Working Holiday Visa (WHV): The Complete Guide (Countries, Requirements, Costs & Insurance)
Every year, tens of thousands of young travelers apply for a Working Holiday Visa (WHV) to live abroad while working legally for several months. Popular destinations such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand consistently attract a large share of Working Holiday participants thanks to their lifestyle, job opportunities, and long-stay options.
The Working Holiday Visa, sometimes referred to as a Working Holiday or Youth Mobility visa, is based on bilateral agreements between countries, which means that eligibility criteria, visa duration, age limits, quotas, and entry requirements vary depending on the destination and can change over time.
Before applying for a WHV, it is essential to understand what to expect: which countries are available, who is eligible, how much budget to plan for, what work is allowed, and how healthcare and unexpected events are handled abroad.
👉 This guide is designed to help you understand how the Working Holiday Visa works, anticipate key requirements, and prepare your WHV project with confidence, including choosing appropriate travel insurance for your stay.
- A Working Holiday Visa allows you to travel and work legally, but rules vary significantly by country.
- Age limits, visa length, and quotas depend on bilateral agreements and must be checked officially.
- Proof of funds and return/onward travel may be verified at the border, even after visa approval.
- Healthcare abroad can be very expensive from day one, especially in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
- Travel insurance is mandatory in some countries and strongly recommended everywhere.
- Insurance should cover the full length of your WHV, including side trips if planned.
- Working conditions are often temporary and regulated, with limits in some countries.
- Planning budget, insurance, and paperwork early greatly reduces risks and stress during your stay.
What is a Working Holiday Visa (WHV)?
A Working Holiday Visa (WHV) is a visa issued under bilateral agreements between countries that allows young travelers to live abroad and work legally for a limited period. It is designed for people who want to combine long-term travel with short-term jobs to support their stay.
The exact rules depend on the destination. Visa duration, age limits, eligibility requirements, quotas, and entry conditions vary by country and may change over time, so applicants must always check the official immigration authority before applying.
👉 A WHV allows you to:
- Travel within the host country
- Work legally in temporary or short-term jobs
- Combine work and travel over several months, often up to 12 months or more, depending on the country
To be well prepared for your WHV, you need to replace the health coverage you have in your home country and make sure you are protected against medical expenses, accidents, and emergencies abroad.
Get your Working Holiday insurance certificate in 2 minutes
Working Holiday Visa vs tourist visa vs work visa
- A tourist visa does not allow paid work.
- A work visa is usually tied to a specific employer and job.
- A Working Holiday Visa offers more flexibility, allowing legal work while traveling, within certain limits.
You may see different names for similar programs:
- Working Holiday Visa (WHV) or Working Holiday
- Working Holiday Maker (Australia)
- IEC – International Experience Canada
- Youth Mobility or Youth Mobility Scheme
👉 Despite the different terminology, these visas all follow the same principle: temporary residence combined with the right to work.
Which countries offer Working Holiday Visas?
The list of available destinations, as well as their conditions, varies depending on your nationality and the host country’s immigration rules.
The table below highlights some of the most popular Working Holiday Visa destinations, which consistently attract a large number of applicants each year. Other partner countries also exist, often with more specific or less competitive conditions.
Top Working Holiday Visa destinations (overview)
Country | Typical age range | Typical visa length | Quotas / availability | Extensions or renewals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
🇦🇺 Australia | 18–30 or 18–35 | Up to 12 months | No annual quota | Possible second and third WHV (up to 24 or 36 months) under specific conditions |
🇨🇦 Canada | 18–30 or 18–35 | Up to 12–24 months | Yes (limited places) | No extension, but other permits may be available |
🇳🇿 New Zealand | 18–30 or 18–35 | Up to 12 months | No fixed quota | Possible 3-month extension under specific conditions |
🇯🇵 Japan | 18–30 | Up to 12 months | Yes (limited places) | No extension |
🇮🇪 Ireland | 18–30 or 18–35 | Up to 12 months | Limited places | No extension |
Age limits, visa duration, and availability depend on nationality and local rules and may change. Always check the official immigration website before applying.
Australia, Canada and New Zealand together represent a significant share of all Working Holiday Visas issued annually across major WHV programs.
Most searched Working Holiday Visa destinations
- Australia: flexible work options, extensions available, high demand
- Canada: popular lifestyle destination with structured quotas
- New Zealand: travel-oriented WHV with seasonal work opportunities
- Japan: culturally focused WHV with stricter entry conditions
- Ireland: European WHV option with limited places
These destinations account for a large share of Working Holiday Visa applications worldwide each year.
