Work Abroad
New Zealand has launched two innovative seasonal visa categories designed to address critical workforce shortages during peak operational periods. Starting December 8, 2025, applications open for the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework. These pathways enable international workers to access rewarding opportunities in agriculture, horticulture, tourism, hospitality, and adventure sports while experiencing life in one of the world’s most scenic nations.
For skilled professionals and entry-level workers alike, these visa options represent streamlined access to New Zealand’s thriving seasonal industries with reduced administrative barriers and clear eligibility requirements.
Understanding New Zealand’s New Seasonal Visa Pathways
Why New Zealand Is Recruiting International Seasonal Workers
New Zealand’s primary industries face persistent workforce deficits during critical seasonal peaks. These visas are designed to help accredited employers bring in workers for short-term roles driven by seasonal environmental peaks, particularly in sectors where domestic recruitment cannot meet operational demands.
The government aims to facilitate faster access to international talent while maintaining robust employment standards, worker protections, and immigration compliance measures.
The Two Seasonal Visa Categories Explained
1. Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) – For Skilled Seasonal Professionals
This visa is for skilled seasonal roles and is valid for up to 3 years, targeting experienced workers who return annually for specialized seasonal employment.
Key Features:
- Validity Period: Up to 3 years
- Experience Requirement: At least 3 seasons of relevant experience within the last 6 years
- Annual Departure: Must spend 3 months outside New Zealand each year
- Labour Market Test: Not required (employers don’t need to advertise locally first)
- English Language Test: Not required
- Health & Character Checks: Mandatory full medical and police clearance
- Health Insurance: Required if employment exceeds 3 months
Salary Range: NZD $45,000 – $85,000+ per year (depending on role and experience)
Eligible Roles Include:
- Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operators
- Agricultural Technicians (sheep/animal pregnancy scanners)
- Snow Sports Instructors
- Winemakers and Viticulturists
- Outdoor Adventure Guides
- Shearers
- Ski Patrol Officers
- Tourism and Hospitality Managers
2. Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) – For Entry-Level Seasonal Workers
This visa is for entry-level or lower-skilled seasonal roles and is valid for up to 7 months, designed for short-term peak periods requiring additional workforce capacity.
Key Features:
- Validity Period: Up to 7 months
- Experience Requirement: At least 1 season of relevant experience in the past 3 years
- Stand-Down Period: Must spend at least 4 months outside New Zealand before applying for another PSV
- Labour Market Test: Employers must first attempt to hire New Zealanders
- English Language Test: Not required
- Health Insurance: Required for any role lasting more than three months
- Work and Income Engagement: Employers must engage with or receive endorsement from Work and Income
Salary Range: NZD $28,000 – $45,000+ per year (depending on role and hours)
Eligible Roles Include:
- Fruit and Vegetable Pickers
- Packhouse Workers
- Mussel Farm Workers
- Calf Rearers
- Forestry Workers
- Meat Process Workers
- Winery Cellar Hands
- Kitchen Assistants
- Housekeepers
Eligibility Requirements
For Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV):
- Confirmed job offer from AEWV-accredited employer
- At least 3 seasons of relevant experience within the last 6 years
- Evidence demonstrating ability to spend 3 months annually outside New Zealand
- Valid passport from eligible country
- Full medical and character checks required, including police certificate
- Comprehensive health insurance (if role exceeds 3 months)
- Job must be on official GWSV job list
For Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV):
- Confirmed job offer from AEWV-accredited employer
- Minimum 1 season of relevant work experience within past 3 years
- Evidence of 4-month stand-down capability between PSV periods
- Valid passport from eligible country
- Health and character requirements
- Mandatory health insurance (for roles over 3 months)
- Job must be on official PSV job list
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
1. Verify Employer Accreditation
Ensure your prospective employer holds valid AEWV accreditation and has completed job check approval for seasonal roles.
2. Obtain Job Offer
Secure written employment agreement specifying:
- Job title and duties
- Work location
- Contract duration
- Salary and hours (minimum 30 hours weekly)
- Start and end dates
3. Gather Required Documentation
Essential Documents:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Police certificate (issued within past 24 months)
- Medical certificates (for GWSV or PSV roles over 3 months)
- Proof of seasonal work experience (employment letters, contracts, pay records)
- Evidence of seasonality patterns (travel plans, itineraries, dated timelines)
- Health insurance policy (if applicable)
- Employment agreement from accredited employer
4. Submit Online Application
Your employer must send you a link to the online application form. Complete the Immigration New Zealand online visa application with all supporting documents.
