In a strategic move to address persistent labour shortages and support key industries during peak seasons, the New Zealand Government has announced two new seasonal work visa pathways under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework. These visas—the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)—are set to become available from 8 December 2025, offering tailored solutions for both skilled and entry-level seasonal roles.
Why These Visas Matter
Seasonal industries such as agriculture, horticulture, winemaking, and snow sports are vital to New Zealand’s economy. However, they often struggle to find enough local workers during peak periods. The new visa pathways aim to ease this pressure while ensuring that opportunities for New Zealanders remain a priority.
“These visas are designed to reflect the realities of seasonal work and the diverse range of skill levels involved,” said Immigration Minister Erica Stanford. “They’ll help fill critical roles in industries where employers struggle to find enough New Zealand workers at peak times”.
1. Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)
Who it’s for: Highly experienced seasonal workers in skilled roles
Duration: Up to 3 years
Key features:
- Workers must have completed at least 3 seasons in a relevant role within the past 6 years.
- Must spend at least 3 months offshore each year.
- Eligible for publicly funded healthcare.
- No Labour Market Test or English language requirement.
- Eligible roles include:
- Agricultural Technician
- Snow Sports Instructor
- Winemaker
- Outdoor Adventure Instructor
- Shearer and Slaughterer
This visa allows skilled workers to return for multiple seasons, helping employers maintain continuity and expertise in their workforce.
2. Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)
Who it’s for: Entry-level or lower-skilled seasonal workers
Duration: Up to 7 months
Key features:
- Requires at least 1 season of relevant experience in the past 3 years.
- Must take a 4-month break before reapplying.
- No English language requirement.
- Must hold comprehensive health insurance.
- Employers must engage with Work and Income to prioritize Kiwi workers.
- Eligible roles include:
- Calf Rearer
- Mussel or Oyster Farm Worker
- Meat Process Worker
- Wool Handler
- Winery Cellar Hand
This visa is designed to support industries with short-term, high-demand roles that are difficult to fill locally.
Additional Notes
- ATTENTION: Visa holders under both pathways cannot support partner or dependents.
- They may only change jobs within the same visa type.
- Applicants transitioning from other visas retain interim work rights during processing.
Policy Response to Seasonal Workforce Challenges
The introduction of these visas reflects a more nuanced and flexible immigration strategy, balancing economic growth with the protection of local employment opportunities. By streamlining access to experienced seasonal workers while maintaining fair immigration settings, the Government hopes to keep New Zealand’s seasonal industries thriving.
Whether you’re an employer navigating seasonal workforce planning or a migrant exploring new visa opportunities, Woburn International is here to help. Our team of immigration and relocation experts can guide you through the new visa pathways, ensure compliance, and help you make the most of these changes. Get in touch today to discuss how we can support your goals in New Zealand.
Contact us
If you would like to know more about your options in New Zealand, email us at services@woburn.co.nz
Woburn International is New Zealand’s leading specialist in NZ immigration, skilled migrant placements, relocation, emigration, international remuneration and cultural awareness. Contact us to find out how we can help you move to New Zealand.
