To combat labour shortages in critical sectors, New Zealand has unveiled a new temporary visa option specifically designed for seasonal workers. This new subcategory under the Specific Purpose Work Visa aims to offer short-term relief to industries that experience seasonal peaks, such as harvesting, ski instructing, and tree planting. Immigration New Zealand has identified key sectors like horticulture, viticulture, and other industries reliant on seasonal labour as the primary beneficiaries.
How to Apply for the Seasonal Worker Visa
Workers seeking this new temporary visa must submit their applications by 31 March 2025. Employers are required to meet several criteria, including holding employer accreditation, offering a minimum wage of NZD 29.66 (Rs 1,543) per hour for at least 30 hours a week, and advertising the role before hiring. Evidence of this advertisement must be provided to the applicant for inclusion in their visa application. Immigration New Zealand is also considering a longer-term visa option as part of its ongoing review of the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
Changes to the Recognised Seasonal Employers (RSE) Scheme
The Recognised Seasonal Employers (RSE) scheme is set for changes aimed at benefiting Pacific workers and New Zealand’s specific sectors. Starting from 2 September 2024, employers will be mandated to ensure RSE workers are paid for an average of 30 hours a week over four weeks. This intends to address employer concerns about fluctuating work availability due to weather conditions, which previously forced them to pay for unworked hours.
RSE workers will now receive a multi-entry visa, allowing them to leave and return to New Zealand during the season. However, they must bear the costs of any temporary departures, including flights. Additionally, HIV screening requirements have been removed for RSE visas to align with other visas.
Flexibility and Accommodation Costs for RSE Workers
Employers will be allowed to increase accommodation costs by either 15 percent or NZD 15.00 per week, whichever is lower, for 12 months. This change affects only those workers who haven’t agreed on accommodation costs before 2 September 2024. Any increases should be justified by actual, reasonable, and verifiable expenses.
RSE workers will also enjoy more flexibility in moving between employers and regions. The grace period for such movement will be extended from 14 days to 21 days. This added flexibility applies both to joint applications for worker transfers (ATRs) and individual employers with multiple worksites. Immigration New Zealand will continue exploring additional flexibility options as part of its ongoing review of the RSE scheme.
By implementing this new temporary visa and revising the RSE scheme, New Zealand aims to effectively address seasonal labour shortages while providing better working conditions and flexibility for seasonal workers.
Increased Cap for RSE Workers in 2024-2025 Season
The cap on the number of Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers for the 2024-2025 season has been elevated to 20,750, marking an increment of 1,250 from the preceding season. This adjustment mirrors the industry’s foreseen growth in sectors such as wine and kiwifruit exports. The new cap strategically balances labour demands with the availability of accommodation for workers.
Specific Purpose Work Visa
The Specific Purpose Work Visa is designed for individuals arriving in New Zealand for a particular role or event, especially during seasonal peaks. To qualify, applicants must have at least four months of relevant work experience, earn a minimum hourly wage of NZD 29.66, and work at least 30 hours per week. Employers must hold accreditation and submit a completed Employer Supplementary Form (INZ 1113) alongside the job offer.
This visa accommodates senior or specialist business persons on short-term secondments, dance and music examiners, critical health workers, and other critical workers holding a Critical Purpose Visitor Visa (CPVV). Each role has specific criteria such as a compliant job offer under New Zealand employment law, and evidence of relevant experience or qualifications.
Duration of Stay Under the Specific Purpose Work Visa
The duration of stay authorized by the Specific Purpose Work Visa is contingent upon the role but can extend up to nine months. The duration aligns with the length of the contract dedicated to the seasonal role.
Costs and Timeframes for Indian Applicants
For Indian nationals, applying for the Specific Purpose Work Visa costs NZD 735 (Rs 38,237). This fee encompasses a non-refundable immigration levy and an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD 35 (Rs 1,820). Immigration New Zealand aims to process applications within three weeks. Applicants may apply online by uploading their documents and paying any applicable fees throughout the process.
By understanding these updates and requirements about RSE workers and the Specific Purpose Work Visa, both employers and potential employees can better prepare for upcoming seasonal roles in New Zealand’s expanding sectors.