How to choose the right WHV destination
Choosing a Working Holiday destination depends on several factors:
- Budget and cost of living, which can vary significantly between countries
- Job availability and demand, especially for seasonal or entry-level work
- Travel style and climate, including urban vs outdoor experiences
- Seasonality, which affects job opportunities and living costs
- Healthcare costs and insurance requirements, which vary by region
👉 These differences directly affect budget planning, visa strategy, and travel insurance needs, making destination choice a key step in preparing a successful Working Holiday experience.
General eligibility requirements
Eligibility requirements for a Working Holiday Visa (WHV) vary by destination, but most programs share a common set of criteria. These typically relate to the applicant’s age, financial resources, passport validity, and, in some cases, WHV insurance coverage for the entire stay.
The table below outlines the general requirements for some of the most popular Working Holiday destinations. As rules may change, applicants should always confirm details with the official immigration authority of the host country before applying.
Typical Working Holiday Visa requirements by country
Country | Age range | Proof of funds required? | Health insurance required? | Other common conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
🇦🇺 Australia | 18–30 or 18–35 | Yes. Funds may be requested at entry; typically around AUD 5,000 (≈ USD 3,300), excluding return ticket | Not formally required for the visa, but strongly recommended | Valid passport for entire stay; no dependent children; health and character requirements; return/onward travel or funds to purchase it |
🇳🇿 New Zealand | 18–30 or 18–35 | Yes. Official requirement: NZD 4,200 (≈ USD 2,600), excluding return ticket | Yes. Required at entry and may be checked | Valid passport; return/onward travel; health and character requirements; no previous NZ WHV |
🇨🇦 Canada | 18–30 or 18–35 | Yes. Official requirement at entry: CAD 2,500 (≈ USD 1,850) | Yes. Required for the full duration (medical care, hospitalization, repatriation) | Participation in IEC program; selection rounds; limited number of participations; passport valid for entire stay |
🇯🇵 Japan | 18–30 | Yes. Official requirement: approx. JPY 2,000,000 (≈ USD 13,000) | Not formally required, but strongly recommended | No previous Japanese WHV; coherent travel plan; return/onward travel or sufficient funds |
🇰🇷 South Korea | 18–30 | Yes. Official requirement: approx. KRW 3,000,000 (≈ USD 2,200) | Not required for the visa, but recommended | No previous Korean WHV; clean criminal record; medical certificate may be requested |
🇭🇰 Hong Kong | 18–30 | Yes. Official requirement: approx. HKD 20,000 (≈ USD 2,550) | Not formally required, but recommended | Limited annual places; return/onward travel; no previous participation |
🇦🇷 Argentina | 18–30 or 18–35 | Funds may be requested (amount varies) | Varies by current rules; often requested | No previous Argentine WHV; clean criminal record; valid passport |
🇨🇱 Chile | 18–30 | Funds may be requested (amount varies) | Varies by current rules; often requested | No previous Chilean WHV; return/onward travel; clean criminal record |
Applicants may also need to meet health and character requirements, which can include medical checks or criminal record certificates depending on the country. In addition, travelers are often required to hold a return or onward ticket, or demonstrate sufficient funds to buy one if requested by immigration authorities.
The age limit for a Working Holiday Visa varies by country because each program is based on bilateral agreements and national immigration policies. Most WHV schemes are designed for young adults, typically allowing applications between 18 and 30, or 18 and 35 depending on the destination and the applicant’s nationality. The age requirement is usually assessed at the time of application, not at departure.
Proof of funds is a minimum financial requirement set by host countries to ensure that Working Holiday participants can support themselves at the start of their stay.
⚠️ Proof of funds and insurance requirements may be checked at the border, even if not requested during the initial visa application.
Beyond administrative eligibility, travel insurance remains a key part of WHV preparation, especially in countries where healthcare is expensive and public coverage does not apply to non-residents.
Choose the right WHV plan for my tripHow to apply for a WHV (step-by-step)
While the exact process varies by country, most Working Holiday Visa applications follow a similar structure. Below is a general step-by-step overview to help you understand how the application typically works.
Step-by-step WHV application process
- Check eligibility for your chosen country: confirm age limits, nationality requirements, visa length, and whether quotas or selection rounds apply.
- Choose when to apply: some countries accept applications year-round, while others operate with quotas or invitation rounds. Applying early can improve your chances in competitive programs.
