Working Holiday Visas (WHV) Directory for Young New Zealand Citizens
- New Zealanders continue to travel overseas and take the classic OE, but the choices of working destination have never been so numerous.
- Working Holiday Visa schemes, specifically set up for young adults, offer qualifying New Zealand passport holders a choice of dozens of countries to live and work in for a set period of time.
- Our research team sourced all publicly available data and email the relevant local and foreign government departments or embassies to create a directory that we believe to be the first of its kind. Where information has been scarce, we have relied on third-party websites and information that publish guidance on Working Holiday Visas generally rather than NZ-centric rules and regulations.
- Before applying for any visa, we suggest to read the latest terms and conditions published by the relevant embassy or consular service given information can, in some situations, change without warning.
- Important: The information on this page has been gathered from the most updated sources but may become outdated occasionally due to government changes that we’re not notified about.
Our guide covers:What is a Working Holiday Visa, Why do they Exist and Why do People Take Working Holidays?
MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh shares his views on working holidays:
|
"Working holidays are fantastic, and the New Zealand passport gives you a huge choice of countries. I’ve worked in Sydney and London and found both experiences richly rewarding. In both cases, I went alone – it’s not scary to do so, but you’ll need to have enough saved up to make it comfortable".
"In my 20s, I’d stay at backpackers in Australia on holiday. They were full of New Zealanders living there trapped in a cycle of irregular work hours, no savings, no fixed accommodation and general uncertainty. That’s not a fun way to spend time abroad – thankfully, I learned from the endless plastic bags of stuff under people’s beds and saved up to arrive in London to buy me some time and flexibility". "Whatever you do, it will be fun, and there is life beyond the UK, Canada and Ireland. I’m thrilled to see 40+ countries worldwide issuing working holiday visas to New Zealanders – there has never been a better time with more choices available”. |
MoneyHub Founder
Christopher Walsh |
What is a Working Holiday Visa, Why do they Exist and Why do People Take Working Holidays?
- They allow individuals to work and travel in a foreign country for a specific period (typically one year).
- They provide young adults with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture, lifestyle, and traditions of another country. It enables them to understand the world better, develop new skills, and broaden their horizons.
- They offer a chance for participants to work while travelling, helping them finance their adventures and support themselves during their stay.
- Furthermore, by encouraging young people to experience life in different countries, working holiday visas help to build connections and foster goodwill between nations, contributing to stronger international relationships and increased understanding between diverse cultures.
A working holiday visa works similarly to a gap year. It's a great alternative for those impacted by COVID-19 who were unable to take a gap year before university (or those who decided to head straight into university after college without travelling). Similar to the strength of the New Zealand passport in accessing countries visa-free, New Zealand citizens are relatively lucky to have a large range of working holiday visas available to them – 40+ countries are on offer.
There are many benefits to taking a working holiday, including the opportunity to gain work experience in a foreign country, improve language skills, experience a new culture, make new friends from around the world and travel and explore new places.
Working holiday visas typically allow individuals to work in any field. However, some countries may restrict the type of work that can be done.
Are there any Restrictions associated with Working Holiday Visas?
- Limited work duration: Many countries restrict the number of months that can be worked on a working holiday visa (usually up to 3 or 6 months).
- Limited study duration: Study or training courses can only be enrolled for less than six months.
- Limited visa length: Working holiday visas are typically granted for one year and generally aren’t able to be extended or taken twice.
- Restricted work type: Most countries state that only casual, contract or temporary work can be done on a working holiday visa.
MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh shares his views on anyone looking for a money option when working overseas:
|
"The Wise card is incredibly useful for any young New Zealander exploring the world. Banks simply don't deliver on value, transparency and speed - Wise is different. It handles multiple currencies, so it's perfect for any country where our passports can get a visa.
