Working Holiday Visa (Standard - 18-30, 12 months)
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 365 days
- Processing time
- 2-4 weeks
- Fee
- NZD 455
- Validity
- 12 months from entry
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Available to young people aged 18-30 from countries with working holiday agreements with New Zealand. Allows travel, work, and study (up to 6 months). Some countries have annual quotas (e.g., Brazil 300, China 1,000, South Korea 3,000, Philippines 100). Must have NZD 4,200 in available funds plus a return ticket or equivalent funds. Austria and Malaysia schemes are for 6 months only.
Eligibility
-
Nationality
Must be a citizen of an eligible working holiday scheme country.
-
Age
Must be aged 18-30 at the time of application (inclusive).
Max age: 30; Min age: 18
-
Financial
Must have at least NZD 4,200 in available funds and a return ticket or funds to purchase one.
Minimum funds: NZD 4,200
-
Health
Must meet health requirements. Chest X-ray may be required.
-
Visa history
Must not have previously held a working holiday visa for New Zealand from the same scheme.
Required history: No prior NZ working holiday visa
Documents you need
-
Passport
Validity months: 15
-
Proof of funds
Minimum amount: NZD 4,200
-
Flight reservation
Provide flight booking or itinerary evidence when the route asks for travel plans.
Must be confirmed: No; Must show return: No
-
Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Credit/debit card; Amount: NZD 455
How to apply
-
Online application
Apply online through Immigration New Zealand when your country's quota opens (if applicable).
-
Document submission
Upload passport, proof of funds, travel insurance, and any required health certificates.
-
Fee payment
Pay application fee (NZD 455 standard, varies by nationality).
-
Processing wait
Wait 2-4 weeks for processing.
-
Visa collection
If approved, visa is linked to your passport. Enter New Zealand within 12 months.