New Zealand Unveils Flexible Seasonal Work Visas for Global Workforce

On December 8, 2025, New Zealand will open applications for two new seasonal work visas - the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) - under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework. These visas are designed to make it easier for accredited employers to hire workers for genuine seasonal roles while maintaining safeguards to prevent misuse.

The GWSV is intended for long-term seasonal work and allows visas of up to three years. Employers hiring under this category will not need to carry out a labor market test before recruiting internationally for approved roles. Applicants must have completed at least three seasons of relevant experience within the past six years and spend three months outside New Zealand each year.

The PSV is targeted at short-term peak periods, lasting up to seven months. Employers must advertise locally and show they have tried to hire New Zealanders before recruiting overseas. Applicants must have at least one season of relevant experience within the last three years.

All applicants for both visas must provide a job offer and signed employment agreement from an AEWV-accredited employer, clearly stating start and end dates, pay rate, hours, and location. They must also submit evidence of their seasonal work experience and demonstrate that their work pattern fits the seasonal requirements.