Application Fees:
- PSV: From NZD $1,540
- GWSV: Approximately NZD $1,800–$2,200
5. Await Processing
Processing times vary based on application completeness and individual circumstances. Interim visas may be issued for applicants already in New Zealand.
6. Receive eVisa and Travel
Upon approval, receive electronic visa with all conditions specified. Complete NZ Traveller Declaration, customs, and biosecurity requirements upon arrival.
Key Visa Conditions and Restrictions
Both GWSV and PSV holders:
- Cannot support partner or dependent visas
- Can only change jobs within the same visa type
- Must work only in approved jobs and locations
- Job changes require formal application and approval
- Must maintain valid health insurance (where applicable)
- Cannot use visa for permanent or year-round employment
Industries Offering Seasonal Employment
Agriculture & Horticulture
New Zealand’s primary sector experiences peak demands during planting, harvest, and processing seasons.
Peak Seasons:
- Fruit picking: November–May
- Viticulture: February–May
- Dairy support: August–November
Tourism & Hospitality
Summer and winter tourism peaks create substantial workforce requirements.
Peak Seasons:
- Summer tourism: December–February
- Winter sports: June–September
Wine Industry
Vintage and harvest periods require specialized and general workers.
Peak Season: February–April
Adventure Tourism
Outdoor activities and guided experiences peak during optimal weather conditions.
Peak Seasons: Year-round with seasonal variations by activity
Benefits of New Zealand Seasonal Work Visas
For Workers:
- Simplified application process with reduced bureaucracy
- No English language testing required
- Multi-year validity (GWSV) allows seasonal return
- Competitive wages with proper employment protections
- Experience New Zealand’s renowned lifestyle and landscapes
- Build industry relationships and professional networks
- Potential pathway to longer-term visa options
For Employers:
- Faster access to skilled seasonal workers
- Reduced labour market testing requirements (GWSV)
- Ability to rehire proven seasonal workers
- Support during critical operational periods
Top Regions for Seasonal Employment
Bay of Plenty & Hawke’s Bay: Major horticultural regions (kiwifruit, apples, grapes)
Marlborough: Wine industry hub requiring vintage workers
Canterbury & Otago: Ski fields and adventure tourism
Southland: Dairy and agricultural operations
Northland: Subtropical horticulture and aquaculture
Tips for Successful Application
Start Early: Begin preparations at least 4–6 months before intended travel date.
Document Everything: Maintain comprehensive records of previous seasonal employment, including dates, duties, and employer references.
Demonstrate Seasonality: Provide clear evidence (travel bookings, employment cycles, accommodation arrangements) showing your ability to meet stand-down requirements.
Choose Reputable Employers: Research employers’ accreditation status and compliance history through Immigration New Zealand’s official register.
Secure Health Insurance Early: Obtain compliant insurance policy before application submission for roles exceeding 3 months.
Maintain Valid Documents: Ensure passport validity extends beyond visa period and police certificates are current.
Be Application-Ready: Have all documents translated to English and certified where necessary.
Where to Find Legitimate Seasonal Jobs
Official Platforms:
- Immigration New Zealand Jobs Portal
- Seasonal Jobs NZ (government-supported)
- Backpacker Board
- Pick NZ
Industry-Specific Resources:
- NZ Wine Growers Association
- Horticulture New Zealand
- Tourism Industry Aotearoa
Accredited Employer Databases:
Check Immigration New Zealand’s official list of AEWV-accredited employers to verify legitimacy.
Important Reminders
Application Opens: December 8, 2025
Replaces: The previous Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) for seasonal roles is discontinued for new applications after December 8, 2025.
No Scam Fees: Legitimate employers and Immigration New Zealand never charge recruitment fees to workers. Avoid paying any third-party agencies claiming to guarantee visa approval.
Plan for Stand-Down Periods: Budget for mandatory time outside New Zealand between visa periods.
Final Thoughts
New Zealand’s introduction of the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and Peak Seasonal Visa from December 8, 2025, represents exceptional opportunities for international workers seeking seasonal employment in world-class industries and environments. With streamlined application processes, competitive compensation, and strong worker protections, these visas provide accessible pathways to experience New Zealand while contributing valuable skills to critical sectors.
Whether you’re a seasoned agricultural professional, adventure tourism specialist, or entry-level worker seeking international experience, New Zealand’s new seasonal visa framework offers structured, legitimate opportunities to work, earn, and explore one of the planet’s most beautiful countries.
For complete application details, official job lists, and accredited employer verification, visit the Immigration New Zealand website at www.immigration.govt.nz.