NZ Seasonal Work 2026: Visa Guide & Faster EU Options

Many foreign workers look for seasonal work opportunities in New Zealand with visa sponsorship to earn high wages in farming or tourism. While New Zealand offers great views, the 2026 visa rules and high travel costs make it a difficult choice for many. At MEUSEPF, we help workers find faster, safer, and more accessible seasonal jobs in Mediterranean Europe, where the demand for staff is at an all-time high.

New Zealand Seasonal Work: Visa Sponsorship Rules for 2026

To work seasonally in New Zealand, most foreign workers use one of two main paths. The first is the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Limited Visa. This is specifically for the horticulture and viticulture sectors (picking fruit and pruning vines). The second is the Working Holiday Visa (WHV), which is only available to specific nationalities and age groups (usually 18–30 or 35).

For 2026, the New Zealand government has maintained a cap on RSE workers, currently set at approximately 19,500 per year Source: Immigration New Zealand. If you are not from a Pacific Island nation, getting an RSE spot is extremely competitive. For those looking at general roles, the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) requires a minimum pay rate of NZD $29.66 per hour for most roles, making it hard for seasonal employers to sponsor foreign staff Source: Immigration NZ AEWV Rules.

Why New Zealand Might Be Harder Than You Think

While the pay in New Zealand is good—averaging NZD $23.15 to $25.00 per hour for seasonal fruit picking—the barriers to entry are rising. Here are the main challenges for 2026:

• High Costs: Flights to New Zealand from Asia or Africa can cost over $1,500 USD.
• Strict Caps: The RSE visa is mostly reserved for workers from neighboring Pacific nations.
• Processing Times: Expect to wait 3 to 5 months for visa approval and employer matching.
• Housing Shortage: New Zealand faces a massive housing crisis, making it hard for seasonal workers to find affordable places to stay.

The European Alternative: Faster, Safer, and Closer

If you want to start working quickly, Mediterranean Europe offers a more realistic path. Countries like Spain, Malta, and Greece have massive labor shortages in tourism and agriculture. Unlike New Zealand, many European countries have "Circular Migration" programs designed specifically to help foreign workers get visas in weeks, not months.

Top European Destinations for 2026

If you are looking for Visa Sponsorship and Seasonal Work Europe, these three countries are currently the best options for foreign workers:

1. Malta

Malta is a top choice because English is an official language. The hospitality sector needs thousands of workers every summer. You can learn more in our Jobs in Malta with Visa Sponsorship: 2026 Guide. Pay for seasonal staff typically ranges from €1,100 to €1,500 per month, often with tips and housing included.

2. Greece

Greece has simplified its rules for seasonal workers in agriculture and tourism. The 2026 season is expected to be the busiest yet. Check our Summer Jobs in Greece: 2026 Guide for Foreign Workers for details on how to apply for the seasonal stay permit.

3. Spain

Spain's "GECCO" program allows for the collective hiring of foreign workers for seasonal roles. This is one of the fastest ways to get a legal work permit in the EU. See our Jobs in Spain: 2026 Guide for Foreign Workers to start your application.

How to Start Your Seasonal Work Search

Instead of struggling with the complex New Zealand points system or strict caps, use the MEUSEPF platform to connect with verified European employers. We focus on sectors with high visa approval rates, such as:

• Fruit picking and greenhouse work in Spain and Portugal.
• Hotel and restaurant staff in Malta and Greece.
• Delivery and logistics roles in Malta.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a seasonal visa cost?

In New Zealand, the RSE visa costs about NZD $700. In Europe, seasonal visa fees vary by country but generally range from €60 to €200. Many European employers also cover or subsidize these costs for the right candidates.

Do I need to speak the local language?

For New Zealand, you must speak English. In Europe, while English is enough for many roles in Malta or tourist hubs in Greece and Spain, learning basic phrases in the local language will help you get promoted faster.

Is accommodation provided?

In New Zealand's RSE program, employers must provide or arrange housing, but the cost is deducted from your pay. In Europe, many seasonal contracts in the hospitality and agriculture sectors include free or low-cost shared housing for Foreign Workers.

How fast can I start?

If you apply through MEUSEPF for a European role today, you could be working within 60 days. New Zealand applications often take twice as long due to the strict accreditation process for employers.