New Zealand’s Global Workforce Seasonal Visa & Peak Workforce Visa: What You Need to Know
Introduction
New Zealand’s seasonal industries such as agriculture, horticulture, adventure tourism, and food processing often require extra hands during peak periods. To address these needs, two new visa pathways have been introduced: the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)and the Peak Workforce Visa (PSV). These visas are designed to make it easier for employers to recruit experienced seasonal workers, while ensuring fair standards and clear processes for applicants.
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)
The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa is tailored for experienced seasonal workers who have completed at least three seasons of relevant work in the past six years. Key features include:
No Labour Market Test: Employers do not need to prove they have tried to recruit New Zealanders before applying for a Job Check.
Visa Duration: Successful applicants may be granted a visa for up to three years, based on an upfront employment agreement for one season.
Mandatory Breaks: Visa holders must spend three months outside New Zealand for each year of their visa.
No English Language Requirement: Applicants are not required to meet English language standards.
No Support for Partners or Dependants: Holders cannot support visas for partners or children.
Health and Character Checks: Medical and chest X-ray certificates are required, regardless of the intended length of stay.
Peak Workforce Visa (PSV)
The Peak Workforce Visa is designed for those with at least one season of relevant work experience within the last three years. It is ideal for industries with short, intense periods of labour demand. Key features include:
Labour Market Test or Endorsement: Employers advertise the role and engage with Work and Income.
Visa Duration: The visa can be granted for up to seven months.
Medical Insurance: Required if employment is for more than three months.
Mandatory Breaks: After seven months, visa holders must spend four months outside New Zealand before reapplying.
No English Language Requirement: As with the GWSV, no English test is required.
No Support for Partners or Dependants: Holders cannot support visas for partners or children.
Occupations Covered
Both visas are available only for roles listed on New Zealand’s official List of Seasonal Occupations. These include:
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa Occupations
Agricultural Technician
Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator
Shearers
Wine Makers
Winery Senior Cellar Hand
Tulip Growers (for large-scale, commercial growers, December–February)
Mountain or Glacier Guide
Whitewater Rafting Guide
Outdoor Adventure Instructor
Snow Groomer
Ski Technician and Surfboard Maker
Peak Workforce Visa Occupations
Snow Sports Instructor
Primary Products Inspectors
Chairlift Operator
Snow Maker
Thoroughbred Yearling Preparer (August–March, for registered breeders)
Slaughterer
Meat Process Worker
Seafood Process Worker
Winery Cellar Hand
Wool Handler
Forestry Worker
Dairy Cattle Farm Worker (Calf Rearer and Relief Milker)
Meat Boner and Slicer
Mussel Oyster Farm Worker
How to Apply
Employer Accreditation: Employers must be accredited under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme and have an approved Job Check for the relevant seasonal occupation.
Job Offer: Applicants need a genuine job offer matching the occupation and requirements listed.
Supporting Documents: Medical certificates, proof of experience, and (for PSV) medical insurance if required.
No Family Support: Applicants cannot bring partners or children on dependent visas.
What Does This Mean for Employers and Workers?
For Employers: The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa offers a streamlined process for hiring experienced seasonal workers, while the Peak Workforce Visa maintains a focus on local recruitment but allows for endorsement where shortages are acute.
For Workers: These visas provide clear pathways to contribute to New Zealand’s economy, with defined periods of work and mandatory breaks outside the country.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and Peak Workforce Visa marks a significant shift in how New Zealand manages its seasonal workforce needs. By focusing on experience, streamlining employer requirements, and targeting specific occupations, these pathways aim to balance industry demand with fair and transparent immigration processes.
If you have questions about eligibility, application steps, or specific occupations, it’s best to consult the official Immigration New Zealand resources or speak to a licensed immigration adviser.