- Create an online application account: most Working Holiday Visas are applied for through an official government portal (such as International Experience Canada (IEC) for Canada or ImmiAccount for Australia), where you complete forms and upload documents.
- Prepare required documents: this usually includes a valid passport, proof of funds, and supporting documents depending on the destination.
- Submit the application and pay the visa fee: visa fees vary by country and are generally non-refundable.
- Wait for processing and possible selection: processing times range from a few days to several months, depending on the country, application volume, and whether a selection process is used.
- Receive your visa approval: once approved, you typically receive an electronic visa or approval letter with instructions for entry.
- Prepare for arrival: before departure, ensure you meet entry conditions such as proof of funds, return travel, and insurance where required.
When to apply and typical processing times
There is no single best time to apply for a Working Holiday Visa, as processing times vary significantly by country and demand.
👉 For example, Australia’s Working Holiday Visa applications are often processed within days or a few weeks when eligibility criteria are met. In contrast, Canada’s Working Holiday Visa operates through invitation rounds, meaning applicants may wait several weeks or months before receiving an invitation to apply. New Zealand generally processes applications quickly, but timelines can lengthen during peak travel seasons.
💡 Because timelines depend on country-specific systems and annual demand, applicants should check official immigration websites and apply well in advance, especially if travel dates are fixed or if quotas apply.
Documents commonly required
Although requirements differ by destination, most Working Holiday Visa applications request:
- 🛂 A valid passport covering the intended stay
- 💵 Proof of funds, if applicable
- 📄 A completed application form
- 📸 Supporting documents such as photos, medical or police certificates, where required
- 🛡️Travel insurance, in countries where it is mandatory or strongly recommended
Common reasons for delays or refusal
Applications may be delayed or refused due to avoidable issues, including:
- Applying without meeting age or eligibility requirements
- Incomplete or incorrect application information
- Missing or insufficient supporting documents
- Applying after quotas have been reached
- Not meeting health or character requirements
Careful preparation and early verification of requirements can significantly reduce the risk of delays or refusal.
What happens at the border / on arrival
Entry checks for Working Holiday Visa holders vary by country and are not always systematic, but immigration officers may verify that you still meet the visa conditions at the time of arrival. Being prepared helps avoid delays or issues at the border.
Proof of funds and onward travel checks
Border officers may ask for evidence of sufficient funds to cover your initial expenses and, in many cases, a return or onward ticket (or proof that you can purchase one). This check helps confirm that you can support yourself before finding work. Even if proof of funds was not requested during the application, it can still be verified on arrival.
Examples:
- In Canada, officers commonly check proof of funds at first entry.
- In Australia and New Zealand, travelers may be asked to show bank statements or evidence of onward travel.
Insurance checks
Some countries require proof of health or travel insurance at entry and may refuse entry or limit the length of stay if coverage is insufficient. Even where insurance is not formally mandatory, officers can still ask about it.
Examples:
- Canada: insurance covering the full stay is frequently checked; shorter coverage can reduce permit duration.
- New Zealand: insurance is required and may be verified at the border.
What to keep accessible
To ensure a smooth entry, keep the following readily accessible:
- Passport and WHV approval/visa confirmation
- Proof of funds (recent bank statement or official document)
- Return or onward ticket (or proof of sufficient funds to buy one)
- Insurance certificate/policy summary, where applicable
💡 Having both digital copies and printed backups is recommended, as internet access may be limited at the border.
Working on a WHV: rules, limits, and common jobs
A Working Holiday Visa allows you to work legally, but it is not the same as a standard work visa. Employment rules are designed to keep the focus on travel and cultural exchange, and they vary depending on the country and program.
Can you work full-time on a Working Holiday Visa?
In many countries, full-time work is allowed on a WHV, but usually on a temporary basis. The visa is not intended for long-term, permanent employment, and working conditions depend on local regulations. Some programs allow continuous work throughout the stay, while others impose limits to ensure the primary purpose remains travel rather than career development.
Employer and time limits
Some Working Holiday programs restrict how long you can work for the same employer.
Example:
- Australia: WHV holders can generally work for up to six months with the same employer, although exceptions exist in specific sectors or regions.
- Canada: WHV holders are typically allowed to work for the same employer for longer periods, subject to the terms of their permit.
These limits are set by immigration authorities and must be respected to remain compliant with visa conditions.
Typical WHV jobs and what to expect
Working Holiday jobs are usually entry-level or seasonal and vary by destination. Common sectors include:
- Hospitality (restaurants, cafés, hotels)
- Tourism and events
- Agriculture and seasonal farm work
- Retail and customer service
In some countries, such as Japan or South Korea, WHV jobs are often concentrated in hospitality, language-related roles, or part-time positions. In destinations like Australia or New Zealand, many WHV holders alternate between short-term jobs and travel periods.
