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New Zealand’s government has announced the introduction of two new seasonal work visa categories, a development that makes Sierra Leoneans eligible to apply.
The new visas, set to take effect on December 8, 2025, are designed to address labor shortages in key sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, tourism, and food processing.
The announcement from the government of New Zealand outlines two new visa categories under its Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework: the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) and the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV).
Officials say the initiative is designed to plug critical skill gaps while preserving the integrity and fairness of the country’s immigration system. Although both visas will specify eligible seasonal occupations, immigration authorities will assess each application to ensure the role genuinely corresponds with the sector’s peak period.
Visa details and eligibility
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate prior employment in a relevant seasonal role for at least three separate seasons within the past six years. Additionally, visa holders will be required to spend a minimum of three months outside New Zealand annually to retain their eligibility.
The PSV, meanwhile, is expected to cater to shorter-term labour needs, though further details on its structure and requirements are anticipated closer to the rollout date.
This move marks a strategic effort to bolster New Zealand’s labour force during high-demand periods, while maintaining a balanced and transparent immigration framework.
How the visas work
The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) is designed for skilled workers undertaking seasonal roles and offers a validity period of up to three years. To initiate the process, accredited employers must first obtain a job check for the relevant seasonal position, after which eligible workers may apply. Applicants must have completed at least three seasons of work in a related role within the past six years to qualify.
Visa holders are required to spend a minimum of three months outside New Zealand each year to maintain their eligibility. Notably, the GWSV does not impose a Labour Market Test or English language requirement, and holders may transition to other visa categories if their circumstances change.
Roles covered under this visa
The roles covered under this visa category are: Agricultural and horticultural mobile plant operator, agricultural technician (for example sheep or animal pregnancy scanner), chairlift operator, tulip grower, thoroughbred yearling preparer, snow groomer, mountain or glacier guide, outdoor adventure instructor, primary products inspector, shearer, slaughterer, snow sports instructor, snow maker, snowsport equipment technician, whitewater rafting guide, wine maker and winery senior cellar hand.
Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)
The Peak Seasonal Visa is intended for entry-level or lower-skilled seasonal roles and is valid for a period of up to seven months. Once this limit is reached, visa holders are required to take a four-month break before they may reapply.
To be eligible, applicants must have completed at least one season of relevant work within the past three years and must possess comprehensive health insurance. While there is no English language requirement, employers are expected to engage with, or be formally endorsed by, Work and Income as part of the application process.
Roles covered under this visa
The roles covered under this visa are: Mussel or oyster farm worker, calf rearer, relief milker, forestry worker, meat boner and slicer, meat process worker, seafood process worker, winery cellar hand and wool handler.
Individuals granted visas under either pathway are not permitted to sponsor visas for partners or dependants. They may only switch employment within the same visa category. Those transitioning from a student or work visa will continue to hold interim work rights while their new visa application is under review.
