New Zealand Unveils Two Seasonal Work Visas Launching December 8, 2025 — Here’s Who Can Apply And What’s New
- Mati Lio
- Sep 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 17
⚠️ Important: These visas will only open for applications on December 8, 2025. They are not available before this date.
New Zealand has confirmed two new seasonal work visas under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework — the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) — opening December 8, 2025. They’re designed to help accredited employers cover short-term, peak-season roles across industries like agriculture, food processing, forestry, aquaculture, wine, and alpine tourism, while keeping settings consistent and fair.
The Two Visas at a Glance
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) — for skilled seasonal roles; valid up to 3 years. Applicants must have worked at least 3 seasons in a relevant role within the past 6 years and must spend at least 3 months outside New Zealand each year. No labour market test or English requirement. Examples of roles include winemaker, chairlift operator, mountain/glacier guide, shearer, snow sports instructor, and more. Visa holders cannot support partner/dependent visas and can change jobs only within the same visa type.
Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) — for entry-level or lower-skilled seasonal roles; valid up to 7 months, after which holders must take a 4-month break before reapplying. Requires at least 1 season of recent relevant experience and comprehensive health insurance for visas over three months; employers must engage with Work and Income. Examples include meat/seafood processing, calf-rearing, forestry, wool handling, and winery cellar roles. No English requirement; dependents are not supported.
📌 Reminder: Application starts on December 8, 2025. Please don’t apply before then.
Who is eligible?
New Zealand’s announcement does not restrict eligibility by nationality. As with other AEWV-based pathways, eligibility hinges on a job offer from an accredited employer, meeting experience requirements for the visa stream, and passing health and character checks. Citizens of Nigeria and other countries can apply if they meet these conditions. You can verify an employer’s accreditation using Immigration New Zealand’s accredited employer list.
How These Differ From The Existing RSE Scheme
The Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Limited Visa remains separate, covering horticulture and viticulture for up to 7 months in any 11-month period with approved RSE employers. The new GWSV/PSV options broaden seasonal coverage to additional sectors and are processed under AEWV settings.
What Applicants Should Do Now
Confirm your role fits a seasonal pathway (see INZ’s role lists within each visa announcement).
Line up a job offer from an accredited employer and ensure a job check has been completed for the seasonal role (employer action).
Prepare evidence of seasonal experience (GWSV = 3 seasons in 6 years; PSV = 1 recent season) and budget for travel gaps (GWSV offshore requirement; PSV 4-month stand-down).
Arrange comprehensive health insurance if applying for PSV beyond 3 months.
Read this detailed, step-by-step guide to learn how to apply for New Zealand work visa
Frequently Asked Questions About New Zealand Seasonal Work Visas
1. Can I apply now?
👉 No. Applications will only open on December 8, 2025.
2. Where can I apply?
👉 Only on Immigration New Zealand’s official website: immigration.govt.nz
⚠️ Be careful: Do not pay money to anyone claiming early access.
3. Do I need a job first?
👉 Yes. You must have a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
4. Can anyone apply?
👉 People from any country can apply, but you must meet the visa’s work experience, health, and character requirements.
5. Can I apply without skills or experience?
👉 No.
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV): At least 3 seasons in the last 6 years.
Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV): At least 1 recent season of work.
6. Can my family come with me?
👉 No. These visas do not allow you to bring a partner or children.
👉 Looking Beyond Seasonal Work?
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Disclaimer
This article summarizes information published by the New Zealand Government and Immigration New Zealand. Immigration settings can change without notice. This is not legal advice. Always check the official links below and consider consulting a licensed immigration adviser before applying.
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