Overview
The Working Holiday Visa is a popular route for young travelers to explore New Zealand. You do not need a job offer to apply, giving you the freedom to find work after you arrive. The primary purpose of your visit must be a holiday, with work being a secondary activity to support your travels.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must be a citizen of a country that has a working holiday agreement with New Zealand. You must be between 18 and 30 years old (some countries allow up to 35). You must also meet health and character requirements, have a valid passport, and demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Confirm your country has a working holiday scheme with New Zealand and check if you meet the specific age and passport requirements.
- 2
Step 2: Create an Account
Register for an Immigration New Zealand online account to access the application portal.
- 3
Step 3: Submit Application
Complete the online form accurately. Ensure you are applying during the correct window if your country's scheme is capped.
- 4
Step 4: Pay Fees
Pay the required visa application fee online using a valid credit or debit card.
- 5
Step 5: Await Decision
Monitor your email for updates. You may be asked to provide additional information or medical documentation.
Required documents
- Valid passport
- Proof of sufficient funds (typically NZD $4,200)
- Proof of onward travel (or additional funds to purchase a ticket)
- Medical/Chest X-ray certificates (if required based on your country of origin or length of stay)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
This is a temporary visa and does not provide a direct pathway to residence. However, it allows you to gain local experience, which may help you qualify for other work visas (like the Accredited Employer Work Visa) that could lead to residence.
Family options
This visa is generally for individuals. You typically cannot bring partners or dependent children on this specific visa; they would need to apply for their own separate visas based on their own eligibility.
Language notes
While there is no formal English test for most Working Holiday applicants, you must be able to communicate effectively to meet the conditions of your stay.
After arrival
Once you arrive, you should obtain an IRD number for tax purposes, open a local bank account, and ensure you have appropriate travel/medical insurance.
Common pitfalls
- Applying for a capped scheme before the official opening time.
- Failing to provide evidence of sufficient funds.
- Assuming you can be self-employed (this is generally prohibited).
- Not having a passport valid for the required duration beyond your planned departure.
FAQs about Working Holiday Visa
Who is the Working Holiday Visa for?+
Young citizens from participating countries who wish to experience New Zealand culture while having the freedom to work and travel.
What are the eligibility requirements for Working Holiday Visa?+
To qualify, you must be a citizen of a country that has a working holiday agreement with New Zealand. You must be between 18 and 30 years old (some countries allow up to 35). You must also meet health and character requirements, have a valid passport, and demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
How much does the Working Holiday Visa cost?+
Typical fees listed for Working Holiday Visa: Varies by nationality; typically starts from NZD $770.. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Working Holiday Visa processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: Typically up to 20 working days, though some online applications may be processed in as little as 5 days..
How long can I stay on the Working Holiday Visa?+
Typically 12 months, though some nationalities may be eligible for up to 23 or 36 months.
Can I work on the Working Holiday Visa?+
Full work rights are generally granted, allowing you to work for most employers. You cannot be self-employed.
Does Working Holiday Visa lead to permanent residence in New Zealand?+
This is a temporary visa and does not provide a direct pathway to residence. However, it allows you to gain local experience, which may help you qualify for other work visas (like the Accredited Employer Work Visa) that could lead to residence.
What are common mistakes with Working Holiday Visa?+
Applying for a capped scheme before the official opening time. Failing to provide evidence of sufficient funds. Assuming you can be self-employed (this is generally prohibited).