RSE (Recognised Seasonal Employer) Limited Visa – New Zealand
The RSE scheme offers citizens of Pacific countries and other eligible nationals the opportunity to undertake seasonal work in New Zealand's beautiful orchards and vineyards. This is a special and limited visa that allows you to work in New Zealand for a specific RSE employer for a seasonal period — typically up to 7 months (or 9 months for citizens of Kiribati and Tuvalu).
Eligibility: How to Apply for an RSE Limited Visa
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Have a valid job offer and employment agreement from an approved RSE employer.
- Be a citizen of and normally reside in an eligible Pacific country (unless the employer has an exception).
- Meet New Zealand's health and character requirements.
- Hold acceptable medical insurance for your entire stay.
Your Rights and Protections as an RSE Worker
The RSE scheme includes strong rules to protect you as a worker. Every RSE employer must provide fair pay, proper accommodation, and essential support during your stay in New Zealand.
What Your Employer Must Provide
- Written Employment Agreement: Details your pay, hours, and job duties before you arrive.
- Guaranteed Minimum Pay: You are guaranteed payment for a minimum number of hours, even if bad weather or other reasons mean there is no work.
- Fair Pay: You must be paid at least the market rate for the work you do, and not less than the New Zealand minimum wage.
- Paid Sick Leave: You are entitled to accumulate paid sick leave during your employment.
- Pastoral Care: Your employer must help you find suitable accommodation, transport, and access to essential services.
- Airfare Contribution: Your employer pays for half of your return airfare to New Zealand.
Key Requirements & Protections at a Glance
| Aspect | Key Requirement |
|---|---|
| For Employers | Must be a NZ-based horticulture/viticulture business with RSE status and an ATR. |
| For Workers | Must have a job offer from an RSE, be from an eligible country, and meet health/character checks. |
| Visa Duration | Maximum of 7 months in any 11-month period (9 months for Kiribati & Tuvalu). |
| Wages | Must be paid at least the market rate, with a guaranteed minimum income. |
| Airfare | Employer pays for half of the worker's return airfare. |
| Accommodation | Employer must ensure suitable accommodation is available at a reasonable cost. |
| Sick Leave | Workers are entitled to paid sick leave that accumulates over their employment. |
| Medical Insurance | Employer must arrange, and worker must hold, comprehensive medical insurance. |
| Pacific Preference | Recruitment is focused on citizens from eligible Pacific nations. |