New Zealand is set to introduce two new visa categories designed to help industries meet workforce needs during busy seasons. The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) will launch on 8 December 2025 under the Accredited Employer Work Visa framework.
The government says the move will give accredited employers greater flexibility in hiring short-term staff while ensuring immigration rules remain consistent and fair. Both visas will apply to industries such as agriculture, horticulture, tourism, and food processing — sectors heavily affected by environmental and production cycles.
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa
The GWSV targets skilled seasonal workers and offers a visa validity of up to three years. To qualify, applicants must have worked in a relevant seasonal role for at least three seasons within the past six years.
Holders must spend a minimum of three months outside New Zealand each year to maintain eligibility. The visa does not require an English language test or Labour Market Test, and it allows workers to transition to other visa types if they meet the criteria.
Eligible occupations include agricultural and horticultural mobile plant operators, agricultural technicians, snow sports instructors, wine makers, outdoor adventure guides, shearers, slaughterers, and inspectors of primary products.
Peak Seasonal Visa
The PSV is designed for entry-level or lower-skilled seasonal roles and is valid for up to seven months. Applicants need at least one season of relevant work experience in the past three years and must hold comprehensive health insurance. After the seven-month period, they are required to take a four-month break before reapplying.
There is no English language requirement for this visa. Employers must be endorsed or engaged with Work and Income before hiring under the PSV.
Jobs covered under this category include mussel and oyster farm workers, calf rearers, forestry workers, meat processing staff, seafood processors, winery cellar hands, and wool handlers.
Not a Pathway to Permanent Residency
Holders of either visa cannot sponsor partners or dependent visas and may change employers only within the same visa type. Those switching from a student or work visa will keep interim work rights while their application is processed.
Officials have emphasized that these visas are intended solely to meet genuine seasonal demand, not as a substitute for filling permanent positions. Immigration authorities will review contract durations, industry cycles, and other indicators to ensure compliance and prevent misuse.
In summary, the introduction of the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and Peak Seasonal Visa is a targeted effort to address critical labor shortages during peak seasons, ensuring industries can operate efficiently without compromising the integrity of New Zealand’s immigration system.