The card's real-time currency conversion and minimal fees provide a seamless financial experience. The money you earn (in New Zealand or overseas) can be paid into the Wise account, and you can then spend it locally, overseas or send it back to New Zealand (or anywhere) with the best rates and lowest fees. This makes Wise perfect for anyone on a working holiday or making a move more permanent. Wise's robust security features ensure peace of mind, while its user-friendly nature allows for effortless management of travel expenses, from accommodation to local dining experiences. I am a huge fan of Wise - every time I go overseas, it's topped up with NZD, and I know that no one else is going to give me better rates and more transparency around every dollar I've earned, or Euro, Pound or Peso I spend. Wise remains incredibly popular on social media (Reddit, Facebook groups), and I can confidently say it's a perfect solution for my needs and every other New Zealander I seem to meet overseas". |
MoneyHub Founder
Christopher Walsh |
What are the Main Eligibility Criteria for a Working Holiday Visa?
Each country has specific requirements and application processes for working holiday visas. However, most working holiday visas for the 40+ countries listed below will have similar terms and conditions associated with eligibility criteria and the application process. Some of these factors include:
- Be a citizen of New Zealand.
- Possess a valid New Zealand passport for the duration of your stay.
- Generally, your visa can't be valid for longer than your passport is valid. It's recommended to check and ensure your passport is valid for at least three months after the last day of your intended visa period.
- Aged between eighteen and thirty years (for most countries) or thirty-five (35) years (for a few select countries).
- Not accompanied by dependents or family (the visa application is for you alone).
- Possess a return ticket (or have sufficient funds to purchase a ticket while living in the host country).
- Pay the visa application fee (anywhere from $0 - $200+ New Zealand Dollars depending on currency rates).
- Take out and hold valid health/medical/travel insurance (generally from a well-known insurer) active for your entire stay in the host country.
- Possess sufficient funds to fund your expenses during your stay in the host country (these fund thresholds vary by country and are at the discretion of the relevant authorities but usually sit at a few thousand New Zealand Dollars).
- The primary intention is to visit as a tourist, take a holiday, and experience the culture (with working and studying being secondary considerations but permitted with some limitations most of the time).
- Have a clean police record (no criminal convictions).
- Comply with any health requirements imposed by the host country.
- Immigration officers/border patrols ultimately can decide whether you're allowed into the country.
- For example, if they're not convinced that your primary intention to enter the country is for holiday purposes, they can cancel your visa and deny entry.
- Most working holiday visas are valid for one year and aren't renewable.
- The visa conditions attached to working holiday visas ultimately sit with the host country and can change without notice.
Requirements for the Working Holiday Visa Application Process for SOME Countries:
- Get a medical certificate proving you’re in good health (e.g. x-ray, medical assessment).
- Certain host countries will set annual quotas on the number of people participating in the Working Holiday Programme annually. These caps are usually a few hundred annually.
- Some host countries have study or degree prerequisites requiring you to provide evidence that you've partially or fully completed secondary or tertiary education.
- For example, to be eligible for the J1 visa in the USA, you must have completed your first university year or graduated within the last 12 months).
- In another example, a tertiary education qualification (minimum of three years) is required to be eligible for a working holiday visa in Turkey.
- The host country may require you to translate and verify your documentation. Make sure you supply all the relevant attachments to your visa application. If necessary or required, have them translated and validated. Your visa application may be delayed or declined if you’ve not included the right attachments.
- For some countries (such as Italy or Belgium), as a condition of your visa, you’ll need to register with the nearest immigration department or police station within around5 - 10 days of arriving in the host country.
Rules and Regulations for WHVs to European Countries:
- Generally, when applying for a European WHV, you can be employed without a work permit. However, you'll likely be unable to take up permanent employment (except for countries like the United Kingdom).
- You may enrol in one training or study course for up to 6 months.
What are the Top Destinations that New Zealanders Can Get Working Holiday Visas For?
