The New Zealand government has introduced a new temporary visa option designed specifically for seasonal workers. This new subcategory of the Specific Purpose Work Visa is aimed at assisting companies that experience seasonal peaks in demand. By providing this visa option, New Zealand aims to offer a streamlined solution for industries needing short-term, specialized labor.
New Subcategory for Seasonal Work
On August 15, 2024, the New Zealand Government announced this new visa subcategory, which is expected to bring much-needed relief to employers in sectors with significant seasonal fluctuations. This visa category allows individuals to come to New Zealand for a specific purpose or event. In this case, it targets roles that are directly affected by changes in weather, such as harvesting, ski instructing, or tree planting.
To qualify for this visa, the role must start on or before May 31, 2025, and be for no longer than nine months. However, roles in horticulture, viticulture, and fishing crews that are covered by other visas are excluded from this new subcategory. Applications from migrants must be received by March 31, 2025, to be considered.
Requirements for Employers and Migrants
Employers looking to hire under this visa must meet certain criteria. Firstly, they need to hold employer accreditation, a status that ensures they are recognized by the New Zealand government as a legitimate and responsible employer. Furthermore, they must offer a minimum pay rate of NZD $29.66 per hour for at least 30 hours per week. Employers are also required to advertise the role beforehand and provide evidence of this to the migrant, who will include it in their visa application.
For migrants to be eligible, they need to have at least four months of experience in a role with the same tasks or responsibilities as the one being offered. This ensures that the seasonal workers coming to New Zealand are skilled and can perform their duties efficiently from the outset.
Future Plans for Seasonal Worker Visas
The introduction of this temporary visa option comes as part of New Zealand’s ongoing review of the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) scheme. The government is considering the need for a longer-term visa option for seasonal workers and plans to undertake targeted consultations as part of this review. This new subcategory is seen as a stopgap measure, providing immediate, short-term relief while more permanent solutions are explored.
A Timely Solution for Seasonal Industries
The launch of this new visa subcategory demonstrates New Zealand’s commitment to supporting industries that rely on seasonal labor. By offering a temporary, streamlined visa pathway, the government aims to ensure that these industries can continue to operate efficiently during peak seasons, thereby maintaining their contribution to the economy.
This initiative also reflects New Zealand’s broader strategy of aligning its immigration policies with the needs of its labor market. As the government continues to review and refine its immigration programs, both employers and workers can expect more tailored solutions that address the evolving demands of the economy.
