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Working Holiday Visas for 30+ Year-Old New Zealanders - The Definitive Guide

Our guide exclusively lists countries offering working visas for New Zealanders aged 30 and over, including the UK, Canada, Finland, Chile and more.​ We look at the eligibility, must-know facts and essential tips for a successful experience abroad.
Updated 11 November 2024
Summary:
  • ​Embarking on a working holiday can be an exciting and life-changing experience, allowing you to explore new countries and cultures while earning money to support your travels. However, for many New Zealanders over 30, finding a working holiday visa can be challenging.
  • However, while most working holiday visas have an age limit of 30, a few key countries offer working holiday visas for New Zealanders older than 30.
  • Our guide lists the countries that provide working holiday visas to New Zealand passport holders aged 30+. For comprehensive information on working holiday visas generally (such as restrictions, benefits, destinations, main eligibility criteria or other key requirements, check out our guide to working holiday visas).

As of November 2024, seven countries offer working holiday visas for Kiwis older than 30:
  • United Kingdom
  • Canada
  • Czech Republic
  • Hungary
  • Finland
  • Slovakia
  • Chile

​Our guide covers:
Know This First: Essential Eligibility Criteria for Working Holiday Visas for Kiwis Aged 30+
​For all of the countries listed below, you’ll likely need to meet the basic eligibility criteria:
  • Be a citizen of New Zealand and hold a valid New Zealand passport.
  • Be aged between 18 and 35 (inclusive) at the time of application.
  • Do not have dependent children accompanying you while staying in the host country.
  • Possess sufficient financial means to support yourself during your initial stay in the country.
  • Hold comprehensive health/medical/hospitalisation insurance for your stay.
  • Meet health and character requirements as specified by the host country’s authorities.

The typical WHV application process is as follows:​
  1. Submit the online visa application form online.
  2. If applicable, pay the application fee. You'll receive an application number and receipt (save this somewhere secure).
  3. Gather the requested verified documents (such as a passport, ID photo, birth certificate, proof of sufficient funds, signed visa application form, round-trip ticket or proof of sufficient funds to buy one, medical and travel insurance etc.).
  4. Send your visa application to the nearest relevant embassy or consulate of the host country (either in Australia or New Zealand).
  5. Respond to any follow-up requests made by the consulate/embassy(such as attending in-person appointments at visa application centres or biometric validation of information).
  6. Await the decision on the visa application, which may take several weeks.

Related guides:

MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh shares his views on working holidays for New Zealanders 30+:

​"I've lived in Australia, Singapore and the UK and believe the experiences are transformative. For Kiwis over 30, the opportunity to explore, work, and immerse in new cultures is not just a dream – it's a tangible reality. The UK is back online and accepting New Zealanders, while countries like Canada and Chile offer something different to the mainstream.

Before you apply, please understand the eligibility criteria, the application process, and, most importantly, the culture and the work environment of the country you're heading to. Having a financial cushion is crucial to ensure a smooth start to your adventure - if you don't, the day-to-day of life overseas can quickly become miserable. Money solves a lot of problems you'll face as you settle in overseas.

To anyone feeling hesitant or wondering if it's too late to embark on such an adventure, I say it's never too late. The experiences, skills, and memories you'll gain are invaluable. New Zealand will continue without you and will most likely be very much the same when you return from overseas. You're not alone in this journey – there's a community of like-minded individuals, and we've focused on providing resources to help and support you every step."
MoneyHub Founder
Christopher Walsh

A Comprehensive Breakdown of Each Country Offering Working Holiday Visas for Kiwis Aged 30+

1. United Kingdom

More Info: United Kingdom

Overview:
  • The maximum age for Kiwis to live/work in the UK under the popular Youth Mobility Scheme will rise from 30 to 35, and visa holders will be permitted to stay for three years, as opposed to the current two years. This revamped Working Holiday Visa scheme between NZ and the UK has been signed and came into force in June 2023.
  • You can find more details about the UK working holiday visa changes at Immigration New Zealand.
  • ​The United Kingdom (UK) offers young New Zealand citizens an exciting working holiday opportunity through the Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS). This programme enables New Zealanders aged between 18 and 35 to live, work, and travel in the UK for up to three years. Due to the proximity to greater Europe and an increased three-year tenure of the WHV (compared to one year for most other WHVs), the UK is always one of the top destinations for Kiwis looking to take the classic "OE" (Overseas Experience).

