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    • Global Workforce Seasonal Visa New Zealand

    Are you a New Zealand employer? Go to our employer portal here.

    The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWS Visa) is a category designed to support New Zealand’s seasonal industries—such as horticulture, viticulture, and tourism—by allowing employers to hire overseas workers when there are not enough local candidates available. It offers a practical solution for industries facing recurring seasonal shortages while ensuring fair opportunities for both local and international workers.

    This visa aligns with New Zealand’s broader workforce strategy, helping businesses meet peak demand while maintaining fair labour standards and protecting local employment opportunities.

    Key Features of the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa

    Key Features of the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa

    Eligibility Criteria

    For Workers

    To apply for a Global Workforce Seasonal Visa, applicants typically need to:

    • Have a valid job offer from an approved employer
    • Meet health and character requirements
    • Demonstrate relevant skills or physical capability for seasonal work
    • Hold valid travel documentation

    For Employers

    Employers must:

    • Be registered or accredited with immigration authorities
    • Provide evidence of labour shortages
    • Offer fair wages and conditions
    • Hire workers within the listed occupations and within the average season in the table below
    • Support worker welfare (including accommodation where required)
    Free Assessment

    List of eligible occupations

    Occupation ANZSCO or NOL code Months of the year Average season length
    Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator 721111 The season starts in October and finishes in May. The season could extend to halfway through June and start halfway through August. 9 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Agricultural Technician 311111 The season starts in October and finishes in June. 9 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Chairlift Operator 712111 The season starts in June and finishes in October. The season could start in May. 5 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Flower Grower — Tulip Growers only 121212 The peak season starts in December and finishes in February. There could be other peaks – one that starts in September and finishes in November, and another that starts in March and finishes in May. 3 months, plus or minus 2 weeks.
    Mountain or Glacier Guide 452214 The season starts in October and finishes in April. The winter season starts in May and finishes in September. 6 months, plus or minus 2 months.
    Outdoor Adventure Instructor 452215 The season starts in October and finishes in April. The winter season starts in May and finishes in September. 6 months, plus or minus 2 months.
    Primary Products Inspectors NEC 311399 The season starts in December and finishes in August. 9 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Shearers 361211 The season starts in October and finishes in March. The season could extend to April. 3 to 6 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Slaughterer 831212 The season starts in October and finishes in June. The season could start in September. 9 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Snow Groomer 721999 The season starts in June and finishes in October. The season could start in May. 5 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Snow Maker 712999 The season starts in May and finishes in October. 6 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Snow Sports Instructor 452314 The season starts in June and finishes in October. The season could start in May. 5 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Snowsport Equipment Technician 399999 The season starts in June and finishes in October. The season could start in May. 5 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Thoroughbred Yearling Preparer 361112 The season starts in October and finishes in February. The season could start in August. 7 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Whitewater Rafting Guide 452217 The season starts in October and finishes in April. The season could start in September and/or extend to May. 6 months, plus or minus 2 months.
    Wine Makers 234213 The season starts in January and finishes in June. The season could extend to July or August. 6 months, plus or minus 1 month.
    Winery Senior Cellar Hand 841517 The season starts January and finishes in June. The season could extend to July or August. 6 months, plus or minus 1 month.

    Differences from AEWV

    Feature Global Workforce Seasonal Visa Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
    Duration Short-term (seasonal) Longer-term
    Industry Focus Seasonal sectors All sectors
    Flexibility Limited to specific employer/job More flexible
    Purpose Fill temporary labour gaps Address broader skill shortages 

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    Benefits of the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa

    For Employers

    • Access to reliable seasonal labour
    • Reduced disruption during peak periods
    • Support for business continuity

    For Workers

    • Opportunity to work in New Zealand legally
    • Competitive wages
    • International work experience

    For the Economy

    • Strengthens primary industries
    • Supports export growth
    • Maintains supply chain stability
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    Get Your Free New Zealand Visa Eligibility Assessment

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    University of Waikato disclaimer

    I acknowledge that the University of Waikato is not, and will not be, liable for any costs, losses, damages, or liability incurred by me or any other party in connection with the services provided by New Zealand Shores limited.

    Furthermore, the University of Waikato makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy of information and or services provided by New Zealand Shores Limited.