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In response to the ongoing labor shortages affecting seasonal industries, the New Zealand government has introduced a new Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) subcategory. This temporary visa is designed to provide businesses with quick access to the labour needed for seasonal peaks without some of the typical visa processing delays. Here’s a comprehensive look at what this visa entails and how it benefits both employers and workers.

Understanding the Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV)

The Specific Purpose Work Visa has been a useful tool, allowing businesses to bring in foreign workers for a specific purpose or project. The new SPWV subcategory focuses specifically on addressing the fluctuating labor demands in industries affected by seasonal factors such as agriculture, ski instructing, and tree planting. By providing more flexibility to employers during critical periods, this visa ensures that essential tasks can be completed on time, ultimately supporting the economic resilience of New Zealand.

Key Features of the SPWV Subcategory

This visa category is designed to be a streamlined and flexible option. Below are its main features:

• Job Check Exemption: Employers can skip the usual Job Check process, though they are still required to advertise the position before hiring a migrant worker.
• Pay and Work Hours: The job must pay at least NZD$29.66 per hour and provide a minimum of 30 hours of work per week.
• Job Duration: The role must not last longer than nine months and should start no later than 31 May 2025.
• Industry Exclusions: Certain roles, such as those in horticulture, viticulture, and fishing crew work, are excluded as they are covered by other visa programs​.

Who Can Apply for the SPWV Subcategory?

To qualify for the Specific Purpose Work Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria:

• The work must be seasonal and directly impacted by weather or other natural conditions.
• Applicants must have at least four months of relevant experience in a similar role.
• The application for this visa must be submitted before 31 March 2025, with the job commencing by 31 May 2025.

Employer Requirements for the SPWV

Employers wishing to hire under this new visa must meet specific conditions:

1. Accreditation: Employers must be accredited under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) framework.
2. Advertising: The role must be advertised for at least two weeks before an application is submitted. This ensures that New Zealanders have the first opportunity to apply for the job.
3. Documentation: Employers must provide supporting documents to demonstrate that the job was advertised properly and that no suitable local candidates were found​.

Benefits for Employers

For industries like agriculture, forestry, and tourism, which rely heavily on seasonal labor, this visa subcategory offers several advantages:

• Faster Processing: Employers can avoid the lengthy Job Check process, speeding up the hiring of workers to meet urgent labor demands.
• Flexibility: The visa is tailored to seasonal needs, making it easier for businesses to find workers during their busiest times, whether it’s for ski season or harvesting crops​.

Benefits for Migrants

For skilled workers looking for temporary opportunities in New Zealand, the Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) subcategory provides a pathway to gain experience in industries critical to the country’s economy. It opens up work opportunities in areas that may not be available under other visa categories, with clear guidelines for pay and job conditions​.

Future of Seasonal Work Visas

While the Specific Purpose Work Visa subcategory is a temporary solution, the government recognizes the need for a long-term strategy. As part of the ongoing review of the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), consultations are being held to explore permanent visa options for seasonal workers. This would provide a more sustainable solution for industries that depend on seasonal labor​.

Conclusion

New Zealand’s new Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) subcategory addresses an immediate need in the country’s labor market, providing much-needed flexibility for employers facing seasonal peaks. For migrants, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to critical sectors of the economy while gaining valuable work experience. As the government continues to refine its immigration policies, this visa category highlights the importance of adaptive workforce solutions in maintaining New Zealand’s economic vitality.

For more NZ Visa Information, including other temporary and seasonal work visas, make sure to check all the pages of our website (www.nzeta-visa.org).