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom offers a rich cultural experience, and its strong historical connection with New Zealand makes it an attractive destination for Kiwis. With the opportunity to work and travel across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the UK provides diverse experiences. Additionally, due to the incoming increased age threshold (up to 35 years old), extended tenure of the WHV (2 years, but will be increased to 3 years in June 2023) and proximity to greater Europe, The UK is almost always the top destination for Kiwis looking to take an "OE" (Overseas Experience).
Canada
Known for its stunning landscapes, friendly people, and multicultural cities, Canada is another popular choice for New Zealanders. Due to the increased age threshold (up to 35 years old), extended tenure of the WHV (2 years) and proximity to the USA and South America, it's also a popular working holiday destination (especially for those that ski or snowboard).
Japan
Japan offers a unique opportunity for those interested in experiencing a completely different culture. The working holiday program between New Zealand and Japan allows Kiwis to work and travel throughout the country, exploring its rich history, unique cities, and stunning natural landscapes. Those that value a unique, differentiated culture and quality snow resorts are naturally drawn to Japan.
Ireland
With its rich culture, history, and welcoming atmosphere, Ireland is an appealing destination for Kiwis. The Working Holiday Visa program between New Zealand and Ireland enables young New Zealanders to experience life on the Emerald Isle.
These are just a few destinations available to New Zealanders through the Working Holiday Visa programs. We've included the full list in the tables below.
Must-Know Facts about Working Holiday Visas for New Zealanders.
1. The working holiday visa age thresholds are INCLUSIVE of the ages stated
2. Generally, the age cutoff for the working holiday visa only applies at the time of application
3. Some working holiday visa schemes suspended due to COVID-19 may still be inactive
4. You might need to travel to the nearest embassy/consulate to physically submit your working holiday visa application or validate supporting documents
5. Try to plan out the best time to take your working holiday visas
6. The cost of living will vary hugely depending on which country you decide to go to
7. Embassies and consular services are not likely to be lenient on late visa applications
MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh shares his views on anyone looking for a money option when working overseas:
|
"The Wise card is incredibly useful for any young New Zealander exploring the world. Banks simply don't deliver on value, transparency and speed - Wise is different. It handles multiple currencies, so it's perfect for any country where our passports can get a visa.
The card's real-time currency conversion and minimal fees provide a seamless financial experience. The money you earn (in New Zealand or overseas) can be paid into the Wise account, and you can then spend it locally, overseas or send it back to New Zealand (or anywhere) with the best rates and lowest fees. This makes Wise perfect for anyone on a working holiday or making a move more permanent. Wise's robust security features ensure peace of mind, while its user-friendly nature allows for effortless management of travel expenses, from accommodation to local dining experiences. I am a huge fan of Wise - every time I go overseas, it's topped up with NZD, and I know that no one else is going to give me better rates and more transparency around every dollar I've earned, or Euro, Pound or Peso I spend. Wise remains incredibly popular on social media (Reddit, Facebook groups), and I can confidently say it's a perfect solution for my needs and every other New Zealander I seem to meet overseas". |
MoneyHub Founder
Christopher Walsh |
Frequently Asked Questions related to Working Holiday Visas for New Zealanders
What’s the typical WHV application process?
- Complete and submit the online visa application form online. You'll receive an application number and receipt. Make sure to save this somewhere secure.
- Gather the requested documents: passport, ID photo, copy of your birth certificate, proof of sufficient funds, police certificate, completed and signed application form, round-trip ticket (or proof of sufficient funds to purchase one), medical/travel insurance etc.
- Send your application package to the nearest relevant consulate or embassy of the host country (either in New Zealand or Australia).
- Respond or comply with any follow-up requests made by the embassy/consulate.
What’s the average processing time for working holiday visas?
Generally, once you've applied for a working holiday visa and there aren't any problems with submission (e.g. you've attached all the relevant documents), it'll likely be processed anywhere from a week to three months (5 to 90 days). The significant variability in processing times stems from whether the host country needs multiple authorisations from senior officials (such as the Consulate General or other immigration officials offshore). If you don't fill in your working holiday visa application correctly, visa processing will take longer.
