Status: In force
Immigration New Zealand has introduced a structured accommodation cost framework establishing weekly rent caps ranging from NZD $150 to $211 based on housing quality standards. These rules apply to all Agreement to Recruit applications submitted from April 2026 onwards.
What this means in practice
The framework establishes clear boundaries for Recognised Seasonal Employers recovering worker accommodation expenses. Weekly rent caps are tiered between NZD $150 and $211 depending on the specific quality standards of the housing provided. These caps cover rent and running costs, but exclude food expenses. Employers are permitted to recover actual and reasonable costs incurred, ensuring deductions remain transparent and compliant. Annual Consumer Price Index indexing is scheduled to commence in March 2027.
Who should check this
This update applies to Recognised Seasonal Employers preparing recruitment cycles and workforce logistics, as well as RSE workers seeking clarity on allowable accommodation deductions.
Practical checklist
- Review existing worker accommodation facilities against official quality tiers to determine correct cost cap placement.
- Verify that internal accounting and payroll systems calculate cost recovery based on actual and reasonable expenses excluding food.
- Align forthcoming Agreement to Recruit submissions with the April 2026 accommodation framework.
- Prepare administrative processes for annual Consumer Price Index indexing adjustments taking effect in March 2027.
Important limits or current position
Employers are prohibited from recovering accommodation costs that exceed actual expenses or charging fees outside the established framework. This guidance reflects current operational rules and does not alter core RSE visa eligibility or border entry requirements.
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This article is general information, not individual immigration advice.
Source note: Source: Immigration New Zealand, Framework and guidance now available for RSE worker accommodation cost changes, published 28 January 2026 (Status: In force) [1].
[1] Immigration New Zealand, Framework and guidance now available for RSE worker accommodation cost changes, official announcement, published 28 January 2026, Open source on immigration.govt.nz ↗