New Zealand unveils new temporary pathway for seasonal workers

The New Zealand government is introducing a new Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) subcategory to make it easier for employers to find talent ahead of upcoming seasonal peaks.

The new subcategory will be an interim, time-limited, and streamlined pathway that is in line with the length of seasonal work, according to Immigration Minister Erica Stanford.

"This pathway will continue to have some key requirements to support the integrity of our immigration system and provide New Zealanders with the first opportunity for roles," Stanford said in a statement.

The requirements that migrants seeking an SPWV for a seasonal role need to meet include the following:

• The applicant must be taking up a role that is directly related to seasonal activity.
• The role must pay at least $29.66 per hour.
• The role must be for at least 30 hours per week.
• The employer must hold current accreditation under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) instructions.
• The employer must have advertised the role for at least two weeks prior to the application being lodged.
• The applicant needs to have at least four months of experience in a role with the same tasks or responsibilities.

The pathway does not cover roles related to the planting, maintaining, harvesting, and packing of crops in the horticulture and viticulture industries, or crewing fishing vessels, according to the government's media release.

Applications are accepted until March 31, 2024, while the role applied for must start on or before May 31, 2025.

Assisting with seasonal peaks

The minister said they are opening the new pathway in recognition of the "significant number of additional workers" needed by several sectors to carry out seasonal roles.

It follows the recent hike to the RSA scheme, which was increased by 1,250 from the 2023 to 2024 season.

Stanford said she is considering the need for a "more permanent, long-term pathway for seasonal workers" as part of the ongoing AEWV scheme review.

"This change is a step forward in creating a smarter immigration system that creates opportunities for people to come here but also protects New Zealanders rights to work and thrive," she said.