What is a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa?
The New Zealand Working Holiday Visa is a type of visa program offered by the New Zealand government that allows young people from eligible countries to live, work, and travel in New Zealand for a specified time.
Visa holders are typically allowed to take up short-term employment during their stay, although there may be restrictions on the types of work they can undertake.
Age Range
The visa is primarily aimed at individuals between the ages of 18 and 30 (or 35 for some countries), although the specific age requirements may vary depending on the applicant’s nationality.
Length of Stay
Allows travel and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months (up to 23 months for Canadians and up to 36 months for UK citizens).
Benefits of the New Zealand Working Holiday Visa
- Short term Work: Participants can engage in short-term employment during their stay, subject to restrictions on the types of work.
- Studying and Training Courses: Holders can study one or more courses for up to 6 months in New Zealand.
Note: The cost and availability of New Zealand visas can change because of decisions made by the New Zealand Immigration authorities.
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Countries with Working Holiday Agreements
The availability of working holiday visas depends on agreements between New Zealand and specific countries.
Each country’s working holiday visa criteria may differ regarding age limits, duration of stay, financial requirements, and specific working criteria.
- UK
- USA
- A
- B
- C
- D
- E
- F
- G
- H
- I
- J
- K
- L
- M
- N
- P
- S
- T
Argentina Working Holiday Visa
Austria Working Holiday Visa
Belgium Working Holiday Visa
Brazil Working Holiday Visa
Chile Working Holiday Visa
Croatia Working Holiday Visa
Czech Working Holiday Visa
Denmark Working Holiday Visa
Estonia Working Holiday Visa
Finland Working Holiday Visa
Hungary Working Holiday Visa
Hong Kong Working Holiday Visa
Ireland Working Holiday Visa
Israel Working Holiday Visa
Italy Working Holiday Visa
Korea Working Holiday Visa
Latvia Working Holiday Visa
Lithuania Working Holiday Visa
Luxembourg Working Holiday Visa
Malaysia Working Holiday Visa
Malta Working Holiday Visa
Mexico Working Holiday Visa
Netherlands Working Holiday Visa
Norway Working Holiday Visa
Peru Working Holiday Visa
Phillippines Working Holiday Visa
Poland Working Holiday Visa
Portugal Working Holiday Visa
Singapore Working Holiday Visa
Slovakia Working Holiday Visa
Slovenia Working Holiday Visa
Spain Working Holiday Visa
Sweden Working Holiday Visa
Taiwan Working Holiday Visa
Thailand Working Holiday Visa
Turkey Working Holiday Visa
Other countries without working holiday agreements:
- Individuals from countries without working holiday agreements with New Zealand may explore other visa options that allow them to work in the country.
- Options may include skilled migrant visas, work visas sponsored by employers, or study visas with work rights.
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What You Need to Know About Application
Vital information you should be aware of if interested in applying to a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa.
- All applications must be submitted online when the visa is ‘open’ for applications.
- Some schemes require applicants to be in their home country when applying.
- Depending on circumstances, applicants may need to provide a medical certificate or undergo medical examinations.
- Once granted, the visa must be activated by arriving in New Zealand within the specified timeframe.
What is the Application Process?
If you’re planning to apply for a Working Holiday Visa, here’s what you should know to make the process smooth.
Step 1: Check Application Window & Apply
Applicants need to ensure that the visa category is currently ‘open’ for applications. All applications must be submitted online through the official immigration website of New Zealand.
Step 2: Documents
Complete the online application form and provide all required documents and information.
Step 3: Complete Payment
Pay the applicable visa fee as specified by the immigration authorities.
Step 4: Processing and Waiting
Await processing of the visa application, which may vary in duration depending on individual circumstances and visa availability.
How Canadian and UK Citizens May Extend their Working Holiday Visas
If you’re planning to apply for a Working Holiday Visa, here’s what you should know to make the process smooth.
Extension Options
- Canadian citizens currently in New Zealand on a 12-month working holiday visa may be eligible to extend their visa for up to another 11 months with a Working Holiday Scheme Subsequent Work Visa.
- UK citizens currently in New Zealand on a 12-month or longer working holiday visa may extend their visa to cover the balance of the 36-month maximum duration with a Working Holiday Scheme Subsequent Work Visa.
Application Process
- Step 1: Eligible individuals need to submit an application for the extension visa using the designated application form (INZ 1223).
- Step 2: Provide all required documents and information as per the immigration guidelines.
