Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) – New Zealand (Starting December 2025)
New Zealand has introduced the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) to support key industries during peak seasons by allowing experienced seasonal workers to return legally and repeatedly. This visa is especially valuable for workers with proven seasonal experience and for employers facing recurring labour shortages.
The GWSV operates under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework and is expected to open from 8 December 2025.
What is the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)?
The GWSV is a multi-year seasonal work visa designed for skilled and experienced seasonal workers who have previously worked in similar roles. Unlike short-term seasonal visas, this option allows workers to return to New Zealand over multiple years without reapplying each season.
It is ideal for industries that rely heavily on seasonal demand, such as:
Agriculture
Horticulture
Viticulture
Tourism & hospitality
Food processing and related seasonal services
Key Features of the GWSV
1. Visa Duration
Valid for up to 3 years
Allows multiple seasonal entries
2. Annual Work Limit
Work up to 9 months in each 12-month period
Mandatory minimum 3 months outside New Zealand between seasons
This ensures the visa remains seasonal and does not replace permanent roles.
3. Job Offer Requirement
To apply, you must have:
A full-time job offer
Employer must be Accredited by Immigration New Zealand
Role must be listed on the GWSV Eligible Job List
Pay must meet market or median wage requirements
4. No Labour Market Test
Employers do not need to advertise locally or prove a shortage of New Zealand workers
This significantly speeds up hiring for approved roles
5. Experience Requirement
Applicants must:
Have worked in a relevant seasonal role for at least 3 seasons
These seasons must fall within the last 6 years
This ensures only experienced and reliable workers qualify.
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible if you:
Have strong seasonal work experience
Meet health and character requirements
Can show previous seasonal employment history
Receive a compliant job offer from an accredited employer
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer
Find a job with an Accredited Employer offering a role approved under the GWSV.
Step 2: Employer Job Check
The employer must complete a Job Check to confirm:
Role is eligible under GWSV
Pay meets market rates
Employment conditions meet NZ law
Step 3: Submit Visa Application
You will need:
Valid passport
Signed employment agreement
Evidence of past seasonal experience
Health & character documents
Applications are submitted online through Immigration New Zealand.
Family & Dependents
❌ No partner or dependent visas allowed
Family members cannot be included
GWSV is strictly for individual seasonal workersTransition to Other Visas
Although the GWSV is temporary, holders may:
Transition to other work visas
Apply under AEWV or other pathways if eligibility is met
Move without starting the process from zero
This provides flexibility for workers who gain long-term opportunities.
Benefits of the GWSV
For Workers
Multi-year access to New Zealand
Reduced visa reapplication stress
Legal and structured seasonal employment
Stable income during peak seasons
For Employers
Reliable, experienced workforce
Faster hiring process
Lower compliance burden
Workforce continuity across seasons
Where to Find GWSV Jobs (Official Links)
Use these trusted and official job platforms:
Immigration New Zealand – Accredited Employers https://www.immigration.govt.nz/employ-migrants/hire-migrant-workers/accredited-employers
Work and Income NZ Job Bank https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/jobs
Seek New Zealand (Private Job Portal) https://www.seek.co.nz
Always confirm that the employer is accredited before accepting any offer.
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa
New Zealand seasonal work visa
Work abroad in New Zealand
New Zealand GWSV jobs
Accredited employer work visa NZ
Seasonal jobs in New Zealand 2025
Final Thoughts
The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) is a major opportunity for experienced seasonal workers who want long-term, legal access to New Zealand’s job market. With no labour market test, multi-year validity, and simplified employer processes, it is one of the most worker-friendly seasonal visas New Zealand has introduced.
If you have strong seasonal experience and the right employer, the GWSV can be your gateway to repeated work opportunities in New Zealand’s high-demand industries.
Always check the official Immigration New Zealand website for updates before applying.
