New Zealand Seasonal Work Visas Launch Dec 2025

The New Zealand government has announced the launch of two new seasonal work visa categories under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework, aimed at tackling peak workforce shortages across industries such as agriculture, horticulture, tourism, forestry, and food processing.

Starting December 8, 2025, employers will be able to hire overseas workers through the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV). The move replaces the existing Specific Purpose Work Visa used for seasonal hiring.

Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)

• Valid for up to three years with multiple entry rights.
• Applicants must have at least three seasons of prior work experience in the last six years.
• No English language requirement or labour market test.
• Holders must spend a minimum of three months outside New Zealand each year.
• Eligible for publicly funded healthcare.
• Intended for skilled seasonal roles, including agricultural technicians, mountain guides, winemakers, and primary products inspectors.

Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)

• Valid for up to seven months, followed by a four-month stand-down before reapplication.
• Requires at least one season of work experience in the last three years.
• Employers must be endorsed by or engage with Work and Income.
• Applicants must have comprehensive health insurance.
• Not eligible for public healthcare or dependent sponsorship.
• Targeted at entry-level seasonal jobs, such as seafood processing, meat plant operations, forestry work, and wool handling.

Immigration Minister [Name] stated the new visa categories will give accredited employers greater flexibility to respond to seasonal demand while ensuring fair treatment of migrant workers. “We are modernising our approach to seasonal employment by introducing a framework that is both responsive to industry needs and mindful of worker welfare,” the Minister said.

The changes will operate alongside the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, which remains dedicated to workers from Pacific nations.

Applications for both visas will open on December 8, 2025 through Immigration New Zealand’s online portal.