Understanding local work rules and demand helps set realistic expectations and plan your budget during your stay.
Can you extend a WHV or do a second-year visa?
Whether you can extend a Working Holiday Visa or apply for a second year depends entirely on the destination country and its immigration rules. Some programs allow extensions under strict conditions, while others do not offer any renewal options.
Extensions and second-year rules (Australia & New Zealand)
A small number of countries offer extension or second-year options, making this a high-interest topic for applicants.
Examples:
- Australia: WHV holders may be eligible for a second or even third year if they complete a minimum period of specified work in approved sectors and locations.
- New Zealand: Some nationalities can apply for a short extension (up to three additional months) if specific work conditions are met.
These extensions are subject to strict eligibility criteria and must be applied for according to official guidelines.
What “eligible work” usually means
When extensions are available, they are generally tied to eligible or specified work, which can include:
- Seasonal or regional work
- Agriculture, farming, or food production
- Roles defined by immigration authorities as supporting local labor needs
The exact definition of eligible work varies by country, and only work completed under compliant conditions is usually counted.
When extensions are not possible
In many destinations, WHVs are strictly limited to one participation per person. Countries such as Japan, Ireland, or Canada generally do not allow extensions or second-year renewals under the same program. Once the visa expires, travelers must leave the country or qualify for a different type of visa.
👉 Because extension rules differ widely and can change, it is essential to check official immigration sources early, especially if staying longer is a key part of your Working Holiday plan.
Budget & cost of living on a WHV (what to budget for)
Before applying for a Working Holiday Visa, it is important to plan all the costs involved, not just the visa fee or the first weeks abroad. A WHV budget includes upfront expenses, monthly living costs, and potential emergency expenses, which can significantly affect your stay if not anticipated.
The table below provides typical cost ranges, with examples in local currency and USD equivalents for reference. Actual costs vary depending on destination, lifestyle, city, and travel season.
Expense type | Typical cost (USD) | Examples (local currency → USD approx.) | When | Useful notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
🛂 WHV / Working Holiday visa fee | USD 0–380 | Australia: AUD 635 → ~USD 420; New Zealand: NZD 455 → ~USD 280; Canada: CAD 357 → ~USD 260; Japan: JPY 3,000–4,000 → ~USD 25 | Before departure | Visa fees are set by immigration authorities, may change, and are usually non-refundable |
🩺 WHV travel / health insurance | USD 350–1,000 (12 months) | Australia: ~USD 350–750; New Zealand: ~USD 400–900; Canada: ~USD 450–1,000 | Before departure | Cost depends on destination, duration, coverage level; mandatory in some countries |
✈️ International flights | USD 800–1,700 | Europe–Canada: ~USD 700–1,200; Europe–Australia: ~USD 1,000–1,700; Europe–Japan: ~USD 800–1,300 | Before departure | Prices vary by season, flexibility, and how early tickets are booked |
💼 Proof of funds / starting budget | USD 1,800–3,500 | Canada: CAD 2,500 → ~USD 1,850; NZ: NZD 4,200 → ~USD 2,600; Australia: AUD 5,000 → ~USD 3,300 | Before departure / on arrival | May be checked at the border to ensure you can support yourself initially |
🏠 Initial accommodation | USD 450–1,100 | Canada: ~USD 600–900; Australia: ~USD 500–850; Japan: ~USD 700–1,100 | On arrival | Temporary housing (hostel, short-term rental) is often more expensive at first |
🛒 Monthly living costs | USD 900–1,700 / month | Australia: ~USD 1,200–1,700; Canada: ~USD 1,000–1,500; Japan: ~USD 900–1,400 | During stay | Includes food, phone, daily transport, leisure; varies by city and lifestyle |
🚍 Local transportation | USD 60–220 / month | Canada: ~USD 90–130; Australia: ~USD 100–160; Japan: ~USD 80–180 | During stay | Costs can increase outside major cities or if a car is needed |
📱 Setup & admin costs | USD 60–220 | SIM card: ~USD 20–50; local admin & services: ~USD 40–170 | On arrival | One-time expenses when settling in |
🧳 Equipment & preparation | USD 120–550 | Cold climates (Canada): ~USD 250–550; Australia/NZ: ~USD 150–450 | Before departure | Depends on climate, season, and type of work planned |
🩺 Medical care & hospitalization (unexpected) | USD 100s to USD 20,000+ | Doctor visit: ~USD 80–150; Hospital stay: several thousand USD | Unexpected | In countries with mostly private healthcare, costs can escalate quickly without insurance |
🔢 Estimated total starting budget | USD 3,200–7,000 | Australia/NZ: often USD 4,500–7,000; Canada/Japan: often USD 3,200–5,800 | Before departure + first months | Includes visa, insurance, flights, proof of funds, and initial setup |
The working holiday visa cost depends largely on the destination. The Australia working holiday visa cost is often higher due to flights and living expenses, while the New Zealand working holiday visa cost can also be significant because of housing and healthcare costs. Planning ahead helps avoid budget shortfalls during your WHV.
