Are you eligible for a working holiday in New Zealand?

​With the construction industry booming, strong primary industries and a mass of seasonal work cropping up during the summer months, New Zealand makes the most of its fit and healthy visitors by ensuring that it's easy for them to find work while on holiday. But before you jump on a plane and scout out the employment prospects, you need to make sure that you are eligible to work.

What are the criteria for a working holiday visa?

According to New Zealand Now and the Backpacker Guide, most people who fulfil the following criteria should be eligible:

• Are you aged between 18 and 30?

• Have you got a valid passport and a credit card?

• Is this the first time you have been on a working holiday to New Zealand?

• Are you coming from a country that has an eligible visa scheme?

• Is your main reason to visit New Zealand to holiday rather than make an income?

• Are you childless or will you be childless while on holiday?

For many travellers, getting a working holiday visa will be necessary for a longer stay.

What funds will you need before you come over?

There are some costs that will increase your chances of a successful application that you need to take into account before you get the ball rolling. These include having enough money to support yourself, which is usually between $4,000 and $5,000 New Zealand dollars for the year, as well as either a return ticket or enough to purchase one (around an extra $1,000). 

It is important to check whether or not your the Working Holiday scheme with your country has any extra criteria or different requirements. For instance, some schemes will accept workers aged up to 35 and others will allow longer stays. Furthermore, in many cases where seasonal workers are in high demand, you can easily apply for a three month extension.

Almost nine out of every 10 applications felt that the application process was clear and easy.

What can you expect from the application process?

New Zealand's visa process is very good. Satisfaction surveys from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment regularly find that more than four out of every five applicants are happy with the quality of service. Almost nine out of every 10 applications felt that the process was clear and easy and that their application was completed in a timely fashion.

While the visa process is robust, actually finding a job can be tough without some support on your side. However, by working with a recruitment company that has experience in finding the right work for you during your vacation, you can see the sights without having to worry about your wallet drying up. We will find temporary jobs that work for you, so get in touch today to find out more.