Working Holiday Visa
New Zealand
Last updated: December 27, 2025
12 months
$124
2-4 weeks
Medium
About this Visa
This visa lets young people work and travel in New Zealand for up to a year. You can take any job (except permanent work), explore the country, and pay for your trip by working. The visa is special because you don't need a job offer before arriving. You can work for different employers and leave anytime. It's designed for gap year travelers and young adventurers. This visa is currently active and accepting applications (December 2024).
Key Benefits
- Work any job except permanent employment
- Study or do courses for up to 6 months
- Leave and return to New Zealand anytime while visa is valid
- Earn minimum wage NZD $23.50/hour as of April 2025
- No work hour restrictions beyond employer limits
- Can work for multiple employers sequentially
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Age 18-30 years old (18-35 for Argentina, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Finland, Hungary, Slovakia, Uruguay)
- First time applying only - can only get this visa ONCE in your life
- No criminal record
- In good health
- Must intend to return home after visa ends
- Cannot bring dependent children
- Must be citizen of one of 45 eligible countries
- Must have valid passport
Financial Requirement
You must have NZD $4,200 (about USD $2,450) to show you can support yourself. You can show bank statements, savings, or other proof of funds.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be good for at least 3 months after you leave NZ
- Proof of moneyNZD $4,200 shown via bank statements or savings
- Medical certificateRequired if staying more than 6 months
- Police clearance certificateRequired if you have lived in any country for more than 1 year in the last 10 years
- Travel or health insurance approval letterMust show comprehensive hospitalization coverage
- Proof of return ticket or fundsEvidence of return travel or money to purchase departure ticket
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.