Some countries are quicker to turn around visa applications (for example, while not applicable to New Zealand residents given SCV 444, Australia processes 90% of all working holiday visa applications within 14 days), while most countries will take months (such as Denmark, with a standard visa processing time of 3 months). However, it's recommended to be conservative in how long you expect the visa application approval to take and allow up to 3 months, recognising that visa processing can experience unexpected delays.
What kinds of activities can I undertake while on a WHV?
- “Holidaying” or experiencing the culture of the host country.
- Temporary employment as work experience.
- Short study courses.
- Language learning.
- Academic research.
Is it possible to extend a working holiday visa?
Do I need to apply for a working holiday visa before or after I arrive in the country?
Do I need health insurance for a working holiday visa?
Can I travel outside the country on a working holiday visa?
Can I bring my family with me on a working holiday visa?
Do I need a job lined up before applying for a working holiday visa?
What are the top tips for making the most of Working Holiday Visas?
- Research the country, its rules, regulations and cultural nuances before you leave.
- Take advantage of work and travel opportunities while abroad.
- Meet new people and make connections rather than just visiting tourist hotspots.
- Be open to new experiences that you wouldn't otherwise pursue while staying in New Zealand.
- Stay organised and track important documents and deadlines. (visa approvals, where you're staying, flights, insurance, job contracts etc.)
I’m nearly 31 (or 36) years old. Is it still possible to obtain a visa?
I plan to apply for the visa before turning 31 (or 36), but I won't enter the host country until after my 31st (or 36th) birthday. Is this acceptable?
Is a chest x-ray or medical examination required for Working Holiday Visas?
I have a child. Can I still obtain a Working Holiday Visa?
I applied for a Working Holiday Visa and got rejected. So why didn't I qualify?
- Ineligible passport: You can only qualify for a working holiday visa if your passport is from an eligible country.
- Age: You must be under 31 (or 36 in some countries) when you apply for your visa to qualify for a Working Holiday Visa. If you're over 31 (or 36), you cannot qualify for a Working Holiday Visa. There are no exceptions to this rule.
I have a Working Holiday Visa and have worked for nearly six months with one employer. What are my options?
In some cases, there may be lawful ways to work beyond the six-month limit. One option is to request your employer to sponsor you. You can begin the process by contacting your employer about starting this sponsorship process (if applicable in the host country). Your employer will likely need to work with the government to prove that your skillset is essential (and that they can't find someone locally to fill this role). Note that this is a long-winded process; not every employer will want to go down this track.
Summary Table – Americas
|
Country |
Eligible Age |
Type |
Duration |
Any Other Things to Note |
Contact for More Information |
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, Work and Study. |
Up to 12 months. |
|||
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18 - 30 years old. |
Live, Work and Study (with specific work and duration restrictions). |
Up to 12 months. |
It's mandatory to register at the nearest federal police station within 30 days of your arrival. |
Brazil Ministry of Foreign Relations.
