New Zealand will increase the cap of the Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme (RSE) by 1,250, as announced on the country’s official immigration website. More specifically, the number of foreigners allowed to enter the country for seasonal work will increase to 20,750 for 2024/25, up from 19,500 in the previous season, VisaGuide.World reports. Authorities explained that the new policy follows demands from some industry groups and recommendations from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). Immigration New Zealand said that the increase would help meet industry projections for growth, particularly in wine and kiwifruit exports, and related plans to expand their operations. It will also balance the labour needs of the industry and the availability of accommodation for workers.
In addition to the cap increase, the New Zealand government has announced some new changes concerning foreign seasonal workers and employers. For instance, RSE workers will be granted multiple-entry visas, which will allow them to leave and return to New Zealand during the season. Immigration New Zealand said this would allow the workers to attend events at home such as funerals without the need to apply for another visa. Moreover, the HIV screening requirement for RSE workers will no longer be required. Under the new rules, employers will be required to pay seasonal workers an average of 30 hours a week over four weeks.
Meanwhile, RSE workers returning for their third and subsequent seasons must be paid at least ten percent above the minimum wage (NZD 25.47 or US$ 15.31). Under the existing regulations, employers in New Zealand cannot hire RSE workers from Timor Leste. However, this rule is expected to change in the future, as the government has decided to include Timor Leste in the RSE Scheme. Authorities noted that the majority of these changes are expected to become effective on September 2, 2024.
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