New Zealand is one of the most scenic and peaceful countries in the world, offering vast agricultural opportunities and a welcoming atmosphere. Every year, thousands of overseas workers arrive to help with seasonal farming tasks like fruit picking, pruning, and grape harvesting.
If you’re interested in working temporarily in New Zealand’s agriculture or viticulture sectors, the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Limited Visa is your legal pathway. This guide covers everything you need to know to apply successfully in 2025—including eligibility, documents, visa conditions, and helpful links to official New Zealand government sources.
What Is the Seasonal Work Visa?
The Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Limited Visa allows overseas workers to live and work in New Zealand temporarily—usually up to 7 months in an 11-month period—for roles in the horticulture (fruit/vegetable) and viticulture (grape/wine) industries.
This visa is designed for short-term employment and does not lead to permanent residency. However, it provides a great opportunity to earn income, gain work experience, and return home with savings.
About the RSE Visa – Immigration New Zealand
Who Can Apply for the RSE Visa?
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Be from an Eligible Country
The RSE visa is offered primarily to citizens of countries with seasonal work agreements with New Zealand, including:
- Fiji
- Samoa
- Tonga
- Vanuatu
- Solomon Islands
- Kiribati
- Tuvalu
- Papua New Guinea
- Timor-Leste
Official updates on eligible countries:
RSE Scheme – Government Partnerships
2. Have a Job Offer from a Recognised Seasonal Employer
You must be employed by a New Zealand company approved under the RSE scheme. These employers are authorised to recruit overseas workers for seasonal tasks.
List of RSE Accredited Employers – Immigration NZ
3. Be 18 Years or Older
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, in good health, and capable of doing physically demanding outdoor work.
4. Be of Good Character
You’ll need to show that you do not have any serious criminal record and may be asked to provide police clearance certificates.
Character Requirements – Immigration NZ
5. Meet Health Requirements
Medical exams or chest X-rays may be required depending on how long you plan to stay.
Health Requirements – Immigration NZ
Required Documents for the RSE Visa
To apply for the Seasonal Work Visa, you’ll need to prepare:
- Valid passport
- Passport-sized photos
- Official job offer from an RSE employer
- Proof of accommodation and transport (from employer)
- Police certificates from all countries where you’ve lived for 12+ months
- Medical certificates (if staying over 6 months)
- Evidence of funds to support yourself at the beginning of your stay (e.g., bank statements)
- Return flight ticket or funds to purchase one
Supporting Documents Checklist – Immigration NZ
Application Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Get a Job Offer
Start by applying to an RSE-accredited employer. Many recruit through government-to-government arrangements, agents, or directly.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare all the necessary documents. Translate them into English if required. Your employer might help with some paperwork.
Step 3: Apply for the Visa
You can apply either:
- Online via the official Immigration New Zealand portal, or
- By paper in countries without online processing
Apply Online – Immigration New Zealand
Step 4: Attend an Interview or Biometrics (if required)
You may need to attend an interview or provide fingerprints at your local visa centre or embassy.
Visa Application Centres – Immigration NZ
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Processing typically takes 15–30 working days, depending on your country and documentation.
Visa Processing Times – Immigration NZ
Step 6: Receive Your Visa
If approved, your visa will include:
- Entry/exit dates
- Employer name
- Work location
- Health insurance conditions (if applicable)
Step 7: Travel to New Zealand & Start Work
Once approved, travel to New Zealand and begin work with your assigned employer. Your accommodation and transport may be pre-arranged.
Arriving in New Zealand – Customs Advice
Important Conditions
- You must work only for the employer listed on your visa.
- You cannot bring dependents (no spouse or children).
- You cannot study while on this visa.
- You must leave before your visa expires.
Visa Conditions – Immigration NZ
Benefits of the RSE Visa
- Legally earn income and support your family back home
- Gain experience working in an advanced economy
- Protection under New Zealand’s fair labour laws
- Possibility of returning for another season if employer satisfaction is high
Employment Rights in NZ – Employment New Zealand
Typical Jobs Offered Under the RSE Visa
- Fruit and vegetable picking
- Pruning trees and thinning crops
- Packing and sorting produce
- Vineyard work (grape harvesting)
- General farm support
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start the application early, especially if applying through an agent
- Ensure all documents are valid, clear, and translated
- Be honest—false information can lead to bans
- Stay in good health and avoid legal issues
- Maintain contact with your employer throughout the process
- Respect visa conditions once in New Zealand
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long can I stay on this visa?
🡲 Up to 7 months in an 11-month period
Q: Can I apply for permanent residency later?
🡲 No, this is strictly a temporary visa.
Q: Can I change employers or work location?
🡲 Only if you receive written permission from Immigration NZ.
Q: Can I bring my spouse or children?
🡲 No, dependants are not allowed.
Q: Will I be invited again next year?
🡲 If you perform well, your employer may request you again.
Q: Is this job physically demanding?
🡲 Yes, it usually includes long hours of standing, lifting, or bending.
Q: Can I study while on this visa?
🡲 No, studying is not permitted.
Q: What happens if I overstay?
🡲 Overstaying may result in deportation and a ban on future visas.
🔗 Overstaying and Deportation – Immigration NZ
Summary
The New Zealand Seasonal Work Visa offers a valuable short-term opportunity for people from eligible countries to legally work in horticulture or viticulture. Though temporary, it helps workers earn income, gain international experience, and support their families.
For anyone considering this route in 2025, following the official process, gathering documents early, and respecting visa terms are key to a smooth journey.
Start your application – Immigration New Zealand