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|
|
18 - 35 years old. |
Live and Work. |
Up to 23 months. If you participated in International Experience Canada (IEC) before April 2, 2015, you're no longer eligible to apply. |
Known as International Experience Canada (IEC). Processing fee of 160 Canadian Dollars. You can only participate once. |
||
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18 - 35 years old. |
Live and work. (short-term employment only) |
Up to 12 months. |
Must be ordinarily residing in New Zealand at the time of application. Apply for this visa online at the Chilean Migration National Service. |
||
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18 - 30 years old. |
Live, work and study. (work or study for the same employer/course for three months max) |
Up to 12 months. |
Immigration officers can refuse entrance to Mexico, even if you carry a valid visa. |
||
|
Not age-dependent. Must be a post-secondary student or recent graduate. |
Live and work. (operates under the Summer Work Travel Programme) |
Up to 12 months. |
The J1 Student Visa is the closest thing to a working holiday visa that the USA offers to Kiwis. Must have graduated from university in their home country within the last 12 months. |
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18 - 30 years old. |
Live, work and study. Permanent employment is not permitted. You can't work for the same employer for more than three months. You can enrol in training or study courses for up to 3 months. |
Up to 12 months. Key permitted activities include Holidays, Temporary employment as work experience, Short courses, Spanish language learning, Academic research and Cultural experiences. |
A personal interview with the Head of the Peruvian Consular Section is required as part of the visa application process. This interview can be conducted in person or virtually. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, work and study. |
Up to 12 months. |
An annual cap of 200 working holiday visas is available yearly for New Zealanders visiting Uruguay. Kiwis will likely need to make an appointment at the nearest Uruguayan Consular Office to provide supporting documents. |
Uruguayan Embassy in Canberra, Australia. Embassy of Uruguay in Sweden (the Working Holiday Scheme details apply to New Zealanders). |
Summary Table – Scandinavia
|
Country |
Eligible Age |
Type |
Duration |
Any Other Things to Note |
Contact for More Information |
|
18 - 35 years old. |
Live, Work and Study. (Work as secondary priority) |
Up to 12 months. |
Known as a Residence Permit. You’ll need to provide a document showing that you're legally staying in the country where you apply. There are no restrictions on the work you can undertake in Finland. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, Work and Study. (However, the work must be temporary.) |
Up to 12 months. |
Known as a Residence Permit. You don't need to have an offer of employment when you apply for a residence permit. Instead, you can look for work after you have come to Sweden. |
Sweden-New Zealand Bilateral Working Holiday Visa agreement. |
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|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, Work and Study. (with certain restrictions below). You can't work for the same employer for more than six months. You can't get this visa if you intend to study for over three months. If you want to study in Norway for over three months, you must apply for a study permit. If you're granted a study permit, you can also work up to 20 hours a week while studying (and full-time during holidays). |
Up to 12 months. You'll need full medical & hospital insurance before entering Norway. |
Known as a Residence Permit. You need to pay an application fee of around$1,000. You need enough money for the first three months of your stay ( minimum of aroundNZD 6,000). |
Norwegian Directorate of Immigration. The Norwegian Directorate of Immigration has made an online questionnaire to identify how Kiwis can apply for a residence permit. To apply, complete an online application form and hand deliver it to the VFS Visa Application Centre in Auckland. |
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|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, Work and Study. (Work to a limited extent.) You can work for up to 6 months but can't work for the same employer for more than three months or take a regular job. You can attend courses or enrol in an educational programme for up to 6 months. You can’t engage in independent business activities on the Residence Permit. |
Up to 12 months. Normal processing time is aroundthree months. The processing fee is DKK 1,890 (aroundNZD 450). |
Known as a Residence Permit. You need full comprehensive health insurance (including hospitalisation) covering you during your stay. You need sufficient funds to pay for food and accommodation during your stay (DKK 24,000 or aroundNZD 6,000). You must be able to pay for your flight home (DKK 5,000 or aroundNZD 1,200). |
“New To Denmark” has developed a detailed step-by-step breakdown of how to apply on their website. Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). If you apply earlier than six months before your target stay in Denmark, your application will get rejected, and you won't receive a refund for the application fee. |
Summary Table – Europe
|
Country |
Eligible Age |
Type |
Duration |
Any Other Things to Note |
Contact for More Information |
|
(National Visa - Visa D class). |
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and Work (Study permitted). |
Up to 6 months. |
$150 Euro Fee (around$250 NZD). Health/travel insurance is required for the entirety of your stay (minimum policy cover amount of 30,000 Euro or aroundNZD 53,000). |
The Federal Ministry Republic of Austria. The visa application can be submitted at the Austrian Embassy in Australia or the VFS Auckland branch (where biometric data can be collected). |
|
(National long-stay visa - D class) |
18 - 30 years old. |
Live only. (Working and studying restrictions apply). |
Up to 12 months. |
Minimum of 2.5k Euros to support themselves for the duration of their stay. You must report to the relevant area municipal administration within eight days of entering Belgium, register in the foreigners' register and get a permit (card A). |
