New Zealand has launched a new temporary visa under the Specific Purpose Work Visa category to address labor shortages in key seasonal industries. This initiative is designed to support sectors such as horticulture and viticulture, which frequently struggle to find sufficient workers during peak periods. The visa is expected to play a crucial role in sustaining the country’s agricultural and tourism industries during their busiest seasons.
Overview of the New Zealand Temporary Visa
A temporary visa allows individuals to stay in a country for a limited period, typically for specific purposes like work, study, or tourism. Unlike permanent visas, temporary visas do not grant long-term residency or citizenship. They are usually issued for short-term roles, seasonal work, or specific events. In New Zealand, temporary visas, such as the Specific Purpose Work Visa, are essential for filling labor shortages during peak seasons, ensuring that critical industries continue to function efficiently.
Target Sectors and Benefits
New Zealand’s new temporary visa is targeted at industries that require seasonal labor, including horticulture, viticulture, ski instructing, and tree planting. These sectors often face labor shortages during peak seasons, and this visa is designed to fill that gap effectively.
Application Process and Requirements
Applications for this visa must be submitted by March 31, 2025. To be eligible, employers must:
- Hold employer accreditation.
- Offer a minimum wage of NZD 29.66 (approximately ₹1,543) per hour.
- Guarantee at least 30 hours of work per week.
Employers are also required to advertise the role before hiring and must provide evidence of this in the visa application.
Changes to the Recognised Seasonal Employers (RSE) Scheme
Starting September 2, 2024, significant changes will be made to the Recognised Seasonal Employers (RSE) scheme to better support both employers and workers:
- Guaranteed Hours: Employers must pay RSE workers for an average of 30 hours per week over a four-week period, addressing issues of inconsistent work availability due to weather conditions.
- Multi-Entry Visas: RSE workers will now be eligible for multi-entry visas, allowing them to leave and re-enter New Zealand during the season, although they must cover the costs of any temporary departures.
- Accommodation Costs: Employers can increase accommodation costs by 15% or NZD 15.00 per week, whichever is lower, for 12 months. This applies only to workers who have not agreed on accommodation costs before September 2, 2024.
Enhanced Flexibility for RSE Workers
The new rules provide greater flexibility for RSE workers, including:
- Extended Grace Period: The grace period for moving between employers or regions will be extended from 14 to 21 days.
- Increased Mobility: Workers will have more opportunities to transfer between employers, enhancing job prospects and supporting industries in need of seasonal labor.
Salary Requirements
Beginning in the 2024-2025 season, returning RSE workers (those in their third or subsequent seasons) must be paid at least NZD 25.47 (approximately ₹1,325) per hour, which is 10% above the minimum wage. New workers must be paid at least the New Zealand minimum wage.
Understanding the Specific Purpose Work Visa
The Specific Purpose Work Visa is intended for individuals who need to come to New Zealand for a particular role or event, especially during seasonal peaks. This visa is suitable for:
- Workers with at least four months of relevant experience.
- Those earning a minimum of NZD 29.66 per hour.
- Individuals working at least 30 hours per week.
Employers must be accredited and provide necessary documentation, including the Employer Supplementary Form (INZ 1113).
Who Can Apply?
This visa is also available to various professionals, including:
- Senior or specialist business persons on short-term secondments.
- Dance and music examiners.
- Critical health workers.
- Other critical workers with a Critical Purpose Visitor Visa (CPVV).
Duration of Stay
The duration of a Specific Purpose Work Visa is tied to the length of the employment contract, with a maximum stay of up to nine months.
Costs and Application Timeframes
For Indian applicants, the cost of the Specific Purpose Work Visa is NZD 735 (approximately ₹38,237). This includes a non-refundable immigration levy and an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD 35 (approximately ₹1,820). Immigration New Zealand typically processes applications within three weeks. Applicants can complete the process online, uploading the necessary documents and paying the applicable fees.
Conclusion
New Zealand’s new temporary visa offers a timely solution to seasonal labor shortages, ensuring that key industries can operate efficiently during peak times. With flexible terms and updated wage requirements, this visa not only supports employers but also provides fair opportunities for workers.
As these changes come into effect, New Zealand is well-positioned to meet the increasing demands of its key sectors while maintaining a robust and dynamic workforce.
