New Seasonal Visa Pathways to Help Employers Meet Peak Workforce Needs

The New Zealand Government has announced the introduction of two new seasonal visa pathways under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework. These visas aim to help accredited employers access more workers during peak seasonal activity periods while ensuring fair and consistent immigration settings.

Both visas will be available from 8 December 2025.

Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)

Purpose: For highly skilled seasonal roles.

Visa Length: Up to 3 years.

Requirements for Applicants:

• At least 3 seasons of relevant work experience in the last 6 years.

• A job offer in an eligible seasonal role.

• Meet standard health and character requirements.

• Spend at least 3 months outside New Zealand each year.

Employer Requirements:

• Must be accredited and have an approved Job Check for a seasonal role.

• No Labour Market Test or English language requirement.

Eligible Roles Include: Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator, Agricultural Technician (e.g., sheep or animal pregnancy scanner), Shearer, Winemaker, Snow Sports Instructor, Chairlift Operator, Mountain or Glacier Guide, Outdoor Adventure Instructor, Primary Products Inspector, and more.

Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)

Purpose: For entry-level or lower-skilled seasonal roles.

Visa Length: Up to 7 months, followed by a mandatory 4-month break before reapplying.

Requirements for Applicants:

• At least 1 season of relevant experience in the last 3 years.

• A job offer in an eligible seasonal role.

• Hold comprehensive health insurance if staying for more than 3 months.

Employer Requirements:

• Must be accredited and have an approved Job Check for a seasonal role.

• Must complete a Labour Market Test or be formally endorsed by Work and Income.

Eligible Roles Include: Mussel or Oyster Farm Worker, Calf Rearer, Relief Milker, Forestry Worker, Meat Process Worker, Seafood Process Worker, Winery Cellar Hand, Wool Handler, and more.

Key Points for Both Visas:

• Visa holders cannot support partner or dependent visas.

• They can only change jobs within the same visa type.

• Applicants switching from a student or work visa will retain interim work rights while their new application is processed.

• Immigration New Zealand will verify that all roles are genuinely seasonal and tied to peak industry demand — these visas are not designed for permanent roles.

If you are an employer seeking seasonal staff or a worker interested in applying for one of these visas, preparation is key. Employers should ensure they are accredited and ready to lodge Job Checks in line with these new pathways.