The New 2026 Seasonal Visa Roadmap: What Every Winemaker and Seeker Needs to Know
The New Zealand wine industry just got a significant regulatory boost. As of late 2025 and into the 2026 season, the government has officially rolled out two brand-new visa pathways under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework.
If you are looking for work—or looking to hire—for the 2026 vintage, these new categories are designed specifically to cut through the “red tape” that previously slowed down seasonal hiring.
1. The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa (GWSV)
This is a game-changer for experienced wine professionals (like Senior Cellar Hands and Winemakers) who return to New Zealand year after year.
- Duration: Valid for up to 3 years.
- The Perk: You don’t need to apply for a new visa every single year. You can come and go on the same visa, provided you spend at least 3 months outside NZ each year.
- Requirement: You must prove you have worked at least 3 seasons in the last 6 years in a relevant role.
- The Best Part: No English language test and no Labour Market Test (meaning employers don’t have to prove they couldn’t find a Kiwi first for these skilled roles).
2. The Peak Seasonal Visa (PSV)
Designed for entry-level roles like standard Cellar Hands and Vineyard Workers, this replaces the old, clunkier “Specific Purpose” pathways.
- Duration: Up to 7 months.
- The Stand-Down: After your 7 months are up, you must spend at least 4 months outside NZ before you can apply for another PSV.
- Requirement: You need at least 1 season of relevant experience in the last 3 years.
- Insurance: Unlike some other visas, comprehensive health insurance is mandatory for the entire duration.
Comparison: Which one fits your role?
| Feature | Global Workforce (GWSV) | Peak Seasonal (PSV) |
| Best For | Experienced/Skilled Roles | Entry-level / Harvest Workers |
| Validity | 3 Years (Multi-season) | 7 Months (Single-season) |
| Experience | 3 seasons in 6 years | 1 season in 3 years |
| Wait Period | 3 months off per year | 4 months off after expiry |
| English Test | Not required | Not required |
Why this matters for Winesandjobs.com
These changes are a direct response to the New Zealand Winegrowers advocating for more certainty. For employers, it means faster access to staff. For seekers, it means the 3-year GWSV finally offers a way to plan a long-term “seasonal career” in New Zealand without the stress of annual paperwork.
💡 Note for Applicants: Both visas require a job offer from an Accredited Employer. When browsing jobs on our site, keep an eye out for the “Accredited” badge to ensure the winery can support your visa application.
Cheers !!!