Making voluntary deductions
If you are working in New Zealand on a Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Limited Visa you can give your employer permission to deduct money from your pay to cover some costs.
Note
Improvements were made to the RSE scheme on 2 September 2024. Learn more about what these changes mean for RSE employers and workers.
Costs that can be deducted from your pay
If you are a seasonal worker on an RSE Limited Visa you can give your employer permission to deduct money from your pay to cover costs like:
- your share of the cost of travelling to New Zealand
- living expenses such as accommodation, food and electricity
- health costs and insurance.
Giving permission for deductions
Your employer can only make deductions if:
- you have given written consent for the deductions — without pressure from your employer
- they are clearly listed in your employment agreement
- we approved them when your employer submitted their Approval to Recruit
- they are fair and reasonable, and used to cover actual expenses — for example, a deduction for accommodation covers the actual cost of your employer providing a suitable place for you to live.
Withdrawing permission
You can withdraw by giving your employer notice in writing.
Your employer must vary or stop the deductions within 2 weeks of getting notice from you, or as soon as it is practical to make the changes.