Working Holiday Visa
Country-specific work-and-travel visas for young people from 40+ partner countries.
Official New Zealand pageWho this route is for
Young people (generally 18-30, or 18-35 for some countries) from one of New Zealand's 40+ working holiday partner countries who want to travel and work temporarily.
Eligibility requirements
- Be a citizen of an eligible working holiday scheme country (each scheme has its own rules and annual cap)
- Be aged 18-30 (or up to 35 for select countries such as Argentina, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Finland, Hungary, Slovakia, the UK and Uruguay)
- Have at least NZD $4,200 for living costs plus a return ticket or funds to buy one
- Be of good health and good character and hold or intend to hold medical and travel insurance
Requirements reviewed July 2026. They change frequently — confirm the current rules on the official page before relying on them.
Recent changes & caveats
Each country scheme is a separate visa with its own age range, cap, duration and conditions. Holders can work (often with limits on the same employer) and study up to 6 months. Some schemes offer a Working Holiday Extension for seasonal/horticulture work.
Other New Zealand routes
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
TemporaryNew Zealand's main employer-sponsored temporary work visa.
Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Limited Visa
TemporarySeasonal work in horticulture and viticulture under an annual cap.
Visitor Visa
TemporaryShort-term visa for tourism, visiting family, or short courses of study.
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
PermanentPoints-based residence for skilled workers, scored against the NZ median wage.