RSE scheme review 2026: what growers and seasonal workers should know
The 2026 review of the Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme proposes removing the 20,750 cap, simpler Agreements to Recruit and a new RSE work visa. Here's the timeline.
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The Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme brings Pacific workers to New Zealand's orchards and vineyards each season. A 2026 policy review has proposed the biggest changes to the scheme in years. These were proposals in a July 2026 Cabinet paper, so watch for Immigration New Zealand confirming each one.
The proposed timeline
- Early 2027: remove the annual cap of 20,750 workers, which hasn't been reached for three years. A streamlined single-season Agreement to Recruit (ATR), and changes to cost recovery.
- Second half of 2027: a new accreditation and compliance framework, internet access added to pastoral care standards, new accommodation standards and a complaints process.
- 2028: sick leave aligned with the Employment Leave Bill.
- 2029: the RSE Limited Visa replaced by an RSE work visa as the system moves online.
What doesn't change
The review looked at longer visas but kept the current length: up to 7 months in any 11 months, or 9 months for workers from Kiribati and Tuvalu who live there.
What it means for growers
Fewer limits on numbers could make it easier to plan a bigger harvest workforce. But a new compliance framework and accommodation standards will need preparation. If you're a grower or packhouse, now is a good time to review your RSE processes and records.
What it means for workers
Better internet access standards and a complaints process are aimed at improving conditions. Until 2029, the current RSE Limited Visa rules still apply: you can't apply for another visa while in New Zealand on it.
Read the full seasonal work guide, or see how we help employers with RSE status and Agreements to Recruit.
This is general information, not immigration advice. For advice on your situation, talk to a licensed immigration adviser.