Two New Seasonal Visa Options Announced by Immigration New Zealand

What Counts as a Seasonal Role?

Seasonal roles are typically tied to peak periods in industries like agriculture, tourism, and food processing. INZ will assess whether a job is genuinely seasonal – looking at factors like duration and alignment with industry demand – to ensure these visas are used appropriately.

Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)

This visa is for skilled seasonal roles and allows workers to stay in New Zealand for up to 3 years. However, visa holders must spend at least 3 months outside New Zealand each year.

Key features:

• Requires 3 seasons of relevant experience in the past 6 years
• No English language requirement
• No Labour Market Test
• Employers must still complete a Job Check
• Visa holders can transition to other visa types
• Cannot support partner or dependent visas

Eligible roles:

• Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator
• Agricultural Technician (for example sheep or animal pregnancy scanner)
• Chairlift Operator
• Tulip Grower
• Thoroughbred Yearling Preparer
• Snow Groomer
• Mountain or 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)

This visa is for entry-level or lower-skilled seasonal roles and is valid for up to 7 months. After that, workers must leave New Zealand before applying again.


Key features:

• Requires at least 1 season of relevant experience in the past 3 years
• Must hold comprehensive health insurance
• No English language requirement
• Employers must be endorsed by or engage with Work and Income
• Change jobs within the same visa type
• Cannot support partner or dependent visas

Eligible roles:

• Mussel or Oyster Farm Worker
• Calf Rearer
• Relief Milker
• Forestry Worker
• Meat Boner and Slicer
• Meat Process Worker
• Seafood Process Worker
• Winery Cellar Hand
• Wool Handler

What Employers Need to Know

To support a worker under either visa, employers must:
• Be accredited under the AEWV scheme
• Complete a Job Check for the role
• Ensure the role meets the definition of seasonal work

Need Help Navigating These Changes?

If you're an employer looking to hire seasonal workers or a migrant exploring seasonal work opportunities, we can help you understand your options and assist with an application. Call 0508PATHWAYS today for and speak to a Pathways® licensed immigration adviser today!