In a major policy development aimed at strengthening New Zealand’s seasonal workforce, Immigration New Zealand has announced the launch of two new visa categories under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework. The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) will officially open for applications from December 8, 2025.

The new seasonal visas are designed to help accredited employers fill crucial short-term labour gaps in industries such as horticulture, agriculture, tourism, forestry, meat processing, seafood, and hospitality—sectors that rely heavily on seasonal workers.

According to New Zealand Immigration, the move will streamline recruitment processes while maintaining strict safeguards to ensure fairness, transparency, and compliance with immigration standards.

Why These New Seasonal Visas Matter

New Zealand’s seasonal industries face recurring labour shortages during peak periods. The introduction of the GWSV and PSV aims to:
  • Provide employers faster access to experienced seasonal workers
  • Reduce paperwork and processing delays
  • Strengthen labour supply consistency
  • Ensure regulatory oversight to prevent exploitation and system misuse
This balanced approach supports economic growth while protecting both job opportunities and worker welfare.

Key Details of the New Seasonal Visas

  1. Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)

This visa targets industries requiring long-term seasonal labour and offers significant benefits for employers and skilled seasonal workers. Key Features
  • No labour market test: Employers are not required to advertise the role locally.
  • Experience requirement: Applicants must show three seasons of relevant work experience within the last six years.
  • Residency rule: Workers must spend a minimum of three months outside New Zealand every year.
  • Visa validity: Up to three years, providing long-term stability.
  • Health & character checks: Mandatory for all applicants.
  • No English test required.
This visa is ideal for skilled seasonal workers who frequently return to New Zealand over consecutive years.

  1. Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)

The PSV is designed for short-term labour shortages during peak industry demand. Key Features
  • Labour market test required: Employers must first attempt to hire locally.
  • Experience requirement: At least one season of relevant work within the last three years.
  • Visa validity: Up to seven months, suitable for peak operational periods.
  • Mandatory health insurance: Required for roles longer than three months.
  • No English test required.
The PSV offers flexibility for employers needing temporary labour for shorter seasonal cycles.

Eligible Seasonal Occupations

Both visas apply to a wide range of seasonal jobs across multiple industries, including:
  • Mussel and oyster farm workers
  • Forestry workers
  • Calf rearers and relief milkers
  • Meat boners, slicers, and processing workers
  • Seafood process workers
  • Winery cellar hands
  • Wool handlers
These occupations are critical to New Zealand’s agricultural and production sectors, especially during harvesting and peak processing seasons.

What Applicants Must Prepare

To apply for the GWSV or PSV, candidates must gather and submit complete documentation, including:

Job Offer & Employment Agreement

Issued by an AEWV-accredited employer with clear details on:
  • Start and end dates
  • Pay rate
  • Guaranteed work hours
  • Job location

Proof of Seasonal Work Experience

Depending on the visa:
  • GWSV: At least 3 seasons in the past 6 years
  • PSV: At least 1 season in the past 3 years
Accepted evidence includes employer letters, payslips, tax records, rosters, or official certifications.

Evidence of Seasonality

  • GWSV: Must show 3-month absence from NZ annually
  • PSV: Must demonstrate a 4-month stand-down period between applications
Supporting documents may include flight itineraries or employer confirmations.

Health Insurance (PSV only, if staying over 3 months)

Insurance must cover: General care, emergency care, hospitalisation, specialists, prescriptions, follow-up treatments, and emergency evacuation.

Standard AEWV Requirements

  • Valid passport
  • Recent photograph
  • Medical and police certificates
  • Additional immigration forms, if requested
All GWSV applicants must complete full medical and character checks due to the 3-year visa validity.

What This Means for Workers and Employers

For employers, these visas bring simpler hiring pathways during peak seasons. For workers, they offer clearer rules, longer-term visa options, and reduced processing complexities. The initiative marks a significant step in strengthening New Zealand’s seasonal labour framework and supporting industries that are vital to the country’s economic cycle.

Stay Updated on New Zealand Immigration Changes

Seasonal visa policies are evolving rapidly. To stay informed about the latest updates, policy announcements, and visa opportunities, follow Apical Immigration Experts for real-time news and expert insights.

Ready to explore New Zealand’s new seasonal work opportunities? Get personalized guidance from our experienced visa consultants.
  • Book a FREE Consultation
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