DILI, 21 October 2025 (TATOLI) — The Secretariat of State for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE), through the National Directorate for External Employment (DNEE), has announced that 2,186 candidates have advanced to the interview stage of New Zealand’s Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme.
Out of 20,859 online applicants, the shortlisted candidates successfully passed the document verification process.
SEFOPE Director-General Carlito Rosário Cabral said in a press conference that the recruitment process took place from September 8 to 12, 2025, allowing Timorese citizens to apply online.
“The interviews are designed to assess the candidates’ English proficiency so we can prepare a shortlist for potential employers,” Cabral said on Monday at SEFOPE’s office.
Of the 2,186 qualified applicants, 1,531 are men and 640 are women. The candidates come from all municipalities, including Aileu (135), Ainaro (165), Atauro (8), Baucau (260), Bobonaro (199), Covalima (128), and Dili (327). Other municipalities include Ermera (151), Lautém (211), Liquiça (58), Manatuto (107), Manufahi (70), Oecusse (33), and Viqueque (329).
Meanwhile, 18,688 applicants did not pass the initial screening due to incomplete or falsified documents, or failure to meet the required age criteria.
The interviews will be conducted by SEFOPE, while the final selection of workers will be made by New Zealand employers.
The RSE program offers Timorese workers the opportunity to undertake seasonal employment in New Zealand under contracts lasting six to seven months, contributing to skills development and income generation for local families.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
