Are you making preparations for a working holiday visa? It’s one where you tour a new country while gaining work experience. To ensure you are excited and well-prepared, we have created a simple working holiday visa checklist.

Let’s go through each step in an easy-to-understand way.

What is a working holiday visa?

Before we get into the details, let’s talk about the basics. A working holiday visa permits you to live and work in a foreign country for a specific time, usually six months to a year. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience a new culture and fund your travels through employment. The key to making the most of this experience is good preparation.

Checklist for a working holiday visa

1. Age and nationality requirements

• The first thing to know is who can apply for a working holiday visa. Usually, you need to be between 18 and 30 or 35. 
• Some countries may have restrictions based on your nationality. Check if your home country qualifies for the program in your chosen destination.

2. Choosing your destination: Research and considerations

• Research which countries have agreements with your home country because not all countries offer working holiday programs, and each one has its details.
• Consider language, culture, and job opportunities. Some places might be a better fit for your interests and goals.

3. Working holiday visa checklist: Paperwork essentials

Now, let’s talk about the important paperwork. This is where your working holiday visa checklist comes into play. These are the must-haves:

Passport:

• Make sure your passport is valid for your whole stay.
• It should have been issued within the last 10 years.
• It needs to be valid for more than 12 months.
• Have at least 2 empty pages when applying for the visa.

Application form:

• Fill out two application forms completely.
• You can get the form online or at Visa Facilitation Services Global (VFS) and the Embassy.
• Complete it in English, French, Dutch, or German.
• Motivation letter

Photo:

• Attach two recent passport-size photos to the application form.

Administrative fee:

• Show proof of paying the administrative fee during your application submission.

Medical certificate:

• Provide a medical certificate showing you’re not contracting diseases endangering public health.
• The certificate must be 6 months old and signed by an approved doctor.

Non-criminal record certificate:

• If you’re 18 or older, show an official certificate stating you have no criminal convictions.
• Get a national police clearance from your home country (no fingerprints are needed). For example, in Australia, the National Police Clearance Certificate-Name Check is required from the Australian Federal Police, while in New Zealand, it’s a Criminal Record Check from the Ministry of Justice.
• The document must be legalized by an Apostille, which you can obtain from the relevant government institution.

4. Insurance and health requirements

Taking care of your health is essential.

• Get comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical expenses and unexpected situations.
• Check the health requirements of your destination, including vaccinations or medical exams.

5. Accommodation and transportation

Taking care of your health is essential.

• Get comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical expenses and unexpected situations.
• Check the health requirements of your destination, including vaccinations or medical exams.

6. Resume building and job research

Remember that it’s a work visa!

• Craft a resume for international job markets
• Research job opportunities and understand work regulations.

Language basics and cultural norms of your destination

• Learn basic phrases in the local language and understand cultural norms to understand social situations.

7. Financial budgeting

Financial preparation is vital because evidence of adequate funds (bank statements of the last three months in the applicant’s name) + 2 photocopies will be needed for submission.

• Create a budget
• Understand currency exchange rates
• Endeavour to set up international banking services.

8. Emergency Contacts and Local Services

Hope for the best, but be prepared for the unexpected.

• Create a contact list with essential numbers, including local emergency services, the embassy, or the consulate.

Conclusion

Each checklist plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful working holiday experience. Stay open-minded, adaptable, and optimistic. Your working holiday is not just a job opportunity but a life-changing adventure filled with growth and discovery. Best of luck on your working holiday!