Visa snapshot
Government verified · 16 June 2026- Levy / extra cost
- IVL NZD 100 (the only charge; fee + immigration levy waived under the Japan fee-waiver agreement).
- Funds required
- NZD 4,200
- Work rights
- Any job, but: no permanent job; must work for an employer under an employment contract or contract for services; cannot operate a business as an owner (wording rolled out from 20 Apr 2026; France/Germany pages still show older wording). No per-employer time limit stated.
- Study rights
- Study or training up to 6 months total
- Extensions
- Available, conditions apply
- Reciprocal healthcare
- No
- Private health insurance needed
- Quota / ballot
- Not capped
- No ballot
Eligibility & conditions
Insurance: 'Who can apply' does NOT list medical insurance, but the documents list includes 'proof you have medical insurance' - page internally inconsistent (Japan is listed as insurance-EXEMPT on the official medical-insurance page).
One NZ WHV per lifetime (even if unused). Must arrive within 12 months of grant. Online application only, while scheme is open. Capped schemes (UK 15,000; Korea 3,000 in 2026) open on set dates, first-come until filled - no ballot. Onward ticket or funds required.
UK: apply for balance of 36 months (Subsequent Work Visa, INZ 1223). Canada: 12-month holders can extend to 23 months total. ALL schemes: 3 months seasonal horticulture/viticulture work earns a 3-month Working Holiday Extension Work Visa.
How to apply
Applications are submitted through the New Zealand Government's official visa portal. Processing typically takes 1-5 days.
Apply Now →Get set up for New Zealand
Banking
Open a local account soon after you arrive in New Zealand so you can get paid and skip foreign-card fees. Most banks let you start the application online before you land.
Mobile & connectivity
Set up a New Zealand number or eSIM for data and calls. The major networks have the widest coverage; budget MVNOs run on the same towers for less.
More New Zealand working holiday visas
Your first-week checklist
The practical order of things for your first days. What to sort and where to go next.