New Visa Category Open – Specific Purpose or Event Work Visa for Seasonal Work

We are excited to announce that Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has introduced a new subcategory under the Specific Purpose or Event Work Visa (SPEV) immigration instructions, specifically tailored for migrants seeking seasonal work opportunities in New Zealand. This new visa category is designed to address the demand for seasonal workers in various industries, ensuring that businesses can operate smoothly during peak activity periods.

Who is Eligible?

To qualify for this new SPEV category, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Seasonal Activity Requirement: The role must align with the definition of a “seasonal activity,” which refers to work undertaken during a peak of activity for an industry, typically driven by weather or climate changes and occurring only during a specific time of the year.
  • Accredited Employer: The role must be with an Accredited Employer.
  • Pay and Hours: The position must offer at least $29.66 per hour and guarantee a minimum of 30 hours per week.
  • Start Date: The job must commence on or before 31 May 2025.

Key Dates:

  • Application Deadline: Applications for this visa must be submitted on or before 31 March 2025.
  • Effective Date: These changes are effective from 15 August 2024.

Additional Details:

  • Applicants granted an SPEV for seasonal work will not be eligible to support partners or dependents during their stay.
  • The role must not exceed a period of nine months and should directly relate to the seasonal peak in the industry.

Examples of Eligible Roles:

  • Rural Contractors: Required during harvest seasons, which are dependent on weather conditions.
  • Ski Instructors and Snow Groomers: Needed once there is sufficient snow for the ski season to begin.
  • Winemakers: Required during the grape harvest season.
  • Tree Planters: Operating within a narrow time window for successful planting, dictated by weather conditions.
  • Jet Boat or Bungee Operators: Operating only during warmer seasons.

If you’re interested in this visa category or have any questions about the application process, our team at VisaSector is here to help. We specialize in navigating New Zealand’s complex immigration landscape and are committed to assisting you in securing the right visa for your specific needs.

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