On December 8, 2025, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) will open applications for two new seasonal visa options under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework: the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV).
The new visas are intended to make it easier for accredited employers to hire for genuine seasonal roles, while keeping checks in place to prevent misuse.
Most conditions for these visas are the same as those for an Accredited Employer Work Visa. To change any conditions, applicants must apply for a Job Change.
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)
This visa is for roles that are genuinely seasonal and has specific requirements, including:
- employers do not need to advertise the role in New Zealand and show they have tried to hire a New Zealander before recruiting internationally for approved roles i.e., employers do not need a labor market test;
- visas will be granted for three years;
- applicants are required to meet health and character requirements, regardless of their intended stay;
- applicants must have at least three seasons of relevant experience within the last six years and spend three months outside New Zealand each year;
- English language testing is not required.
Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)
This visa is designed for short peak periods and has specific requirements, including:
- employers must advertise the role in New Zealand and show they have tried to hire a New Zealander before recruiting internationally for approved roles i.e., employers need a labor market test;
- employers must either engage with Work and Income in good faith for the proposed roles or gain PSV endorsement from Work and Income;
- visas can last up to seven months, and applicants need at least one season of relevant experience within the last three years;
- if the job runs longer than three months, comprehensive health insurance is required;
- English language testing is not required.
What applicants need to prepare
Applicants must provide clear, complete evidence that they meet the requirements for their chosen seasonal visa. This includes:
- A job offer and employment agreement;
- Proof of the required seasonal work experience;
- Proof of seasonality:
- GWSV: Proof the applicant can spend three months outside New Zealand each year;
- PSV: Proof the applicant can meet the four-month stand-down before applying for another PSV;
- Health insurance (PSV roles longer than three months);
- Standard AEWV supporting evidence.
Because GWSV visas are granted for 36 months, full medical and character checks are required regardless for all applicants. This includes providing a valid police certificate to demonstrate good character, except where this has been provided in the previous 24 months and character has not changed.
Applicants must submit a complete police certificate with their application — not just proof of having applied — to avoid delays or possible refusal.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.