Relocate and Work in New Zealand via Farm Work Scheme: Requirements, Visa Sponsorship & How to Apply

    The New Zealand farm work has become one of the most practical and affordable ways for foreign workers to relocate, secure stable income, and gain long-term job opportunities in the country.

    Many people want a simple path into New Zealand, and agricultural jobs create exactly that opening. You get hands-on experience, competitive pay, visa sponsorship options, and the chance to build a life in one of the safest countries in the world.

    Demand for skilled and unskilled farm workers keeps rising. Farms struggle to find enough local labor, which means international workers like you are needed more than ever.

    The New Zealand farm work program attracts applicants who want work stability, transparent requirements, and a pathway to longer stays.

    This guide breaks down everything you must know so you can make informed decisions and avoid rejection. You’ll see the requirements, visa types, sponsorship options, and the correct application steps.

    What Is the New Zealand Farm Work Program?

    The New Zealand farm work program is a structured pathway that connects foreigners who want to work in the country to government-approved agricultural employers to hire.

    These employers recruit for roles such as:

    • Dairy farm assistants

    • Fruit pickers

    • Orchard workers

    • Vineyard hands

    • Livestock farm workers

    • Seasonal packhouse staff

    You gain work experience, earn regular income, and receive legal permission to stay in the country.

      Send in Application

      Why the New Zealand Farm Work Program Is So Popular

      The New Zealand farm work program is popular because it offers:

      • Visa sponsorship opportunities

      • No degree requirement for most roles

      • High demand across agriculture

      • Competitive wages

      • Clear immigration rules

      • Pathways to residency for some roles

      • Low entry barriers

      • Safe working conditions

      Types of Visas Under the New Zealand Farm Work Program

      Several visa options support the New Zealand farm work program, including:

      1. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

      This is the main visa for long-term farm jobs. Employers must be accredited, and they can sponsor you if they can’t find local workers.

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      2. Seasonal Worker Visa (RSE Scheme)

      This option is ideal for fruit picking, harvesting, and orchard work. Contracts usually last up to 7 months per year.

      3. Working Holiday Visa

      This works well for younger applicants who want short-term farm work. Not all nationalities qualify, but it’s flexible.

      4. Partnership-Based Visa

      If your spouse or partner works under the New Zealand farm work program, you can apply to join them.

      Requirements for the New Zealand Farm Work Program

      You must meet basic requirements before applying. These include:

      • A valid passport

      • Proof of good health

      • Clean criminal record

      • Ability to work in physically demanding roles

      • Basic English communication skills

      • Job offer from an accredited farm employer

      • Evidence of experience (optional but helpful)

      Countries Eligible for the New Zealand Farm Work Program

      The New Zealand farm work program accepts applicants from many regions.

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      Eligibility depends on the employer’s preferences and visa type. Countries commonly hired include:

      • India

      • Philippines

      • South Africa

      • Fiji

      • Kenya

      • Nigeria

      • Brazil

      • Indonesia

      • Vietnam

      • Malaysia

      Note: Seasonal visas have specific country lists, but employers hiring under the AEWV can recruit from almost anywhere.

      Do You Need Job Experience?

      Many roles in the New Zealand farm work program do not require previous experience.

      However, dairy farm employers prefer applicants who understand basic farm operations. If you have experience in harvesting, livestock handling, or farm machinery, you stand out.

      Skills That Increase Your Chances

      These skills give you an advantage:

      • Basic animal care

      • Milking procedures

      • Operation of tractors or farm tools

      • Ability to work outdoors

      • Teamwork

      • Reliability and time management

      How Much You Can Earn

      Pay rates vary by employer and region. Most farm roles fall within:

      • NZD $23 to $29 per hour

      • Overtime during peak seasons

      • Free or discounted on-farm accommodation

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      Some dairy farms offer annual contracts worth NZD $48,000 to $65,000 for full-time workers

      Benefits of the New Zealand Farm Work Program

      The New Zealand farm work program comes with several advantages:

      • Legal employment

      • Visa sponsorship

      • Safe working environment

      • New skills

      • Employer-provided housing

      • Long-term employment potential

      • A pathway to residence if you qualify

      • Affordable cost of living in rural areas

      The program is one of the easiest relocation paths for workers without advanced degrees.

      How to Apply for the New Zealand Farm Work Program

      Here is the step-by-step process:

      1. Search for Accredited Employers

      Look for farms that can hire foreign workers under the New Zealand farm work program. These employers appear on official lists and job boards.

      2. Prepare Your Resume

      Use a simple, clear CV. Include:

      • Work experience

      • Skills

      • Certifications

      • Farm-related exposure

      3. Apply Directly

      Contact employers through email or job portals. Include your CV and a short introductory message.

      4. Attend Interviews

      Most interviews happen online. Employers check your availability, skills, and willingness to relocate.

      5. Receive a Job Offer

      Once selected, the employer issues an official job offer. This is required for your visa application.

      6. Submit Your Visa Application

      Provide all documents, including:

      • Passport

      • Police certificate

      • Medical results

      • Job offer

      • Proof of funds (if required)

      7. Travel to New Zealand

      After visa approval, arrange your travel. The employer guides you through accommodation, orientation, and job duties.

      Top Sectors Within the New Zealand Farm Work Program

      You can choose from several areas:

      • Dairy farming

      • Sheep and beef farming

      • Horticulture

      • Fruit picking

      • Vineyard operations

      • Seedling and nursery work

      Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about New Zealand Farm Work Program 2026

      1. Who can apply for the New Zealand farm work program?

      Applicants from most countries can apply, especially under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). Eligibility depends on the employer and visa type.

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      2. Do I need previous farm experience?

      No. Many roles require only physical fitness and a willingness to learn. Experience increases your chances but is not mandatory.

      3. What visas are available?

      Common options include the AEWV, Seasonal Worker Visa, and Working Holiday Visa. Some partner visas are also applicable.

      4. Can I get visa sponsorship?

      Yes. Accredited farm employers can sponsor your visa if local labor is unavailable.

      5. How long do contracts last?

      Seasonal work lasts 3–7 months, while dairy or long-term farm roles may extend to 12 months or more.

      6. Can I bring my family?

      Some visa types allow dependents. Check AEWV and partner visa rules for eligibility.

      7. Is English fluency required?

      Basic communication is sufficient for most farm roles. Clear understanding of instructions is essential.

      8. What is the pay like?

      Farm work usually pays NZD $23–$29 per hour. Some farms provide free or discounted accommodation.

      9. Do farms provide accommodation?

      Many farms offer shared housing, especially for seasonal and rural positions. Always confirm before applying.

      10. Can farm work lead to residency?

      Certain skilled and long-term farm roles may count toward New Zealand residency. Seasonal positions typically do not.

      Conclusion

      The New Zealand farm work program provides a practical route for relocation, stable work, and income growth.

      You get the chance to work in a peaceful environment while strengthening your skills. Many employers offer visa sponsorship, making the journey even smoother.

      If you want a clear path to begin a new life, agricultural jobs in New Zealand offer one of the most accessible options.

      The requirements are simple, the process is transparent, and demand continues to rise.

      You can join a dairy farm, orchard, vineyard, or horticulture operation and build a stable career.

      The New Zealand farm work program remains one of the easiest ways to enter the country legally, start earning quickly, and explore long-term opportunities.

      Mira Stuart helps people find jobs and move abroad with clear advice on visas, work options, and relocation. She makes the process simple and easy to understand.

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