Must-Know Application Details:
  • The UK “Youth Mobility Scheme Visa" allows Kiwis to live, work (in most jobs) and study (for some courses, you'll need an ATAS or Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate) in the United Kingdom.
  • You're also permitted to be self-employed and start a company as long as your premises are rented, your equipment is not worth more than £5,000 (around NZD 10,000), and you do not have any employees working for you.
  • There is no cap for New Zealanders applying for UK visas of this type.
  • The current Youth Mobility application fee is £259 (around NZD 500).
  • You must pay a healthcare surcharge (usually £470 annually or around NZD 1,000).

Key Working Conditions and Restrictions for the UK:
  • You'll need sufficient funds to cover your initial living expenses in the United Kingdom (around £2,530 or NZD 5,000).
  • Visa holders cannot work as professional sports coaches or athletes.
  • You can’t extend your stay beyond three years on the Youth Mobility Scheme.
  • You can’t get public funds. 

2. Canada

More Info: Canada.

Overview:
  • Canada is another popular choice for New Zealanders (especially those who ski or snowboard).
  • In addition, Canada offers an attractive working holiday opportunity for young New Zealand citizens through the International Experience Canada (IEC) programme.
  • Similar to the UK's Youth Mobility Scheme visa, Canada offers an extended working holiday visa of up to 23 months (compared to 12 months for most other WHVs). In addition, Canada is the only country in North America offering working holiday visas to Kiwis over 30 years of age.

Must-Know Application Details:
  • The IEC application and processing fee is CAD 160 (around NZD 200).
  • Unfortunately, if you participated in International Experience Canada (IEC) before April 2, 2015, you're no longer eligible to apply.
  • Kiwis are largely unrestricted in the industry of job employment. In addition, they can work for different employers and change locations throughout their stay, offering flexibility and the chance to experience different parts of the country.
  • You'll need sufficient funds to cover your initial living expenses in Canada (around CAD 2,500 or NZD 3,000).

​Relevant Links:

3. Czech Republic

More Info: Czech Republic.

Overview:
  • ​The Czech Republic offers a reciprocal working holiday visa scheme for Kiwis keen to explore eastern and central Europe.
  • This programme enables New Zealanders aged between 18 and 35 to live, work, and travel in the Czech Republic for up to 12 months, promoting cultural exchange and fostering closer ties between the two nations.

Visa Application Details, Working Conditions and Opportunities:
  • Study in the Czech Republic is limited to 6 months maximum.
  • Work cannot be permanent employment.
  • The Czech Republic working holiday visa application fee is CZK 2,500 (around NZD 190). 
  • You'll need sufficient funds to cover your living expenses in the Czech Republic. This amount will vary, usually around CZK 100,000 (around NZD 8,000).
  • Note: you’ll need to physically visit the Embassy of the Czech Republic (Canberra) or the Consulate General of the Czech Republic (Sydney) to apply for the Czech Republic working holiday visa. You can find a detailed list of information you need to provide at the Consulate General of the Czech Republic.
    • Physical submission by mail is only possible in exceptional circumstances at the discretion of the Consulate General.
    • It's recommended to contact the consulate's visa section in advance via email before you arrive to submit the visa application.
    • Processing time is within 60 days.

​Relevant Links:

4. Hungary

More Info: Hungary

Overview:
  • ​Hungary has a rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Budapest, the capital city, is a popular destination for travellers and expats, offering a mix of historical sites, cultural events, and lively nightlife. Other cities, like Debrecen, Szeged, and Pécs, also provide unique experiences and job opportunities for working holiday participants.
  • Hungary's working holiday scheme allows Kiwis aged 18 to 35 to live, work, and travel in Hungary for up to 12 months.

