Islamabad, Aug 12, 2025: The New Zealand Government has announced two new seasonal work visas aimed at supporting vital sectors such as agriculture, forestry, and tourism.
These visas will be open for applications starting December, providing Pakistani workers with new opportunities to work legally in New Zealand’s seasonal industries.
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford introduced the three-year Global Workforce Seasonal Visa specially designed for skilled workers like rural contractors, winemaking staff, and chairlift operators. This visa allows holders to enter New Zealand multiple times over three years.
However, visa holders must spend at least three months outside New Zealand each year before returning. This visa is also exempt from the local advertising requirement and includes access to publicly funded healthcare.
Peak Seasonal Visa
The Peak Seasonal Visa targets lower-skilled jobs in agriculture and aquaculture. Eligible roles include meat and seafood processing, calf-rearing, and wool handling. Workers must have at least one season of experience and can stay for up to seven months.
After their stay, they must leave New Zealand for at least four months before applying for renewal. Health insurance is mandatory for stays over three months under this visa.
READ MORE: Singapore 2025 Work Permit Rules: What You Need to Know
Benefits for Employers and Workers
Employers must first advertise these lower-skilled jobs locally before hiring from overseas under the Peak Seasonal Visa. This helps balance the local job market while giving businesses the flexibility to increase their workforce during peak seasons.
Applications for both visas will open on December 8 this year. These new visas will replace the previous Specific Purpose Work Visa, which allowed stays up to nine months but was only a temporary solution.
