New Zealand’s immigration system is getting a powerful update to help employers fill critical labour gaps when it matters most.
Starting 8 December 2025, two brand-new visa pathways will be introduced under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework: the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV). These seasonal work visas are set to transform how Kiwi businesses access short-term labour, all while maintaining fairness and compliance. Source: New Zealand Immigration
🛠️ What Are the GWSV and PSV?
Both visas are tailored for seasonal roles that are affected by natural environmental peaks—such as harvest, winter tourism, or seafood processing seasons. These options allow accredited employers to tap into a global seasonal workforce without compromising immigration integrity.
🌐 Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)
Best for: Skilled seasonal workers
Visa length: Up to 3 years
Key requirements:
Applicants must have 3+ seasons of relevant experience in the past 6 years.
Must spend at least 3 months outside NZ each year.
No Labour Market Test required.
No English language requirement.
Visa holders can transition to other visa types.
🔧 GWSV-Eligible Roles:
Agricultural & Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator
Snow Groomer, Chairlift Operator
Mountain/Glacier Guide
Wine Maker, Winery Senior Cellar Hand
Outdoor Adventure Instructor
Whitewater Rafting Guide
Shearer, Slaughterer
Snow Sports Instructor
Primary Products Inspector
Tulip Grower
…and more!
🌿 Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)
Best for: Entry-level or lower-skilled seasonal workers
Visa length: Up to 7 months
Cooling period: 4-month break before reapplying
Key requirements:
1 season of relevant experience in the last 3 years
Must hold comprehensive health insurance
No English language test
Employers must engage with or be endorsed by Work and Income
🧤 PSV-Eligible Roles:
Mussel/Oyster Farm Worker
Calf Rearer, Relief Milker
Forestry Worker
Meat Boner, Slicer, or Processor
Seafood Process Worker
Wool Handler
Winery Cellar Hand
⚠️ Important Rules to Remember
No support for partners or dependents under either visa.
Job changes only within the same visa type are allowed.
Migrants switching from another visa (e.g., student or work visa) will retain interim work rights while their new seasonal visa is processed.
Seasonal roles must be genuine—aligned with industry peak periods and not used to fill permanent vacancies.