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Working Holiday Requirements: North America

All applicants for the New Zealand Working Holiday Visa must meet general requirements set out in the Generic Temporary Entry Policy, as well as be able to fulfil specific requirements based on their country of origin.

The following countries from North America have Working Holiday Visa agreements with New Zealand:

• Canada; and
• United States of America.

Canada

This scheme allows 2,000 young citizens of Canada annually:

Note: From 30 November 2009, the age requirements will change for Canadian citizens, who will then be eligible provided they are aged no less than 18 years of age and no more than 35 years of age

• To be issued a Work Visa valid for travel for 12 months from date of issue, and upon arrival in New Zealand to be granted a Work Permit for a maximum of 12 months; or
• If applying from within New Zealand, to be granted a Work Permit valid for a maximum of 12 months.

To be eligible for a Work Visa/Permit under this scheme, applicants must:

• Be citizens of Canada at the time of applying; and
• Have a minimum of NZ$4,200 available funds for their maintenance during the period of stay in New Zealand.

United States of America

This scheme allows 5,000 young citizens of the United States of America (USA) annually:

• To be issued a Work Visa valid for travel for 12 months from date of issue, and upon arrival in New Zealand to be granted a Work Permit for a maximum of 12 months; or
• If applying from within New Zealand, to be granted a Work Permit valid for a maximum of 12 months.

To be eligible for a Work Visa/Permit under this scheme, applicants must:

• Be citizens of the USA at the time of applying;
• Have a minimum of NZ$4,200 available funds for their maintenance during the period of stay in New Zealand; and
• Agree to hold medical and comprehensive hospitalisation insurance that will remain current throughout their stay in New Zealand.