New Zealand is introducing new seasonal work visas designed to better support industries experiencing labour shortages during peak periods. These changes aim to give accredited employers more flexibility while offering overseas workers additional short-term opportunities to work in New Zealand.
However — while these visas open doors, they also come with specific rules, eligibility criteria, and strict limitations that applicants must understand clearly before making plans.
This blog breaks down the changes, key opportunities, and important cautions for workers and employers.
New Zealand continues to experience workforce pressure in sectors such as:
The new seasonal visa options aim to fill predictable, repeat labour shortages during high-demand months without committing long-term immigration pathways.
| Visa Type | Validity | Best For | Experience Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) | Up to 3 years (with breaks) | Skilled seasonal roles | Typically 3 relevant seasons in last 6 years |
| Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) | Up to 7 months | Entry-level seasonal or high-demand labour roles | Usually 1 season in last 3 years |
These visas are tied to the employer’s accreditation status. Only accredited employers can hire under these pathways.
These visas are suitable for individuals who:
For applicants hoping to settle permanently, these visas should be viewed only as temporary opportunities — not migration pathways.
Before applying, migrants should consider the following:
Neither visa leads to permanent residence or long-term settlement. Those aiming for residency should not treat these as shortcuts.
Depending on the visa type, workers may need to spend time outside New Zealand before returning for another seasonal term.
Most seasonal visas do not allow dependants to accompany the worker.
If the employer is not accredited, the job cannot support these visas.
Seasonal contracts must clearly specify:
Many applicants underestimate contract requirements — leading to delays or declined applications.
Employers intending to hire under these new pathways must:
Compliance monitoring is expected to increase — employers should expect more scrutiny, not less.
These visas are beneficial for:
They are not suited for individuals seeking:
The introduction of these seasonal visa pathways reflects a shift toward targeted short-term labour solutions rather than broad migration options.
If you are considering applying, it is essential to understand:
A rushed or poorly understood application can lead to disappointment or a refusal — especially when expectations do not align with immigration intent.
At Immigration Advisers New Zealand Ltd, we assist applicants and employers with:
Book a consultation if you have a job offer today.
Vandana Rai is a Senior Licensed Immigration Adviser and has built a reputation around her rare set of skills, which could be considered ideal for her legal profession.