As previously alluded, the Government has now confirmed further details of the two new seasonal visa pathways launching from the 8th of December 2025 to help accredited employers fill roles during peak seasonal demand. Both new visas options fall under the Accredited Employer Work Visa framework.
The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) is a 3-year visa for highly skilled seasonal workers and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) allows people to work for up to 7 months in roles such as meat, seafood processing and wool handling. Both visas are designed to help employers fill genuine short-term needs.
Here’s what you need to know:
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)
Length
Up to 3 years (with a requirement to spend at least 3 months outside New Zealand each year).
Who’s it for
- 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
Employer requirements
- No labour market test needed (no advertising required).
- Must be an accredited employer with an approved Job Check.
Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)
Length
Up to 7 months work in NZ, then 4 months offshore before reapplying.
Who’s it for
- 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
Employer requirements
- Must complete a labour market test (advertising), or be endorsed by Work and Income.
- Must be an accredited employer with an approved Job Check.
Key Points for Employers
- Both visas require accreditation and an approved Job Check before migrant workers can apply.
- INZ will check that employment agreements are genuinely seasonal as part of the Job Check.
- Visa applicants must meet the relevant experience requirements.
- These visas are designed to streamline hiring in industries with predictable seasonal peaks, reducing time-to-hire for eligible roles.
- Further details on application processes and full conditions will be released closer to launch.
If you’d like to understand how these changes could benefit your business and workforce planning, please get in touch with us today.
