Canada/New Zealand Working Holiday Scheme

The New Zealand/Canada Working Holiday Scheme was introduced in January 1994. Under the terms of the scheme, there are an unlimited number of visas which allow a stay of 12 months to young citizens of Canada who wish to travel to New Zealand for a holiday and undertake employment during their stay.

The Canada/New Zealand working holiday visa can now be applied for online. If you are between the ages of 18-35 please visit the Immigration New Zealand website for the online application form and instructions.

To be eligible for this scheme, applicants must:

• be Canadian citizens
• be aged from 18 to 35 and not be accompanied by children
• have no criminal convictions 
• be in possession of a return airline ticket
• be in good health 
• have evidence of funds to support their stay (minimum of NZ $4200)

There is one private company that offers an exchange programe for young Canadian citizens wanting to work in New Zealand called SWAP. For information on applying for a visa through SWAP please visit their website at: www.swap.ca

If you have previously held a working holiday visa you may not apply for a second one. However, you may apply for a SWAP visa.