New Zealand Seasonal Work Visa 2025 – Complete Process
The New Zealand Seasonal Work Visa under the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme is a vital pathway for individuals from participating countries to gain legal employment in New Zealand’s horticulture and viticulture industries. For the 2025 season, this program continues to offer a structured opportunity for temporary work, supporting both the New Zealand economy and the development of workers’ skills and earnings. This guide provides a complete overview of the eligibility criteria, step-by-step application process, and required documents.
Understanding the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme
The RSE scheme allows approved New Zealand employers in the horticulture and wine grape growing sectors to recruit workers from overseas for seasonal work when there are not enough local workers available. It is a tripartite process involving the New Zealand employer (the RSE employer), the sending country’s government, and the worker.
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Visa Type: This is a specific RSE Work Visa, which is a type of Temporary Work Visa.
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Work Duration: The visa is typically granted for a maximum of 7 months in any 11-month period for workers from most Pacific countries, or up to 9 months for workers from some other participating countries.
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Key Principle: The scheme is designed to be circular, with workers expected to return home after their seasonal work, contributing their skills and earnings to their home communities.
Eligibility Criteria for the 2025 Season
To qualify for the New Zealand Seasonal Work Visa (RSE), you must meet the following core requirements:
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Nationality: You must be a citizen of a participating country. The primary countries are Pacific nations such as Vanuatu, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Kiribati, Tuvalu, and Fiji. Other countries like Timor-Leste and Thailand may also have limited participation.
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Age: You must be between 21 and 45 years old at the time of application. Some exceptions may apply based on bilateral agreements.
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Health & Character:
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You must be in good health and may need to undergo a limited medical examination.
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You must have a clean police record and provide police certificates if requested.
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Nomination by an RSE Employer: You must have a job offer and be formally nominated by a New Zealand employer who is accredited under the RSE scheme. You cannot apply independently.
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Participation in Pre-departure Training: You must complete any mandatory pre-departure orientation provided by your home country’s government.
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Genuine Intent: You must genuinely intend to stay in New Zealand temporarily for seasonal work and then return to your home country.
Required Document Checklist
Preparation of correct documents is crucial. You will typically need:
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Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from New Zealand.
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Job Offer/Nomination Letter: Official documentation from your RSE employer detailing your job, contract duration, wages, and working conditions.
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Proof of Nationality: Such as a national ID card or birth certificate.
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Medical Certificates (if required): A completed Chest X-ray Certificate (INZ 1096) if you are from a country with a high incidence of tuberculosis, or if you intend to stay for over 6 months.
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Police Clearance Certificate: May be required for stays over 24 months or if otherwise requested.
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Proof of Pre-departure Training: Completion certificate from your home country’s relevant ministry.
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Proof of Temporary Intent: Evidence of strong family, financial, or social ties to your home country.
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Visa Application Form (INZ 1223): Completed and signed.
Complete Step-by-Step Application Process for 2025
The process is managed jointly by your home country’s government and the RSE employer.
Phase 1: Recruitment and Selection (In Your Home Country)
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Registration: Express your interest through your home country’s designated government ministry (e.g., Ministry of Labour, Employment, or Foreign Affairs).
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Selection & Pool: If you meet basic criteria, you may be placed in a pool of potential workers. RSE employers often select workers through government-facilitated processes or approved agents.
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Job Offer & Nomination: Once selected by an RSE employer, you will receive a formal Job Offer and a Nomination Letter. The employer will also provide you with an Offer of Employment (OE) number.
Phase 2: Visa Application (Lodged by Employer or Yourself)
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Document Gathering: Collect all required documents as listed above.
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Online Application Submission: Most RSE Work Visa applications are submitted online through Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ) website.
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Your employer or a licensed immigration adviser may lodge the application on your behalf using your OE number.
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Alternatively, you can create a RealMe account and apply online yourself using the OE number provided by your employer.
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Pay the Application Fee: The visa application fee must be paid online (approximately NZD $240 for a compulsory seasonal work visa). Note: Employers are legally required to pay the levy, but the application fee may be paid by either party as agreed.
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Biometrics and Medicals: Provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) if requested. Complete any required medical exams.
Phase 3: Pre-Departure and Arrival
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Visa Decision: INZ processes the application. If approved, your visa will be issued electronically (e-visa) or as a label in your passport.
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Pre-departure Orientation: Attend the mandatory government-run training in your home country covering New Zealand’s laws, culture, worker rights, and financial literacy.
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Travel to New Zealand: Your employer will typically coordinate your flights and initial accommodation. You must have a valid visa and your passport to travel.
Key Responsibilities and Worker Rights
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Minimum 30 Hours of Work: Your employer must guarantee at least 30 hours of work per week.
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Hourly Wage: You must be paid at least the New Zealand minimum wage (which will be reviewed in 2025; it is NZD $23.15 per hour as of April 2024).
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Accommodation: Employers must assist with arranging approved accommodation, which can be deducted from your pay at a regulated rate.
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Pastoral Care: RSE employers have legal obligations to provide pastoral care, including support for your health and well-being.
Pro-Tips for a Successful 2025 Application
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Engage Only Through Official Channels: Work directly with your home country’s government ministry or their approved agents. Beware of individuals demanding money for a job offer.
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Prepare Financially: While employers cover many costs, you may need funds for the visa fee (if applicable), medicals, and personal expenses before your first paycheck.
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Understand Your Contract: Know your wage, job description, work hours, and accommodation costs before you agree.
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Maintain Compliance: Adhere to New Zealand law and your visa conditions. Your visa is tied to your specific RSE employer for the first season. After completing your first season successfully, you may be eligible for a visa to return with more flexibility in subsequent seasons.
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Plan for Return: The scheme is temporary. Have a plan for your earnings and reintegration into your home community.
Conclusion
The New Zealand Seasonal Work Visa 2025 under the RSE scheme represents a well-regulated and mutually beneficial opportunity for temporary employment. Success depends on being nominated by an accredited RSE employer, meticulously preparing your application documents, and understanding your rights and responsibilities as a seasonal worker in New Zealand.
By following the official process through your home government, securing a genuine job offer, and completing each step of the visa application with care, you can access this valuable opportunity. This visa not only provides legal work and fair pay but also fosters cross-cultural exchange and skill development, making it a cornerstone of New Zealand’s partnership with Pacific nations.
