Thinking about a gap year, a long holiday, or a fresh start in New Zealand? A Working Holiday Visa is a friendly way to travel, earn a little money, and live like a local. One of the first questions people ask is: how much money do I need to show before I apply? This guide explains that in simple English, so you won’t be left guessing. It also covers the NZeTA Application Form, NZeTA Cost, proof-of-funds documents, and practical tips so your Working Holiday Visa or Working Visa application goes smoothly.

The short answer — it depends on your country

There isn’t one fixed number for every applicant. New Zealand asks Working Holiday applicants to show enough money to support themselves while in the country. For many schemes the usual guideline used by officials is about NZ$350 per month, which equals NZ$4,200 for a full 12 months. But some countries have specific rules or different minimums, so always check the page for your nationality.

Why the number can change

Different countries have different agreements with New Zealand. Some agreements may allow longer stays or set different fund requirements. Immigration looks at your nationality, length of stay, and visa conditions before deciding if your funds are “sufficient.” That is why many people use NZ$4,200 as a safe target even if their country’s official rule is lower — it reduces stress and looks clear on a bank statement.

What counts as proof of funds?

You should show documents that clearly prove you have money available. Commonly accepted proof includes:

• Recent bank statements showing the available balance.

• Credit card statements or a letter showing credit limit.

• Traveller’s cheques or official bank drafts.

Try to have at least one official bank statement dated within the last month. Immigration officers like clean, normal-looking account history — avoid strange last-minute transfers if possible.

Don’t forget travel fees: NZeTA Application Form and NZeTA Cost

Many travellers must request an NZeTA before flying to New Zealand. You complete the NZeTA Application Form on the official site or mobile app. The NZeTA Cost is usually lower through the mobile app (commonly NZ$17) and a bit higher via the website (commonly NZ$23). Also, most short-term visitors pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) when they request an NZeTA — the IVL has been changed in recent years, so include that charge in your budget. Always use the official NZeTA page to apply and to check the exact fees on the day you apply.

Practical numbers and examples

• Safe, simple guideline: NZ$350 per month / NZ$4,200 for 12 months (use this if you want a comfortable buffer).

• Some nationalities have identical NZ$4,200 guidelines (for example applicants from the UK, US, Canada often see this figure referenced). If your country page lists a different number, follow that.

Budgeting tips — human and simple

• Aim higher than the minimum. If NZ$4,200 is the guideline, try to show NZ$5,000 if you can. That gives a cushion for your first weeks.

• Plan first-week costs. Expect to pay for a hostel, food, a SIM card, and local travel—about NZ$500–1,000 for the first two weeks is a safe estimate.

• Keep tidy bank records. Avoid sudden large deposits right before you apply — steady savings look more natural.

• Include NZeTA Cost and IVL in your budget. These fees are paid when you request an NZeTA and can’t be ignored.

If you don’t have the full funds yet — what to do

• Save and document your savings (regular transfers from your salary look good).

• If family help, get a simple letter from them and a matching bank statement showing the funds. This is commonly accepted.

• Avoid high-interest loans unless you are sure you can repay them quickly.

Before you apply — a short checklist

1. Check the Working Holiday Visa page for your country and the official “sufficient funds” guidance.

2. Scan 1–2 months of bank statements and keep them in one folder.

3. Budget for the NZeTA Cost and the IVL, and complete the NZeTA Application Form if needed.

4. Buy travel insurance for the full stay (strongly recommended).

5. Apply carefully — if your scheme is capped, be ready on opening day.

Final words — take the step with confidence

A Working Holiday Visa (sometimes people call it a Working Visa) can change the way you travel: you’ll meet new people, earn while you explore, and grow. The money rule can feel confusing, but a simple plan helps: aim for NZ$4,200 (or more), keep clean bank records, and include the NZeTA Cost and IVL in your budget. If you tell me your country, I can check the exact minimum for your nationality and make a one-page printable checklist (including where to find the NZeTA Application Form) so you can apply without stress. Ready to plan?