Bonjour France! France is the largest country in Western Europe and it has long been a gateway into Europe, particularly from the UK. It has a number of borders, with the countries of Belgium, Germany, Italy and Spain plus borders with oceans, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. And the countryside within these borders range from beachside areas, to mountain ranges to flat fertile land among the villages of Dordogne. If you are keen to explore France and are from a country outside of the EU, consider applying for a France working holiday visa. With one of these you can spend up to 12 months living, working and playing in France. For details on the working holiday visa, where you can live, types of work available and some suggestions of what to see and do……read on.

 

France Working Holiday Visa

 

Depending on your age and nationality you may qualify for the working holiday programme in France. The programme allows you to visit and stay in France for up to one year. The main aim of your visit is for tourism and discovering France’s culture but you are allowed to work to supplement your finances. There are currently 15 countries which have signed a working holiday agreement with France. If you are from one of the following countries and aged between 18 and 30 years of age (35 for some countries) you could apply for the visa. Countries are Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Canada (agreement on youth mobility), Chile, Colombia, South Korea, Japan, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Mexico, Peru, Russia, Taiwan and Uruguay.

To qualify for the France working holiday visa you must meet the criteria which includes:

• Meeting the terms and conditions of the agreement regarding duration of stay and your expected financial resources.
• Be aged between 18 and 30 years of age (up to the date of your 30th birthday), except for Argentina, Australia and Canada where the maximum age is 35 years (up to the date of your 36th birthday).

To apply for the France working holiday visa Australian, Canadian and Colombian nationals may file their visa application with the visa centre of their choice. Nationals of other countries must file their visa application with the visa centre empowered in their country of nationality. You can get more information on the France working holiday visa here.

 

EU and EEA Citizens Visa Options

 

France is an EU (European Union) member and anyone who is a citizen of an EU or EEA country is entitled to stay in France for a shorter or longer period to work or study. You do not need a work permit or a residence permit. You must register yourself if you intend to stay in the country for longer than three months. Check out the official EU website for more details.

 

When to Arrive in France

 

Anytime is a good time to arrive in France on your working holiday. I say this because you will be spending 12 months in France and will experience every season. It will depend on where you want to base yourself as to the weather you will encounter. France’s weather varies significantly. The South of France tends to be quite warm, with nice winters and scorchingly hot summers. Paris and central France have colder winters with summers that can be hot and muggy. While closer to the Atlantic coastal areas there can be frequent wet conditions.

Generally speaking though, the best time to visit France is during the spring (March through to May) and summer (June through to early September). Springtime brings warmer temperatures for open-air exploration plus, there is an abundance of greenery and colour. Summer is great for exploring during its long days however, it can be very hot and you may need to tolerate large crowds at sites and at the beaches on the French Riviera and the Atlantic coast. However, these times offer many hospitality jobs in cafes and bars with the explosion of tourist. Accommodation and other holiday related expenses can be expensive during this peak time also so you may need to budget for this.

But don’t forget the winters months. France can be magical during this time and if you love skiing there is plenty of snow in the Alps. And possibly a job in one of the world-renowned ski resorts. So as I said, Anytime is a good time to arrive in France on your working holiday because you will experience all sorts of weather.

 

Things to do on arrival in France

 

Sitting in a cafe after arriving on a working holiday in France, working out your next step!

 

When you arrive in France, there are some things you need to do before you can begin to live, work and play in Sweden. These include:

• Register for a ‘numéro de sécurité sociale’ (social security number) so you can work and get paid. Some employers will help you get this.
• Open a bank account in France. You will need a French bank account to get paid and pay any rent. The main French financial institutions are La Banque postal, BNP Paribas (online brand: Hello Bank), Society Generale (online brand: Boursorama). Note: if you bank with Scotiabank (in Canada) and Westpac (in Australia and New Zealand), these banks have a partnership with BNP Paribas so you may be able to use your debit or credit card from Scotiabank or Westpac at BNP arias ATMs.
• Find somewhere to live
• Find a job

 

Accommodation in France

 

Short-term accomodation in France

 

Most who come to France on a working will start in Paris and then maybe move to the French Riviera or a ski resort in the Alps for work. There is plenty of short-term accommodation available including in hostels and hotels in these areas. I suggest you book your initial accommodation for at least 2 weeks. This is because by the time you have recovered from jet lag or any time difference, done some sightseeing, organised the things mentioned to do on your arrival and found somewhere long-term to live, the 2 weeks will almost be up. Some places to stay include:

Hostels: St Christopher’s Inn Gare du Nord is close to a main Paris train station and offers new arrivals in Paris a great base to start your working holiday. Another great options is Generator Paris. For more hostel options and to get pricing and to book check out HostelWorld.
Hotels: Some reasonably priced hotels to consider are Saphir and La Sanguine.
More options can be found on the map following.

