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WELLINGTON — The New Zealand government has announced two new visa categories under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework, aimed at easing seasonal workforce shortages across key industries. The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) will be available from 8 December 2025.
The GWSV targets skilled seasonal workers with at least three seasons of relevant experience in the past six years. Valid for up to three years, it allows visa holders to return annually, provided they spend a minimum of three months outside New Zealand each year. The visa does not require a Labour Market Test or proof of English language proficiency.
The PSV is designed for entry-level or lower-skilled seasonal roles and offers a stay of up to seven months. Applicants must have completed at least one season of relevant work in the past three years and hold comprehensive health insurance. A four-month stand-down period applies before reapplication.
Both visas are intended to support industries such as agriculture, horticulture, tourism, and food processing, which face peak-period labour demands. Immigration officials will assess applications to ensure roles align with genuine seasonal needs. Neither visa provides a pathway to permanent residency or allows sponsorship of dependents.
Officials say the initiative will help accredited employers recruit short-term staff while maintaining fair and transparent immigration standards.
New Zealand Auckland Skyline by falco (pixabay.com)
