How Much Is a Working Holiday Visa To New Zealand?

Planning a trip to New Zealand isn’t just about breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-filled adventures—it’s also about finding the right visa to make it happen.

For many young travellers, a Working Holiday Visa is the ideal way to experience New Zealand while earning money to support their journey. But how much does it actually cost, and what do you need to know before applying?

This guide breaks down the fees, requirements, and practical tips to help you budget accurately and avoid surprises. We’ll also show how TRAVUL.ORG is making the visa and travel planning process smoother than ever.

What Is a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa?

A Working Holiday Visa (WHV) allows young people—usually aged 18 to 30 (or up to 35 for certain countries)—to live, travel, and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months (23 months for UK and Canadian citizens). It’s designed for cultural exchange rather than long-term employment, giving travelers flexibility to fund their adventures while exploring.

How Much Does a Working Holiday Visa Cost?

The standard application fee for a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa is NZD $420 (about USD $250–$260 depending on exchange rates).

This amount is paid online at the time of application and usually covers:

• Immigration processing fee (charged by Immigration New Zealand)

• International visitor levy (IVL), which funds tourism infrastructure and conservation efforts

Additional costs to keep in mind:

1. Medical Certificates (if required):

   • If you plan to stay more than 12 months, you may need a chest X-ray or full medical examination. Costs vary by country but can range from USD $100 to $300.

2. Police Certificates (if required):

   • Some applicants must provide a police clearance to show they have no criminal record. Fees vary depending on your home country.

3. Travel Insurance:

   • While not mandatory for all applicants, travel insurance is highly recommended and can cost USD $300–$600 for a year.

Quick recap of the main costs:

• Visa fee: NZD $420 (~USD $250)

• Possible medical checks: USD $100–$300

• Possible police clearance: Varies by country

• Travel insurance: USD $300–$600

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility depends on your nationality. New Zealand has Working Holiday Visa agreements with over 45 countries. Key conditions include:

• Age: Generally 18–30 (up to 35 for some countries)

• Financial proof: You must show you have enough funds to support yourself initially (usually NZD $4,200)

• Return ticket or funds to buy one: Immigration New Zealand wants proof you won’t overstay

• Health and character requirements: You may need to provide medical or police certificates if requested

To check your country’s specific requirements, visit Immigration New Zealand’s official site.

How to Apply for the Visa

The application process is straightforward and entirely online:

1. Create an account on Immigration New Zealand’s website

2. Complete the online application form

3. Upload any required documents (passport, proof of funds, medical checks if needed)

4. Pay the NZD $420 visa fee

5. Wait for approval—processing times are typically 10–30 days depending on demand

Why Planning Ahead Matters

Although the Working Holiday Visa fee itself isn’t overwhelming, the total costs of relocating, traveling, and settling in New Zealand add up quickly. A clear budget helps you avoid running into financial trouble once you arrive.

This is where TRAVUL.ORG comes in.

• Integrated visa support: We guide you through the application process and keep track of requirements so you don’t miss anything.

• Travel financing options: Save gradually for your trip or access tailored loans to cover big expenses like flights, insurance, and visas.

• Personalized planning: Use our AI-powered tools to map out your trip, estimate costs, and receive recommendations that match your travel goals.

Instead of juggling multiple websites, spreadsheets, and emails, TRAVUL.ORG combines everything into one platform—from visa application tips to budgeting and funding your adventure.

FAQs

How long does the visa take to process?

Most applications are processed within 10–30 days, but high demand can cause delays.

Do I need to have a job offer to apply?

No. The visa is designed so you can find casual or temporary work after arriving.

Can I extend my Working Holiday Visa?

Generally, you can’t extend beyond the initial period (12 or 23 months depending on nationality). Some agricultural work programs allow extensions, but you must apply separately.

Can I bring dependents on this visa?

No. The visa is for individual travelers only. If your partner wants to join, they must apply separately.

Is the visa fee refundable if I change my mind?

No. Immigration New Zealand does not refund application fees if you withdraw or if your application is declined.

Final Thoughts

The New Zealand Working Holiday Visa typically costs around NZD $420 (~USD $250), but the real expense includes medical checks, travel insurance, and having enough funds to support yourself when you land. With the right planning and tools, you can make the process stress-free—and focus on enjoying your time in one of the world’s most beautiful countries.

TRAVUL.ORG makes it simple to plan, finance, and execute your trip in one place—so your working holiday starts off on the right foot.

Are you ready to take the leap and turn your New Zealand adventure into reality?