 

Long-term Accommodation in France

 

Finding long-term accommodation in France can be tricky. And there are a number of ways to find a flat to call home. Check out classifieds in the local social press in Le bon coin (a general classifieds website) and De particulier à particulier (PAP) – both in French. 

There are also plenty of rentals listed with real estate agents and many prospective tenants rely on them to navigate the rental process. There is a fee for which is usually split between the landlord and the tenant. The fees are usually based on the size of the apartment. In some popular cities, such as Paris, the agency fees are capped at €12 per sq. m. Therefore a 10 sq. M. Apartment in Paris could see an agency fee of €120. Some good Real Estate agencies to visit include Seloger.com, Explorimmo, Orpi.com, Logicimmo and Fnaim.

Social media sites like Facebook are also a good option for finding an apartment to rent in France. Search Facebook groups to find accommodation. I suggest to find a group use keywords like ‘Paris accommodation’ or ‘apartments in Paris’ or ‘Australians in Paris’.

TIP: If you need to furniture and/or appliances check out the classifieds in Le bon coin  and Emmaüs, a non-profit with second-hand clothing and furniture.

 

Working Holiday Jobs in France

 

Not speaking fluent French can be a hindrance when looking for a job in France when on a working holiday. However, the good news is, there are still plenty of jobs available without the need to be a French speaker. In fact, with the number of visitors to France, many employers are happy to take on English speakers.

There is regular hospitality work available throughout the year, but particularly during the warmer months in hotels, bars and restaurants throughout France, but particularly in Paris and other major tourist hotspots such as the French Riviera. Hotels and hostels also require staff to ensure they run successfully and smoothly. You could always ask at your accommodation if they are seeking workers. This could be sitting on reception checking in guests to working in the kitchen or making beds and cleaning rooms for guests. Hostels are a particularly good source of employment. 

During the winter months in France (December to April) the ski resorts are often looking for staff. You could find yourself selling ski lift tickets, being a chalet host, renting ski gear, taking care of kids or maybe being a ski or snowboard instructor if you have the right qualification. France has many world-renowned resorts including Meribel, Chamonix, Val d’sere, Tignes, Courchevel and Les Portes du Soleil to name a few. Contact resorts directly or visit websites such as Snow Season Central https://www.snowseasoncentral.com/france/

If you like looking after kids, you might consider being an Au Pair in France. As an Au Pair you will look after any children, maybe undertake light housework and cooking of meals for the kids. The best thing about being an Au Pair in France is that jobs are live-in so when you secure a position your accommodation and job are taken care of in the one go. Plus, you can find positions all over France, from the main cities to the quaint country towns. For a position check out websites such as Aupair or AupairWorld.

 

Be an Au Pair in France

 

Fruit and vegetable pickers are needed throughout the year in France. In the South East and West and Loire and Rhone Valleys – apples, maize, grapes, peaches, strawberry and cherry pickers needed. May to June – Strawberries. May to July – Cherries. June to September – Peaches. September to October – Apples and Grapes. You could visit the A.N.P.E which is the French national work agency. Also check out Picking Jobs. https://www.pickingjobs.com/france/

Another work option in France for working holiday makers is to teach English. If you have a minimum of a TEFL qualification you could find work in one of the many private language schools in France. Paris alone, has around 300 language schools where you could teach primary, secondary as well as adult learners. Check out sites such as Eslbase, the British Council and EslCafe. 

Other employment in France could be found online on websites like Monster or on staffing agencies like Manpower, Adecco, Randstad and Synergie. And there is the French national employment centre,  Pôle emploi. Be aware, some of these sites are in French and some allow you to translate them into English.

