New Zealand (INZ) has announced the launch of two new seasonal visa categories under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework.
The new visas are the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV), which will enable accredited employers to hire workers for seasonal roles while maintaining strict checks to prevent misuse. Most of the conditions for these visas mirror those of the AEWV. However, applicants who wish to change any visa conditions will need to apply for a Job Change.
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)
The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) is designed for workers engaged in long-term seasonal employment. A major benefit for employers is that they do not need to advertise locally or complete a labour market test before hiring.
Key requirements:
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At least three seasons of relevant experience within the last six years
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Must spend three months outside New Zealand each year
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Visa validity: up to three years
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Must meet health and character requirements
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No English test required
Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)
The Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) supports businesses that need additional staff during short-term peak seasons. Employers must advertise the role locally and demonstrate genuine efforts to hire New Zealanders before recruiting from overseas.
Key requirements:
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At least one season of relevant experience in the last three years
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Visa validity: up to seven months
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If the job lasts longer than three months, workers must hold comprehensive health insurance
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No English test required
Application Requirements
Applicants for either visa must provide complete documentation proving they meet all eligibility criteria.
1. Job Offer and Employment Agreement
A valid job offer and signed employment agreement from an AEWV-accredited employer are required. The document must specify:
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Start and end dates
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Pay rate
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Guaranteed working hours
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Work location
2. Proof of Seasonal Work Experience
Applicants must show recent, relevant experience:
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GWSV: At least three seasons in the past six years
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PSV: At least one season in the past three years
Acceptable evidence includes employer letters, payslips, tax records, work rosters, or certificates confirming employment details.
3. Proof of Seasonality
Applicants must demonstrate their ability to comply with the visa’s seasonal pattern:
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GWSV: Evidence of spending three months outside New Zealand each year
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PSV: A four-month stand-down period between PSV roles
This can be shown through travel records, dated work documents, or employer confirmation letters.
4. Health Insurance (For PSV Roles Over 3 Months)
If the PSV job lasts longer than three months, workers must hold valid health insurance covering:
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Doctor visits and hospital treatment
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Prescription medicines and diagnostic tests
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Emergency dental care
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Medical evacuation or repatriation if needed
Applicants must attach their policy certificate, coverage details, and English translations where applicable.
5. Standard AEWV Documentation
All AEWV-based visa applications must also include:
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A valid passport and photo
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Medical and police certificates
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Any other documents requested by Immigration New Zealand