacific nations).
Who can apply for the Seasonal Work Visa?
The visa is typically open to workers from Pacific Island countries, but people from other countries may be accepted based on employer demand and immigration policy. You must have a job offer from an RSE-accredited employer to apply.