New Zealand working holiday visa for British citizens
What New Zealand asks of British citizens on a working holiday, taken from the official rules. Only the facts the government page states are shown.
Travel Aid isn’t legal advice and can’t confirm that you’re eligible or that you’ll get a visa. Rules change, so always check the official government page before you apply.
United Kingdom Working Holiday Visa
Holiday and work in New Zealand for 12, 23 or 36 months.
Last checked by Travel Aid on 30 October 2026
Key facts for British citizens
- Ages
- 18 to 35
- Length of stay
- Up to 36 months
- Times you can get this visa
- Once only
- Places a year
- 15,000
- Where you live
- You must live in United Kingdom to apply
- Cost
- NZD 770
- Processing time
- INZ says 80% are decided within 2 weeks.
What else you need with a United Kingdom passport
Must normally live in the UK, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man (not outside it for more than 2 years before applying). Funds: at least NZD 350 per month of stay. Medical exam and chest X-ray needed for 23 or 36-month visas; police certificates if total stay reaches 24 months. Onward ticket or money to buy one.
Good to know
Cost shown as "from NZD 770". Choose a 12, 23 or 36-month visa; 12 or 23-month holders can later apply for a Subsequent Work Visa up to 36 months. Enter NZ within 12 months of issue. Partner or children need their own visa. Study up to 6 months. No permanent jobs.
Second and third visas
Not a new visa: holders of a 12 or 23-month visa can apply for a Subsequent Work Visa to extend their total stay to 36 months (form INZ 1223). Must still have NZD 350 per month. If not eligible, a 3-month extension may be possible after 3 months of seasonal horticulture or viticulture work.