The Working Holiday Visa allows young people from eligible countries to experience New Zealand while working to fund their travels. It's a unique opportunity to explore the country, gain international work experience, and potentially discover a place you want to call home long-term.
This guide covers everything you need to know about New Zealand's Working Holiday Scheme.
What is a Working Holiday Visa?
The Working Holiday Visa (WHV) is a temporary visa that allows young people to:
- Travel throughout New Zealand for up to 12-23 months
- Work to support themselves during their stay
- Experience New Zealand culture and lifestyle
The visa is designed for young adults seeking travel experiences, not permanent employment—though it can be a stepping stone to longer-term options.
Eligible Countries
New Zealand has Working Holiday agreements with over 40 countries. Each scheme has specific requirements:
Unlimited Schemes (No Quota)
These countries have no annual limit on visa numbers:
- United Kingdom (ages 18-30, 23 months)
- Canada (ages 18-35, 23 months)
- Germany (ages 18-30, 12 months)
Quota Schemes (Limited Numbers)
Many countries have annual quotas that often fill quickly:
| Country | Age Limit | Duration | Typical Quota |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 18-30 | 12 months | Unlimited |
| France | 18-30 | 12 months | Unlimited |
| Ireland | 18-30 | 12 months | Unlimited |
| Japan | 18-30 | 12 months | Unlimited |
| South Korea | 18-30 | 12 months | 3,000 |
| Taiwan | 18-30 | 12 months | 600 |
| Argentina | 18-35 | 12 months | 1,000 |
| Brazil | 18-30 | 12 months | 300 |
| Chile | 18-30 | 12 months | 1,000 |
| Malaysia | 18-30 | 12 months | 1,100 |
| Thailand | 18-30 | 12 months | 200 |
| Indonesia | 18-30 | 12 months | 100 |
Quotas and age limits may vary—check current INZ information.
Basic Requirements
All Schemes
Standard requirements include:
- Be citizen of eligible country
- Meet age requirements (typically 18-30 or 18-35)
- Not traveling with dependent children
- Hold a valid passport from eligible country
- Meet health and character requirements
- Have return ticket or funds to purchase
- Have sufficient funds for initial stay (typically NZ$4,200)
Specific Scheme Requirements
Some schemes have additional requirements:
- Tertiary qualification (some countries)
- English language ability
- Health insurance
- Specific documentation
Check your country's specific scheme requirements.
How to Apply
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Confirm:
- Your country has a WHV agreement with NZ
- You meet age requirements
- You haven't previously held NZ WHV (most schemes once only)
- Quota is open (for capped schemes)
Step 2: Gather Documents
Prepare:
- Valid passport
- Recent passport photo
- Evidence of funds (bank statements)
- Return ticket or funds for one
- Health insurance proof
- Any country-specific documents
Step 3: Apply Online
Submit through Immigration Online:
- Create account
- Complete application form
- Upload documents
- Pay fee
Step 4: Await Decision
Processing is typically quick:
- Many approved within days
- Some may require additional checks
- Medical examination if requested
Costs
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| WHV application fee | NZ$455 (varies by country) |
| Minimum funds required | NZ$4,200 |
| Health insurance | Variable (required for many schemes) |
Work Rights and Conditions
What You Can Do
- Work for any employer
- In any occupation
- Anywhere in New Zealand
- Full-time or part-time
Limitations
Some working holiday visas have restrictions:
- UK/Canada: No limitations on employer
- Many others: Maximum 3-6 months with any single employer
- Some schemes: Specific occupation restrictions
Study Rights
Most WHV holders can:
- Study or train for up to 6 months
- Take short courses
- Learn new skills
Making the Most of Your WHV
Work Options
Popular working holiday jobs include:
- Hospitality (cafes, restaurants, hotels)
- Agriculture (fruit picking, farm work)
- Tourism (adventure activities, guides)
- Retail
- Seasonal work (ski fields, vineyards)
- Trades (for qualified workers)
Seasonal Work Hotspots
Different regions offer seasonal opportunities:
| Region | Peak Season | Work Type |
|---|---|---|
| Central Otago | Dec-Apr | Fruit picking |
| Hawke's Bay | Feb-May | Orchards, wineries |
| Queenstown | Jun-Sep, Dec-Feb | Snow sports, tourism |
| Bay of Plenty | Nov-May | Kiwifruit |
| Marlborough | Mar-May | Wine harvest |
Traveling While Working
Balance work with travel:
- Work in one location, save money
- Travel during off-season or between jobs
- Use NZ as base for exploring
Extending or Transitioning to Other Visas
WHV Extensions
Some schemes allow:
- UK holders: Up to 23 months total
- 3-month extension: For completing seasonal work (some nationalities)
Transitioning to Other Visas
If you want to stay longer:
- AEWV: If you find skilled employment with accredited employer
- Student Visa: If enrolling in further study
- Partnership Visa: If in relationship with NZ citizen/resident
- Other work visas: Based on employer sponsorship
The WHV can be an excellent way to explore whether New Zealand is right for you long-term.
Practical Tips
Before You Arrive
- Book accommodation for first nights
- Arrange airport transfer
- Get international driver's license (if driving)
- Research work opportunities
- Join working holiday Facebook groups
Upon Arrival
- Open NZ bank account (bring foreign bank statement)
- Get IRD number (required for work)
- Get local SIM card
- Register with your embassy
- Explore transport options
Finding Work
- Check job boards (Seek, Trade Me Jobs, Backpacker Board)
- Register with temping agencies
- Walk into businesses with CV
- Ask at hostels about local opportunities
- Network with other travelers
Staying Safe
- Register with Smart Traveller (your country's equivalent)
- Keep passport copies secure
- Maintain adequate insurance
- Know your rights as employee
- Stay connected with family
Common Questions
Can I bring my partner?
Partners can apply for their own WHV if eligible, or potentially partner visa if relationship evidence supports.
What if I can't find work?
WHV allows you to stay even without work—you're funded by savings. But most people find work opportunities readily available.
Can I stay permanently?
Not directly from WHV. But WHV can lead to discovering opportunities for other visas that do provide permanent pathways.
Does WHV time count toward residence?
General WHV time doesn't count toward residence requirements. But it's valuable for gaining NZ work experience.
Planning a working holiday in New Zealand? Find a licensed immigration adviser if you have questions about eligibility or transitioning to other visa types.