 

Playing and Travelling in France

 

This is the best part of any holiday in France. And there is plenty to see and do. You will definitely need to visit France’s capital, Paris and go to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Plus visit Notre Dame, Arc de Triumph and the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa. Read my how to spend 3 days in Paris for more inspiration. There are plenty of great areas in France to spend your time. Maybe you wish to live beside the Atlantic Ocean or the Mediterranean Ocean. Or perhaps skiing or snowboarding in the Alps are calling your name. There is so much to see and do and with your year in France, you will be able to enjoy them. Check out some of the tours following:

 

Final Words on a Working Holiday in France

 

France has plenty to offer the working holiday maker or those who want to spend extended time there. If you are looking for a great place to live, work and play France should be on your list. Having a year to explore France and immerse yourself in its culture, food and lifestyle can be life changing. And one you don’t want to miss. If you have lived, worked and played in France on a working holiday or are thinking about it and have questions, we would love to hear from you in the comments following. 

 

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Are you wanting to live and work in Sweden for up to a year? Well you can if you qualify for a Sweden working holiday visa.

Sweden is known for its beautiful people, Viking history and having over 100 museums too enjoy. If you would like to experience all Sweden has to offer why not consider the Sweden Working Holiday Visa. With one of these, or EU heritage you could work and travel in Sweden for up to one year. In this post I’m uncovering more about this exciting working holiday visa to Sweden option. So get ready to live, work and play in Sweden.

 

Ready to go on a working holiday in Sweden?

Apply for your visa at your nearest Swedish Embassy

Book a Flight to Sweden at Skyscanner and accommodation at Booking.com

My favourite place to visit: The Vasa Museum – get your ticket through GetYourGuide

 

Sweden Working Holiday Visa

 

Sweden has working holiday visa agreements with 7 participating countries. Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, New Zealand and South Korea. If you are a citizen of one of these countries, are aged 18 to 30 years inclusive you could apply for the Sweden working holiday visa. With one of these visas you can:

• Live in Sweden for up to one year
• Work for one employer for 6 months
• Visit other European countries within the Schengen Zone

 

To apply for the Swedish working holiday visa, you need to: 

• Be 18-30 years of age (inclusive)
• Have a valid passport
• Saved at least SEK 15,000 so you can support yourself during your initial stay in Sweden
• Bought a return ticket or enough money to buy one
• Have a valid health insurance policy

For more details and to apply, contact your nearest Swedish Embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Sweden (Migrationsverket).

 

EU and EEA Citizens Visa Options

 

Sweden is an EU (European Union) member and anyone who is a citizen of an EU or EEA country is entitled to stay in Sweden for a shorter or longer period to work or study. You do not need a work permit or a residence permit and must register yourself if you intend to stay in the country for longer than three months. Check out the official EU website for more details.

 

Best time to go on your Swedish Working Holiday

 

If you are wondering when is the best time to go on your Swedish working holiday, well, you can be influenced by the weather, the cost of transport and accommodation and the availability of jobs.

The weather can be a huge influence on deciding when to move abroad to Sweden. Sweden has beautiful and hot summers and then freezing winters with plenty of snow and temperatures around freezing point and lower. I visited a friend in Stockholm one winter and I arrived with the temperature -15 degrees Celsius and a blizzard on the way which saw the temperature drop to -21 degrees Celsius. I have never been so cold! Going on a working holiday for 12 months means you will experience every season however, if you are not use to the cold weather you may want to first arrive during the warmer months. But really, anytime is a good time to start your working holiday.

 

Where to Start Your Swedish Working Holiday

 

Most heading to Sweden on a working holiday visa start their year living in Sweden in Stockholm. Stockholm is the capital of Sweden and offers the working holiday maker to Sweden lots of options. These include places to live, work and places to play. Stockholm will allow you to get your bearings to decide if you want to stay in the capital or move to another area in Sweden.

 

Things to do on arrival in Sweden

 

When you arrive in Sweden, there are some things you need to do before you can begin to live, work and play in Sweden. These include:

• Register with a Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) to pay taxes from your wages.
• Register with Swedish Social Insurance Agency (Försäkringskassan). This will allow you to use public health services in Sweden. If you are an EU citizen, you should also have your EHIC with you. Check out the official EU website for more details.
• Find somewhere to live
• Find a job
• Be a tourist for a few days in Stockholm to help get over any jetlag and to get your bearings.