Office Des Estrangers (Belgium Immigration Office) (Use google translate to convert to English). The list of Belgian embassies and consulates is published on the FPS Foreign Affairs website. |
|
[Note: Croatia issues no working holiday visa, but you'll be applying for a temporary stay as regulated by the Act on status and work of aliens.] |
18 - 30 years old. |
Work, Live and Study. (Working and studying are of "secondary importance"). Work is capped at three months with each employer. Study courses/training cannot exceed six months in duration. |
Up to 12 months. |
Known as a temporary stay permit. Processing time of aroundtwo months. Since you do not need a visa to enter Croatia, your application can be processed before your intended trip to Croatia (in this event, you apply via the Croatian Embassy/Consulate) or once you arrive in Croatia (in the respective Police Office/Station). |
Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs. To apply, fill out this application form. |
|
18 - 35 years old. |
Live, work and study. (Study limited to 6 months maximum. Work cannot be permanent employment). |
Up to 12 months. |
Processing time is within 60 days. The Ministry of Interior of the Czech Republic must approve a long-term visa. Applications for the WHV must be submitted to the Consulate General in Sydney in person. Submission by mail is possible only in exceptional, justified cases at the discretion of the Consulate General. |
Consulate General of the Czech Republic in Sydney. Contact the visa section of the consulate in advance via email. |
|
|
18 - 30 years old. |
(The work carried out during this period must contribute to the main purpose of staying in the country, which is to rest in Estonia.) |
Up to 12 months. |
Estonia has a bilateral agreement with New Zealand for the "Working Holiday Visa". However, to apply for this visa, New Zealanders need to apply for a long-stay (D class) visa. As of 2023, Estonia has no working relationship with the VFS global offices in New Zealand. Therefore, Kiwis must travel to Australia to apply for a visa to Estonia. |
Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Republic of Estonia. The initial application process can be done through the Embassy of Estonia in Australia. For further context, check out the OIO request information for Kiwi Working Holiday Visas to Estonia. |
|
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work only. (studying under a separate visa. Long-term employment is not permitted.) |
Up to 12 months. |
Apply through the French consulate or online. |
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|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work. (self-employed or freelance is restricted. Studying is under a separate student visa.) |
Up to 12 months. |
One year with the same employer. |
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|
18 - 35 years old. |
Live, Work and Study. (Can't study for more than three months. Can't work for the same employer for more than three months). |
Up to 12 months. |
Known as a Temporary Residence Permit. Annual cap of 100 temporary residence permits/visas for Kiwis. |
National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing. Official Provisions in the Working Holiday Agreement.
|
|
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work. (permanent employment is restricted) |
Up to 12 months. |
Known as a Working Holiday Authorisation. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work. (Working restricted to 6 months total, max three months with the same employer) |
Up to 12 months. |
Apply through the Italian Embassy in Wellington. A fully comprehensive insurance policy is required (with unlimited medical and hospital cover for the entire stay - up to 30,000 Euros or aroundNZD 53,000). |
Italian Institute New Zealand. You can find the official guidance for Italy’s working holiday visa at the Italian Embassy. Apply at the Questura (Police) in a major town or city nearest to where you will be staying (not the smaller police stations) within eight days of arriving in Italy. |
|
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work. |
Up to 12 months. |
Known as a residence and work permit. |
Official Working Holiday Visa documentation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Further context on visas from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Republic of Latvia. |
|
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, work and study (working and studying are secondary considerations). |
Up to 12 months. |
Known as a cultural exchange program. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, Work and Study. You can do any kind of work if your prospective employer obtains an employment licence on your behalf from Identity Malta. |
Up to 12 months. (With the option to apply for a 2nd year consecutively). |
Sportsmanship and entertainment are not included in the working holiday scheme. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work. (The only work that's allowed is that of an incidental nature to support your holiday financially). |
Up to 12 months. |
Known as a residence permit. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, work and study. |
Up to 12 months. |
- |
||
|
18 - 35 years old. |
Live, work and study. (Work and study must be incidental/secondary purpose) |
Up to 12 months. |
The same employer can't permanently employ you for over six months. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, work and study. (Casual employment only. Three months max per employer. Three months of study/training courses allowed) |
Up to 12 months. |
Known as a type D national visa. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, work and study. (Work for a maximum of 6 months) |
Up to 12 months. |
Up to 200 visa slots per year. |
|
|
|
|
18 - 35 years old. |
Live, work and study. |
Up to 3 years. |
No cap for New Zealanders applying for UK visas of this type. |
|
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, work and study. (Work capped at three months maximum study must be incidental/secondary purpose) |
Up to 12 months. |
Capped at 100 visas per year. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work. (work up to 3 months at any one employer) |
Up to 12 months. |
Apply via the Israeli Embassy in Wellington. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, work and study. |