- Step 3: Pay the applicable visa fee for the extension application.
- Step 4: Await processing of the extension application by the immigration authorities.
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“I would like to thank ICL Immigration from the bottom of my heart for helping me with my essential skills work visa. Immigration NZ had many questions and keep finding problems with my employment offer and say that my job is not a mid-skilled one. Somehow, Nirmala Murthy and ICL immigration get me the 3-year essential skilled work visa that I needed. Very supportive, helpful and available - I will trust them with anything and recommend them to everyone who need any help with a visa or immigration matter.”
“Nirmala and her team worked very hard to get my work visa and her knowledge of the immigration system is very valuable when applying. I felt she worked very hard as my application required a fast turnaround and she would get back to me as soon as she could if I had any questions. Would use her services again.”
"I'd like to thank ICL Immigration from the bottom of my heart for helping me with my work visa. I will trust ICL with all my future visas and recommend them to everyone who needs any help with a visa or other immigration matters"
“I would highly recommend this place for anyone who is looking for professional service and excellent results”
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“It was great to work with ICL for my residency application process, Nirmala has been very helpful through the process, proper guidance, proper documentation and recommendation letter write up, flexible appointments after working hours even, answering queries even on weekends, it's motherly care! I believe all these are possible from her many years of experience and of course attitude and passion. Quality service in less expensive if we can compare the market. I would recommend anyone to go with ICL.”
“Getting the visa and the right course in New Zealand was not easy. Nirmala from ICL Immigration helped a lot. She made difficult things simple for me. Very thankful for her help and advice, always there to support me. 5 Stars.”
“Very glad I chose ICL to help me with my student admission. Many things I was unsure about but they understood my goal of coming to NZ and patiently answered all my questions. They guided me to choose the best course. I am very happy - you should contact them if you want to study in NZ.”
"I was very stressed about all the visa stuff and finding the right course to study in New Zealand, but Nirmala from ICL Immigration made it all easy. She answered all my questions and I am very happy I found them. Thanks ICL Team!"
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FAQs
How do I apply for a Working Holiday Visa?
You can apply for a Working Holiday Visa online through the Immigration New Zealand website. If you're already in New Zealand, you can also apply, but you'll need a New Zealand postal address.
Can I apply for a Working Holiday Visa if I’m already in New Zealand?
Yes, you can apply from within New Zealand, but you'll need a New Zealand postal address. Processing time for in-country applications is typically around four weeks.
How long does it take to get the visa?
Processing usually takes up to 20 working days from the time you successfully submit your application online. You'll receive an email either approving your visa or asking for more information.
Do I need to have a job to receive a Working Holiday Visa?
No, a job offer is not required to obtain the visa. You can find a job once you arrive in New Zealand. However, you must have enough funds to support your stay.
How much will I get paid in my job?
The minimum wage in New Zealand is currently $23.15 per hour as of April 1, 2024. Rates may vary depending on the job and employer.
Can I have more than one job in New Zealand on the Working Holiday Visa?
You can have multiple jobs to supplement your income while in New Zealand. However, different tax rates may apply to income from secondary jobs.
What do I need to give my employer to prove I can work in New Zealand?
You can show your employer a printout of your electronic work visa, or they can verify your entitlement to work using Immigration New Zealand’s online Visa Verification Service.
What if my country isn’t a member of the Working Holiday Scheme, or if I exceed the age limit?
Based on your skills, you may be eligible for another type of visa. Check the Immigration New Zealand website for alternative options.
How much money do I need to bring?
Immigration New Zealand generally requires a minimum of NZ$350 a month or NZ$4200 for 12 months to meet living costs requirements. Actual costs may vary based on your circumstances.
Do I need insurance?
Depending on your country’s requirements, you may need medical and comprehensive hospitalization insurance for the length of your stay. Check the Immigration New Zealand website for specific requirements.
What happens if I leave New Zealand for a while and then come back?
The Working Holiday Visa is a multiple-entry visa. You're free to leave and return as many times as you like, and any time spent outside of New Zealand will not extend the total validity of your visa.
How many times can I get a Working Holiday Visa?
The Working Holiday Visa only applies once during your lifetime. If you want to stay longer, you can explore other visa options available for temporary workers, students, or residents.
Disclaimer: The information provided is subject to change based on New Zealand government policies. For the most current information, please refer to Immigration New Zealand or contact ICL Immigration for updated guidance.
