New Zealand Launches Two New Seasonal Work Visas: A Complete Guide for Foreign Workers

New Zealand Launches Two New Seasonal Work Visas: A Complete Guide for Foreign Workers


New Zealand has exciting news for people who want to work there temporarily. The country recently announced an important update: New Zealand launches two new seasonal work visas starting December 8, 2025. These visas open doors for many foreign workers who want to earn money while experiencing New Zealand’s beautiful outdoors and vibrant culture. If you are thinking about applying, this simple guide will walk you through everything you need to know about these new visas and the New Zealand Application Visa process.

Why Did New Zealand Launch Two New Seasonal Work Visas?

Each year, New Zealand’s farms, ski resorts, wineries, and adventure parks need more workers during busy seasons. But sometimes, there are not enough people living in the country who can fill these jobs. To fix this, New Zealand launches two new seasonal work visas to bring in workers from other countries safely and fairly. These visas meet the needs of both the country’s businesses and the workers who want to come and help during peak seasons.

What Are the Two New Seasonal Work Visas?

The two new visas launched are called the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (or GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (or PSV). Both help foreign workers join seasonal jobs, but they are a little different:

  • The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) is for workers who have experience. If you have worked in seasonal jobs before and want to come back, this visa is for you. It allows you to work longer in New Zealand.
  • The Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) is for people who need short-term work. Maybe you are new to seasonal jobs or want to work a short busy season. This visa allows working for up to seven months.

Both visas help workers get legal jobs in places like fruit picking, skiing, or tourist adventures. This helps the New Zealand economy grow and supports employers looking for seasonal help. Remember, New Zealand launches two new seasonal work visas to make sure workers and businesses both benefit.

Who Can Apply for These Visas?

If you want to apply, you need to meet some rules. For the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa, you should have worked in a seasonal job before — at least three seasons within the past six years. You also must leave New Zealand for at least three months every year you hold the visa.

For the Peak Seasonal Visa, you need some seasonal job experience (at least one recent season) or be able to prove you can do the job. Your stay can be up to seven months, perfect if you want to work only during the busiest time.

Both visas require that you will work in sectors like farming, tourism, or food processing. These jobs depend on the weather or seasons, so they change each year. If your job is part of other visa categories or sectors, these seasonal work visas may not be the right fit. It is important to check carefully during your New Zealand Application Visa process.

How to Apply: The New Zealand Application Visa Process

The New Zealand Application Visa process for these new seasonal work visas is made to be smooth and clear. Here’s how you can apply:

  1. First, find a job. Only accredited employers can offer jobs for these visas. Look for trusted companies hiring seasonal workers.
  2. Choose your visa type carefully. If you have experience, apply for the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa; if you want short-term work, apply for the Peak Seasonal Visa.
  3. Prepare your documents. You will need your passport, job offer letter, proof of health insurance, and proof of past seasonal work.
  4. Submit your application. You can apply online through the official Immigration New Zealand website or at an embassy or consulate.
  5. Wait for approval. Immigration New Zealand will check your application and make sure you meet all rules.

Following these steps during your New Zealand Application Visa process can save you time and worry.

What Are the Benefits of These Seasonal Work Visas?

New Zealand launches two new seasonal work visas not just to fill jobs but to protect workers too. Here are some benefits you can expect:

  • Your employer must guarantee at least 30 hours of work per week over four weeks, even if the weather is bad.
  • You can travel in and out of New Zealand during your visa time (but you pay travel costs yourself).
  • You can change your employer with 21 days allowed after leaving your job.
  • You will earn fair wages—returning workers earn more than new workers.
  • You can also choose to train and improve your skills while working in New Zealand.

These promises make these visas a safe and attractive choice for seasonal workers.

Which Jobs Are Covered?

The jobs covered by these visas include:

  • Fruit and vegetable picking and pruning
  • Winery work like making and bottling wine
  • Ski guides and instructors
  • Adventure tourism jobs like rafting and hiking guides
  • Outdoor roles including snow sport gear technicians
  • Meat processing jobs like workers in slaughterhouses

If your job matches these areas, the New Zealand Application Visa procedure will lead you to the right choice.

When Should You Apply?

Applications open on December 8, 2025. It’s a good idea to secure a job offer before applying so you can start working in time. Seasonal jobs usually start in late spring and run through the autumn. Don’t miss your chance to work during your favorite season!

Other Important Tips

  • Always apply through official Immigration New Zealand sources.
  • Be sure your employer is accredited.
  • Give clear and honest information in your New Zealand Application Visa form.
  • Keep copies of all your documents and emails.
  • Prepare to answer questions about your work history and health.

Final Words

New Zealand launches two new seasonal work visas that open new doors for many workers around the world. Whether you have lots of experience or just a little, these visas help you find seasonal jobs in some of New Zealand’s most beautiful places. By understanding the process clearly and applying carefully, you can enjoy working overseas with confidence.

Seasonal work in New Zealand is a wonderful way to earn money, learn new skills, and explore a unique country. If you want to start your journey, look into the New Zealand Application Visa process today and get ready for an adventure!

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NZeTA - New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority.