Thinking of working and travelling in Aotearoa? The New Zealand Working Holiday Visa (often called the New Zealand Holiday Visa) is one of the friendliest ways for young people to see New Zealand, meet locals, and earn some money while they travel. This article explains everything in simple English — what the visa is, who can apply, how to fill the NZeTA Application Form, how to check NZeTA Status, and practical tips so you finish this page with no doubts.

What is the New Zealand Working Holiday Visa?

The New Zealand Working Holiday Visa is a temporary visa that lets eligible young travellers holiday in New Zealand and do short-term work to help pay for their trip. The main idea is: holiday first, work when you need money. Different countries have slightly different rules about how long you can stay and how old you must be, so check the official rules before you apply. 

Who can apply and basic eligibility

To apply for a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa, you normally must:

• Be a citizen of a country that has a working holiday agreement with New Zealand.

• Be in the age range set for your country (usually 18–30; some countries allow up to 35).

• Be healthy enough to travel; some people must get chest X-rays or medical checks.

• Have enough money when you arrive, and a return ticket or money to buy one.

Because the exact age limits, length of stay, and application windows vary by country, check the country-specific page on the official site for the most accurate details. 

How long can you stay and work?

Most people on a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa can stay for up to 12 months and work in temporary jobs. Some countries have special arrangements that allow a longer stay. The visa is not meant for permanent work — it’s for travel with the option to work short-term. If you want to stay longer, you will need a different work visa. 

Step-by-step: how to apply

1. Check eligibility — Look up whether your country is on the working holiday list and confirm your age limit. The official Immigration New Zealand pages explain this clearly.

2. Gather documents — Valid passport, passport photo (if asked), proof of funds, return ticket or money, and any required medical or police certificates.

3. Apply online — Most applications are submitted through Immigration New Zealand’s online service. There you fill the form, upload documents, and pay the fee.

4. Wait for a decision — Processing time depends on your country and the season. Use your online account to check progress.

5. Get your NZeTA if needed — If you come from a visa-waiver country, you also must request an NZeTA before you travel. See the next section for details.

NZeTA — the short, important part

The NZeTA Application Form is separate from your working holiday visa application. The NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) is required for travellers from many countries. You must request it before you board a plane or ship to New Zealand. The official NZeTA website and the NZeTA app make the process quick — many requests are processed within 72 hours, though you should give yourself a little extra time just in case. Use the same passport for both the NZeTA and your visa application. 

Also: after you apply, you can check your NZeTA Status on the official NZeTA status page using the reference number from your acknowledgement email. Keep that email safe. 

Checking the status of your working holiday application

To check the progress of your New Zealand Working Holiday Visa application, log into the Immigration New Zealand online system where you applied. The system shows updates and any requests for more documents. If they request a medical or police certificate, respond quickly — delays are a common reason for longer processing time. 

Costs and timings — brief note

Fees and processing times change. The NZeTA has a small fee and an extra tourist levy (IVL) paid at the same time. Working holiday visa fees and processing times depend on your nationality and how busy the system is. Always check the official pages for the current fees and give yourself enough time before your travel date. 

Health checks, police certificates and practical tips

• Health checks: If asked, get chest X-rays or full medicals quickly — waiting for appointments can add days to your process.

• Police checks: Some countries need a police certificate. Follow the exact format the visa office asks for.

• Keep copies: Save emails and screenshots of your visa approval and your NZeTA Application Form acknowledgement.

• Money plan: Bring enough cash for the first few days; set up a local bank account once you arrive.

• Know your rights: Temporary work is allowed, but permanent employment might need a different visa. Learn basic local workplace rules.

Final friendly reassurance

The New Zealand Working Holiday Visa is built for people who want to travel freely and work short-term while they explore. The forms and names like New Zealand Holiday Visa, NZeTA Application Form, and NZeTA Status can seem confusing at first, but if you follow the steps above and use the official websites you’ll be fine. Start early, keep good records, and ask the official helplines or a trusted advisor if something is unclear.