New Zealand has launched a new temporary visa to address labor shortages in key industries. This visa is a subcategory of the Specific Purpose Work Visa. It supports sectors that face peak season labor shortages by providing extra hands. Industries such as harvesting, ski instructing, and tree planting will benefit from this new visa. The goal is to strengthen New Zealand’s workforce in crucial areas like horticulture and viticulture.
How to Apply for the New Temporary Visa
Applying for the new temporary visa is straightforward if you follow these steps:
Application Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 31 March 2025. Meeting this deadline is important for securing positions for upcoming seasonal work.
Employer Criteria: Employers must fulfill several requirements to hire seasonal workers under this visa:
- Employer Accreditation: Employers need accredited status to confirm their eligibility.
- Wage Criteria: Employers must offer a minimum wage of NZD 29.66 (about Rs 1,543) per hour for at least 30 hours a week.
- Job Advertisement: Employers must advertise the job before hiring and provide proof of this advertisement. This ensures transparency and prioritizes local job opportunities.
Additionally, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is reviewing the Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWV). They may introduce longer-term visa options based on this review, benefiting employers needing workers for extended periods.
Eligible Countries
The new temporary visa is available to individuals from a wide range of countries. Specifically, it is open to nationals from Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, the United States including India. Indian citizens who meet the visa criteria are welcome to apply. For precise details and any updates, it is advisable to check the latest guidelines from Immigration New Zealand or consult with a qualified immigration advisor.
Additionally, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is reviewing the Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWV) and may introduce longer-term visa options based on this review, which could benefit employers needing workers for extended periods.
Updates to the Recognised Seasonal Employers (RSE) Scheme
Recent updates to the Recognised Seasonal Employers (RSE) Scheme will improve conditions for Pacific workers and better address New Zealand’s labor needs:
- Payment Requirement: From 2 September 2024, employers must pay RSE workers for an average of 30 hours per week over a four-week period. This change accounts for work availability fluctuations due to weather conditions.
- Flexibility: The scheme now allows RSE workers a grace period of 21 days, up from 14 days, to transition between employers and regions. This extension helps workers find new opportunities more smoothly.
- Wage Adjustments: Returning RSE workers in their third or subsequent seasons will earn at least NZD 25.47 (about Rs 1,325) per hour for the 2024-2025 season. This is 10% above the minimum wage. New RSE workers will start at the minimum wage.
New Cap for RSE Workers: The cap for RSE workers has increased to 20,750 for the 2024-2025 season, up by 1,250 from the previous season. This increase will help address labor shortages in industries like wine and kiwifruit exports and consider worker accommodation needs.
Understanding the Specific Purpose Work Visa
The Specific Purpose Work Visa addresses short-term labor needs during peak seasons. Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility Criteria:
- Relevant Experience: Applicants need at least four months of relevant work experience.
- Wage Requirement: Applicants must earn a minimum of NZD 29.66 per hour.
- Work Hours: Applicants must commit to working at least 30 hours per week.
Employer Requirements: Employers must be accredited and complete an Employer Supplementary Form (INZ 1113) for the application.
Visa Duration: The new temporary visa allows a stay of up to nine months, depending on the length of the seasonal contract. This flexibility is crucial for meeting seasonal demands effectively.
Additional Roles Covered: The Specific Purpose Work Visa also applies to senior or specialist business persons, dance and music examiners, and critical health workers.
Costs and Processing Times
For Indian applicants, the application fee for the Specific Purpose Work Visa is NZD 735 (about Rs 38,237). This fee includes a non-refundable immigration levy and an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD 35 (around Rs 1,820). Immigration New Zealand estimates processing times at approximately three weeks. Applicants can apply online, upload required documents, and pay the fees as per the process.
Conclusion
The new temporary visa is a significant step in addressing labor shortages in New Zealand’s seasonal industries. It provides a clear pathway to mitigate skill shortages during peak periods and balances the interests of both employers and workers. With clear criteria for applicants and updates to existing schemes like the RSE, New Zealand is enhancing workforce flexibility and supporting industry growth. Those interested should apply within the specified timeframe and meet all requirements to take full advantage of this new temporary visa opportunity.