Key Application Details and Working Conditions:
  • Hungary's working holiday visa scheme is known as a Temporary Residence Permit.
  • An annual cap of 100 temporary residence permits/visas applies for Kiwi applicants.
  • While on Hungary's working holiday scheme, you can't study for more than three months.
  • While on Hungary's working holiday scheme, you can't work for the same employer for over three months.
  • You may have to visit the Embassy or Consulate of Hungary in Australia or contact the Hungarian Consulate in Auckland for application, submission and validation requirements.

Relevant Links:

5. Finland

More Info: Finland

Overview:
  • ​The Finland working holiday visa scheme provides a fantastic opportunity for New Zealanders aged 18 to 35 to live and work in Finland for up to 12 months. This programme enables young Kiwis to experience the unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and high-quality lifestyle Finland offers while also allowing them to gain international work experience and enhance their CV. Finland is the only country in Scandinavia offering working holiday visas to Kiwis over 30 years of age.
  • Finland is renowned for its excellent education system, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable living, which can offer invaluable learning experiences for New Zealanders. In addition, the country's stunning natural beauty, including vast forests, countless lakes, and the mesmerising Northern Lights, makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The capital city, Helsinki, is a vibrant urban centre with a rich history and a mix of modern and classic architecture, making it an attractive location for employment opportunities.
  • When working in Finland, English is widely spoken, but learning Finnish or Swedish, the country's official languages, can be advantageous when seeking employment and integrating into the local community. In addition, Finnish language courses are available at various institutions, and many Finns are more than willing to help newcomers practise their language skills.

Key Application Details and Working Conditions:
  • Finland’s working holiday visa is known as a Residence Permit.
  • You’re able to live, work and study. However, work needs to be a secondary priority.
  • There are no restrictions on the work you can undertake in Finland.
  • You'll need sufficient funds to cover your first three months living in Finland (around €2,000 or NZD 3,500).
  • If applying electronically, the Finland working holiday visa application fee is €380 (around NZD 700). Otherwise, the working holiday visa application fee via paper submission is €480 (around NZD 850). 
  • You’ll need to provide a document showing that you're legally staying in the country where you apply.
  • To apply for the Finland working holiday visa, Kiwis must submit their application at the nearest Finnish consulate or embassy (in either Australia or New Zealand), along with the required documentation.

Relevant Links:

6. Slovakia

More Info: Slovakia

Overview:
  • ​The Slovakia working holiday visa scheme offers a unique opportunity for Kiwis aged between 18 and 35 to experience living and working in Slovakia for up to 12 months.

Working Conditions and Restrictions:
  • You’re able to live, work and study.
  • However, work and study must be incidental or have a secondary purpose.
  • Employment should primarily serve as a means to finance travel and not as the trip's primary purpose.
  • The same employer can't employ you for over six months (permanently).
  • To apply, fill out the form at the Slovak Public Administration.

7. Chile

More Info: Chile

Overview:
  • The Chile working holiday visa scheme presents an exciting opportunity for New Zealand citizens aged 18 and 35 to live and work in Chile for up to 12 months. Chile is the only country that offers working holiday visas to Kiwis older than 30 in South America.

Application Requirements:
  • You'll need to pay an application fee of USD 150 (around NZD 240). The fee will be payable once the visa has been approved, not before.
  • You need to provide a medical examination signed by a registered medical practitioner and dated within 30 days before the date of your visa application.
  • The certificate should specifically confirm you’re free of any contagious disease, are in good health and are fit for your upcoming travel to Chile.
  • You must be ordinarily residing in New Zealand at the time of application.

Working Conditions and Restrictions:
While in Chile on a working holiday visa, New Zealanders can engage in short-term employment to support their travels. However, there are certain restrictions:
  • Employment should primarily serve as a means to finance travel and not as the trip's primary purpose.
  • You'll need sufficient funds to cover your living costs in Chile (USD 3,000 or around NZD 5,000).
  • You’re able to work in Chile, but only for short-term employment.

