Aug262025

Update Overview

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has unveiled two new seasonal visa pathways to assist accredited employers in meeting workforce shortages during peak demand periods. These visas effective from 8 December 2025 are part of the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework and are designed to support short-term, seasonal employment across multiple industries.

Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)

The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa is aimed at skilled seasonal positions and allows workers to remain in New Zealand for up to 3 years. However, visa holders must spend at least 3 months outside New Zealand each year.

Key highlights:

  • Requires 3 seasons of relevant work experience within the last 6 years

  • No English language test required

  • No labour market test

  • Employers must still complete a Job Check

  • Visa holders can later transition to other visa types

  • Does not allow partner or dependent visas

Eligible occupations include:

  • Agricultural & Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator

  • Agricultural Technician (e.g., animal or pregnancy scanner)

  • Chairlift Operator

  • Tulip Grower

  • Thoroughbred Yearling Preparer

  • Snow Groomer

  • Mountain/Glacier Guide

  • Outdoor Adventure Instructor

  • Primary Products Inspector

  • Shearer

  • Slaughterer

  • Snow Sports Instructor

  • Snow Maker

  • Snowsport Equipment Technician

  • Whitewater Rafting Guide

  • Wine Maker

  • Winery Senior Cellar Hand

Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)

The Peak Seasonal Visa targets entry-level or lower-skilled jobs during busy seasonal periods. It is valid for up to 7 months, after which applicants must leave New Zealand before applying again.

Key highlights:

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

  • Must hold comprehensive health insurance

  • No English language requirement

  • Employers must be endorsed by or work with Work and Income

  • Flexibility to change employers within the same visa type

  • No partner or dependent visa eligibility

Eligible occupations include:

  • Mussel or Oyster Farm Worker

  • Calf Rearer

  • Relief Milker

  • Forestry Worker

  • Meat Boner & Slicer

  • Meat Process Worker

  • Seafood Process Worker

  • Winery Cellar Hand

  • Wool Handler

What Employers Should Know

To employ migrants under either visa, businesses must:

  • Be accredited under the AEWV scheme – List here

  • Complete a Job Check for the seasonal role

  • Ensure the position meets INZ’s definition of seasonal work

Need Expert Guidance?

At SOL Edu & Migration Services, we make seasonal visa applications simple. Whether you’re an employer needing staff or a worker exploring opportunities, our licensed advisers can guide you through every step.

📞 Contact us today to get started with your New Zealand seasonal visa.