Up to 12 months. |
Tertiary education qualification (minimum three years) required. |
** = Improved Working Holiday Visa scheme between the UK and NZ has been signed and is coming into force in June 2023.
Summary Table – Asia
|
Country |
Eligible Age |
Type |
Duration |
Any Other Things to Note |
Contact for More Information |
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, work and study. (Max 3 months working for the same employer. Max one course up to 3 months) |
Up to 12 months. |
There's a quota of 100 visas each year. |
Hong Kong Immigration Department.
|
|
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work. (Casual/temporary work only to supplement funds) |
Up to 12 months. |
You must reside in New Zealand at the time of application. |
||
|
[The Malaysian Embassy has confirmed that the NZ-Malaysia work and holiday scheme is not currently running for New Zealanders.] |
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work. |
Up to 12 months. |
N/A. |
Malaysian High Commission in Wellington. Application form (n.b. Intended for Australians - not applicable to Kiwis). |
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live, work and study. (Employment and Studying are incidental only). |
Up to 12 months. |
Annual cap of 100 visas for New Zealanders (as of 2014). Globally recognised medical and comprehensive hospitalisation insurance must be held for your stay. |
||
|
18 - 25 years old. |
Live and work only. |
Up to 6 months. |
Known as the Work Holiday Programme. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Life, work and study. (work is capped at 25 hours per week) |
Up to 12 months. |
An annual quota of 3000 visas for Kiwis. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work only. (Visa prohibits study or full-time jobs) |
Up to 12 months. |
- |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work only. (Max 3 months per employer) |
Up to 12 months. |
Must have completed tertiary education (minimum three years of full-time study). Need a minimum of $7,000 for living expenses. Must be residing in New Zealand at the time of application. |
||
|
18 - 30 years old. |
Live and work. |
Up to 12 months. |
|||
|
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh shares his views on anyone looking for a money option when working overseas:
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"The Wise card is incredibly useful for any young New Zealander exploring the world. Banks simply don't deliver on value, transparency and speed - Wise is different. It handles multiple currencies, so it's perfect for any country where our passports can get a visa.
The card's real-time currency conversion and minimal fees provide a seamless financial experience. The money you earn (in New Zealand or overseas) can be paid into the Wise account, and you can then spend it locally, overseas or send it back to New Zealand (or anywhere) with the best rates and lowest fees. This makes Wise perfect for anyone on a working holiday or making a move more permanent. Wise's robust security features ensure peace of mind, while its user-friendly nature allows for effortless management of travel expenses, from accommodation to local dining experiences. I am a huge fan of Wise - every time I go overseas, it's topped up with NZD, and I know that no one else is going to give me better rates and more transparency around every dollar I've earned, or Euro, Pound or Peso I spend. Wise remains incredibly popular on social media (Reddit, Facebook groups), and I can confidently say it's a perfect solution for my needs and every other New Zealander I seem to meet overseas". |
MoneyHub Founder
Christopher Walsh |
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