Relevant Links:

Alternative Options for Kiwis over 35 Years Old Who Want to Work Abroad

​If you're over 35 and didn't apply for a working holiday visa before turning 36, you will probably be unable to work overseas on the traditional working holiday visa schemes offered by the countries above. However, other options exist for Kiwis over 35 looking to work abroad exist:

1. Skilled Worker Visas

Many countries offer skilled worker visas for professionals with specific qualifications or experience. For example, the USA offers O-1 visas to individuals with extraordinary abilities or achievements in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. If you have these skillsets, this visa class is usually far easier than going through the mainstream visa classes (such as the H-1B lottery). In another example, countries like Dubai offer two-year visas to Kiwis that can get a job offer from a UAE employer in the private or public sector.

2. Volunteer Work

​Volunteering abroad can be a rewarding way to experience a new culture while making a positive impact. Various organisations facilitate volunteer placements in different fields, such as education, conservation, or community development. Some programmes may even provide accommodation and living allowances. Generally, you'll need to be on a tourist visa (< 90-day stay) to go through volunteer programmes.

3. Teaching English

​If you're a native English speaker or hold a relevant qualification, teaching English abroad can be a viable option. Many countries, particularly Asia and Latin America, highly demand English teachers. Acquiring a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) or Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) certificate can improve your employability in this field. Generally, Kiwis who want to teach English abroad will likely be on a tourist or student visa (especially if working through an intermediary teaching organisation).

4. Freelancing or Remote Work (Digital Nomad Visas)

As the gig economy and remote work continue to grow, you may be able to work abroad as a freelancer or remote employee. Several countries offer digital nomad visas, allowing individuals to live and work there while employed by a company or self-employed in their home country. For example, Germany, Mexico, Bali and Portugal all offer visas for digital nomads. Generally, to get a digital nomad visa, you'll need to prove you're employed by a company overseas that allows you to work remotely.

5. Start a Business

Starting a business overseas can be exciting if you're an entrepreneur. Many countries offer start-up visas for individuals with innovative business ideas and the potential for economic growth. However, remember that this route may involve a significant investment and a thorough understanding of local regulations and market conditions. For example, Belgium offers a residence permit to those that start a business that directly contributes to the Belgian economy. 

7. “Golden Visas” (Visas by Investment)

Golden visas refer to residency-by-investment programmes various countries offer to attract foreign investors. These schemes allow individuals to obtain residency or citizenship rights in exchange for making substantial investments in the host country. Typically, investments can take the form of real estate purchases, government bonds, or contributions to specific industries or development funds.

Golden visa programmes are particularly popular among affluent individuals seeking to diversify their assets, expand their business opportunities, and access the benefits of residing in another country. Some of these benefits include increased visa-free travel options, better educational and healthcare facilities, and the potential for more favourable tax regimes.

Several countries worldwide offer golden visa schemes, each with its requirements and benefits. Some of the most popular destinations for golden visas include Portugal, Spain, Greece, Malta and Cyprus. 

Frequently Asked Questions related to Working Holiday Visas for Kiwis aged 30+

The list below is limited. However, we have published a list of general questions and answers on our working holiday visas FAQs section which we suggest visiting.

How do I find work while on a working holiday visa?

Finding work while on a working holiday visa will vary depending on the country, local job market, and your skills and experience. Some popular methods for finding work include:
  • Online job boards
  • Employment agencies
  • Networking through social platforms (LinkedIn)
  • Expat communities (such as the "Kiwis in London" Facebook page

Additionally, some countries may have job search resources specifically designed for working holiday visa holders. Most economies are entering into tougher periods with rising interest rates. Therefore, be prepared to be flexible in your job search and consider a variety of industries and roles.

Can I switch to a different visa type while on a working holiday visa?

​Generally, it's not possible to extend your working holiday visa. However, in some cases, you may be able to switch to a different visa type while on a working holiday visa. This depends on the host country, your circumstances, and the specific visa requirements. For example, depending on your situation, you may be eligible to apply for a skilled worker, partner, or student visa after your working holiday visa ends. Make sure to plan and consult the immigration offices of the host country EARLY to ensure you're not trying to switch visa types just as your working holiday visa is about to expire.
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