ABUJA, Nigeria – New Zealand has opened fresh job opportunities for Nigerians with the launch of new seasonal work visas lasting up to three years, aimed at tackling critical labour shortages across its economy.
Effective December 6, 2025, the scheme introduces two visa categories:
Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV): For skilled workers in seasonal roles, valid for up to three years.
Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV): For entry-level workers, valid for seven months, with a four-month mandatory break before reapplying.
Authorities in Wellington said the move will boost sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, tourism, food processing, seafood farming, forestry, and snow sports—industries that rely heavily on peak seasons.
According to authorities, applicants for the Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV) must have completed at least three seasonal roles within the last six years, while those applying for the Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV) are required to have completed one seasonal role in the past three years.
Additional conditions include comprehensive health insurance for PSV applicants, a mandatory minimum of three months spent outside New Zealand each year, and restrictions that limit workers to job changes only within the same visa category.
The visas cover roles including mobile plant operators, meat processors, oyster and mussel farm workers, tulip growers, winery cellar staff, shearers, inspectors, and calf rearers.
Officials say the visas will attract foreign talent while ensuring fair competition for locals.
For Nigerians, the development comes as countries like the UK and US tighten immigration rules, making New Zealand a new destination for legal work abroad.
“This is a chance for young Nigerians to gain international experience while earning in industries central to New Zealand’s growth,” immigration experts said.
