New seasonal work visas now open

Immigration New Zealand has opened applications for two new seasonal visa types under the Accredited Employer Work Visa framework. These visas are designed to support industries with busy seasonal periods and to give employers more certainty when planning their workforce needs.

The two visa types are the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and the Peak Seasonal Visa. Each visa has its own eligibility requirements and set of conditions.

Global Workforce Seasonal Visa

The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa can be granted for up to three years. Applicants must have an employment agreement for at least one season in the first year and must spend a minimum of three months outside New Zealand each year. This visa is suited to workers with significant experience in seasonal roles.

Applicants must:
• have a job offer in select roles such as sheep scanners, shearers, winemakers and ski instructors
• provide evidence of at least three seasons of relevant experience in the last six years
• meet health and character requirements

Peak Seasonal Visa

The Peak Seasonal Visa can be granted for up to seven months. Once the seven month limit is reached the worker must spend at least four continuous months outside New Zealand before returning on another Peak Seasonal Visa. This visa supports industries that require short term workers for defined peak periods.

Applicants must:
• have a job offer in select roles such as meat and seafood processing, calf rearing and wool handling
• provide evidence of at least one season of relevant experience in the last three years
• provide evidence of acceptable health insurance if the job offer is longer than three months

There are also different advertising and job check obligations for employers. Employers hiring under the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa do not need to advertise or engage with Work and Income but must complete a job check. Employers hiring under the Peak Seasonal Visa must advertise the role and either engage with Work and Income or hold a Peak Seasonal Visa endorsement from Work and Income. A job check is required for both visa types.

These new visas provide additional pathways for workers with previous seasonal experience and offer employers more flexibility during busy periods. If you are considering a seasonal role or planning to hire seasonal workers our team can advise on eligibility, documentation and next steps.