Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme Expanded for 2024-2025 Season 

The Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, a cornerstone of New Zealand’s horticulture and viticulture industries, has seen its worker cap raised for the 2024-2025 season. The scheme, established in 2007, allows employers in these sectors to recruit workers from overseas when local labor is insufficient.

The Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, a cornerstone of New Zealand’s horticulture and viticulture industries, has seen its worker cap raised for the 2024-2025 season. The scheme, established in 2007, allows employers in these sectors to recruit workers from overseas when local labor is insufficient. 

RSE Cap Increased 

The RSE worker cap has risen to 20,750 places for the 2024-2025 season, an increase of 1,250 from the previous year. This adjustment addresses industry demands while ensuring minimal impact on New Zealand’s labor market. The cap considers factors such as labor market conditions and the availability of suitable accommodation for workers. 

The Government sets the cap, while regional allocations are managed by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) and the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) in consultation with industry stakeholders. 

Worker Recruitment and Eligible Countries 

RSE workers are primarily recruited from eligible Pacific nations, including: 

  • Fiji 
  • Samoa 
  • Tonga 
  • Vanuatu 
  • Papua New Guinea, among others

Employers manage recruitment, visa applications, and travel logistics, while labor-sending units in partner countries oversee worker preparation. 

Worker and Employer Requirements 

Workers Must: 

  • Meet health and character requirements. 
  • Provide proof of return travel arrangements. 
  • Stay up to 7 months in any 11-month period (exceptions for Tuvalu and Kiribati, allowing up to 9 months due to travel costs and distance). 

Employers Must: 

  • Obtain RSE status by demonstrating sound financial standing and compliance with employment laws. 
  • Guarantee minimum remuneration of 30 hours per week at market rates, regardless of work availability. 
  • Cover half of workers’ return airfares (exceptions apply). 
  • Provide safe, affordable accommodation and pastoral care for workers. 

Focus on Worker Welfare

The scheme emphasizes the welfare of RSE workers. Employers must ensure their well-being and comply with employment agreements specifying rates, deductions, and minimum remuneration. Additionally, restrictions on residential accommodation use help manage housing demand in high-pressure regions. 

Supporting New Zealand’s Workforce 

The RSE scheme ensures New Zealanders are prioritized for employment while allowing overseas workers to fill critical gaps. This balance helps sustain New Zealand’s vital horticulture and viticulture sectors. 

For more details or assistance with RSE applications, contact VisaSector today!