👉 Healthcare and emergency costs significantly affect the risk profile of a WHV, which is why travel insurance is often considered a key part of budget planning, especially in destinations where public healthcare does not cover non-residents.
Travel insurance & WHV: what you need to know
Travel insurance is one of the most misunderstood aspects of a Working Holiday Visa. Requirements vary by country, but even when insurance is not formally mandatory, it plays a critical role in protecting WHV holders from high financial risk, especially in destinations with expensive healthcare systems.
Is travel insurance mandatory for a WHV?
Country | Is insurance required? | What to know on arrival |
|---|---|---|
🇦🇺 Australia | Not formally mandatory | Strongly recommended; medical costs can be very high for non-residents |
🇳🇿 New Zealand | Yes | Insurance covering the full stay is required and may be checked at entry |
🇨🇦 Canada | Yes | Proof of insurance for the entire stay is often checked; shorter coverage can reduce permit length |
🇯🇵 Japan | Not mandatory | Healthcare is paid upfront for non-residents; insurance strongly advised |
🇮🇪 Ireland | Not mandatory | Insurance is expected and may be requested during checks |
🇰🇷 South Korea | Not mandatory | Public healthcare does not automatically cover WHV holders |
In countries such as Canada and New Zealand, proof of insurance covering the entire stay is not only recommended but formally required under WHV regulations.
⚠️ Even where insurance is not officially required, immigration officers may still ask about coverage, and the absence of insurance can create serious issues if medical care is needed.
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Why travel insurance is still strongly recommended
Main risk | Example | Why insurance matters |
|---|---|---|
🩺 Medical treatment | Doctor visit in Sydney or Toronto: USD 100–150 | Covers routine care and avoids out-of-pocket expenses |
🏥 Hospitalization | 2-day hospital stay in Vancouver or Auckland: USD 5,000+ | Prevents major financial loss |
🚑 Serious accident | Surgery in Australia: USD 20,000+ | Covers emergency treatment and follow-up care |
✈️ Medical repatriation | Repatriation from Japan: USD 30,000+ | Pays for medically assisted return home |
👤 Liability claims | Injury to a third party abroad | Covers legal and compensation costs |
🌏 Side trips | Accident during travel outside host country | Ensures coverage beyond the WHV country |
💡 Healthcare costs are particularly high in North America and Oceania, which significantly increases the financial risk of traveling without insurance.
Cover typically expected for WHV travelers
Coverage | Example | What it provides |
|---|---|---|
🩺 Medical care & hospitalization | 1-2 days hospital stay in Canada: USD 15,000 | Coverage for illness and injury |
✈️ Repatriation | Emergency return from Australia: USD 35,000 | Transport back to home country |
👤 Personal liability | Property damage in Ireland: USD 5,000 | Protection against third-party claims |
📞 24/7 assistance | Emergency coordination abroad | Access to support and medical guidance |
🌍 Side-trip coverage | Travel outside main WHV country | Coverage when traveling regionally |
Coverage limits, exclusions, and deductibles vary by policy and should always be checked carefully.
Activities, work conditions, and exclusions
Many WHV holders take part in outdoor activities, physical jobs, or side trips, which are not always automatically covered. Common exclusions or conditions may apply to:
- Certain sports or adventure activities (e.g. skiing, surfing, diving)
- Manual or seasonal work (e.g. farm or construction work)
- Travel outside the main WHV country
👉 Always check the policy wording to confirm what activities are included or require optional coverage.
Price range for WHV travel insurance
The cost of working holiday visa insurance depends on several factors, including:
- Destination (healthcare costs vary widely)
- Length of stay
- Age of the traveler
- Level of coverage and optional add-ons (sports, side trips)
As a general reference, travel insurance for a WHV typically costs between USD 350 and USD 1,000 for 12 months. Destinations such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand tend to fall in the higher range due to medical expenses.
👉 Understanding working holiday visa insurance early helps avoid gaps in coverage and unexpected costs, making it a key part of WHV preparation rather than a last-minute detail.
Get my WHV insurance quoteSide trips & re-entry rules (traveling outside your WHV country)
Whether you can leave and re-enter your WHV country depends on the visa conditions issued by the host country. Most Working Holiday Visas allow multiple entries, meaning you can travel abroad and return while the visa remains valid.
However, re-entry is never automatic: immigration officers may still check that you continue to meet the visa requirements.
Also, travel insurance does not always automatically cover side trips. Coverage often depends on:
- Geographical limits (specific regions or countries included)
- Maximum duration allowed outside the main WHV country
- Activities practiced during the side trip
⚠️ Some policies only cover the primary WHV destination unless an extension or regional coverage option is included. Traveling without proper coverage can leave you uninsured outside your host country.
👉 Before planning a side trip, make sure to:
- Check that your WHV allows re-entry
- Verify your insurance coverage area and duration
- Carry your visa approval and insurance documents
- Confirm passport validity for the return
- Review activity exclusions if you plan outdoor or adventure activities
Common WHV mistakes & watch-outs
Many issues encountered during a Working Holiday experience are not due to the visa itself, but to avoidable preparation mistakes. Below are some of the most common pitfalls WHV holders face, based on recurring questions and concerns.
- Applying without fully understanding country-specific WHV conditions (age limits, visa length, quotas, or work restrictions).
- Underestimating the budget needed for the first weeks, especially housing, transport, and daily expenses before finding a job.
- Arriving without all required documents easily accessible (passport validity, visa approval, proof of funds, insurance certificate).
- Assuming it will be easy to find work immediately, without accounting for seasonality or local job demand.
- Ignoring work limitations, such as employer time limits or restricted sectors, which can lead to non-compliance.
- Believing that home-country healthcare or reciprocal agreements will cover medical costs abroad.
- Traveling outside the WHV country without checking re-entry conditions or side-trip rules.
- Choosing travel insurance that does not cover the full length of the stay, planning to extend it later without verifying if this is possible.
- Not reviewing insurance exclusions, particularly for sports, outdoor activities, or manual work.
- Overlooking tax and administrative obligations, such as registering for a tax number or declaring income locally.
- Failing to monitor passport validity, which can limit stay duration or prevent re-entry.
Anticipating these points early helps avoid administrative issues, financial stress, and interruptions during your Working Holiday stay.
FAQ
A working holiday visa is a temporary visa that allows young travelers to live abroad and work legally for a limited period. It is designed to combine travel with short-term employment under bilateral agreements between countries.
Working holiday visas are available in multiple countries worldwide, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Ireland, South Korea, and several destinations in Latin America and Asia. Availability depends on your nationality and the host country’s agreements.
The age limit typically ranges from 18 to 30, or 18 to 35 depending on the country and nationality. Age is usually assessed at the time of application, not at departure.
While requirements vary, most programs require:
Meeting the age and nationality criteria
Holding a valid passport
Providing proof of funds
Meeting health and character requirements
Having insurance, which is mandatory for Canada and New Zealand and strongly recommended elsewhere
Proof of funds requirements vary by country. As a reference:
Canada: about CAD 2,500
New Zealand: about NZD 4,200
Australia: about AUD 5,000
These amounts are set by immigration authorities and may be checked at entry.
Processing times vary by country. Some visas, such as Australia’s WHV, may be approved within days or weeks, while others, like Canada’s Working Holiday Visa, involve invitation rounds and can take several months.
In many countries, full-time work is allowed on a WHV, but usually on a temporary basis. The visa is intended for travel and cultural exchange rather than long-term employment.
It depends on the country. For example, Australia generally limits work to six months with the same employer, while other countries may allow longer periods or have no strict limit.
Some countries allow extensions or second-year visas under specific conditions. Australia offers second and third-year options based on eligible work, while most other countries do not allow extensions.
In most cases, yes. Many WHVs allow multiple entries, but re-entry depends on visa conditions, passport validity, and compliance with entry requirements.
Insurance is mandatory in some countries (such as Canada and New Zealand) and strongly recommended in all cases. Medical costs abroad can be very high, and public healthcare usually does not cover WHV holders.
WHV stands for Working Holiday Visa. You may also see related terms such as Working Holiday, Working Holiday Maker, IEC (Canada), or Youth Mobility, depending on the country.