 

Once things are sorted, start enjoying your working holiday in Sweden

 

Accommodation in Sweden

 

Most who come to Sweden on a working will start in Stockholm. There is plenty of short-term accommodation available including in hostels and hotels. For something longer a small flat can be found. I suggest you book your initial accommodation for at least 2 weeks. This is because by the time you have recovered from jet lag or any time differences, done some sightseeing, organised the things mentioned to do on your arrival and found somewhere long-term to live, the 2 weeks will almost be up. Some places to stay include:

Hostels are a great place to start your working holiday in Sweden as they are full of other travellers. City Backpackers is a great place to start as it is the most popular hostel in Stockholm for Backpackers. The facilities offered are clean, modern with heated floors in the showers – great during the cold winter months. Skanstulls Hostel is another great hostel to begin your Swedish working holiday. It is next to the Skanstulls metro station making it easy for you to jump on the metro to explore. For more hostel options in Stockholm and Sweden and to get pricing and to book check out HostelWorld.

Hotels are in abundance in Stockholm and the rest of Sweden. If looking for a budget to mid-range hotel to begin your year in Sweden check out Comfort Hotel Xpress or the NOFO Hotel BW Premier Collection. For more options, or for something with a little more luxury check out Booking.com.

To find long-term accommodation for your one year working holiday in Sweden check out websites such as Bostadd Direkt, blocket, Easyroommate.com or dn.

 

Working Holiday Jobs in Sweden

 

The good news about working in Sweden is that English is spoken widely. So you do not need to speak or write the Swedish language, however, learning some Swedish words and phrases will help. It will help you to immerse yourself in the local culture more. 

Most working holiday makers to Sweden usually find work in one of the three major cities: Stockholm, Malmo and Gotenborg where you could find a job in an office, retail store, hospitality venue or with a family as an Au Pair. Also, along the coastline, between the major cities, there is also work, particularly in the holiday resorts during the summer months. During the long winter months you may find work in a ski resort. And there is seasonal agriculture work picking fruit and vegetables available. Find out more about working in Sweden on the official EU website and check out the job board.

You could also find work in your accommodation and working in a hostel can take care of accommodation and a job at the same time. Many hostels are run by travellers who are happy to work on reception or clean rooms. In return for working you are provided with accommodation, which might be a bed in a dorm room, meals while on duty and a wage. Some travellers even work in return for free accommodation.  

Being an Au Pair in Sweden is a popular option. One of the best things about this type of work is positions are live-in, so that takes care of a job and a place to live in the one go. Duties include basic cleaning around the house as well as looking after children and their needs. For a position check out employment companies such as Aupair or AupairWorld.

Useful sites to find employment in Sweden include JobsinStockholm  which lists jobs for English speakers in Sweden and is a great place to start looking for employment, as are the following sites The Local, Sweden Jobs and Swedish Work.

You could also consider being a digital nomad in Sweden. Wifi is pretty fast however, the cost of living is quite high. But if your business is portable and you want to spend time in Sweden, well why not? There are many remote workers and digital nomads calling Sweden home.

 

Playing and Travelling in Sweden

 

I think playing and travelling is the best part of any holiday in Sweden. And there is plenty to see and do. You will definitely need to spend time in Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, with its Gamla Stan (Old City), palaces and islands to explore. There are also plenty of museums to visit including the Wasa Museum and the ABBA Museum.

Get out of Stockholm and there are plenty of towns like Helsingborg, Malmö, Ystad, Lundt, Halmstad, Gothenburg, Angelholm and Kristianstad to name a few. These towns are easily accessible by car, bus and train. Each town has something different to offer from historic buildings to cathedrals to museums to coffee shops and shopping districts. 

 

How to Travel around Sweden (Planes, trains and automobiles)

 

If you are wondering how to travel around Sweden, well, Sweden has some great transport options.

 

Air Travel in Sweden

 

Sweden is serviced by a number of airports. Arlanda Airport In Stockholm, is the main airport in Sweden and situated a mere forty kilometres north of the centre of Stockholm. Then there are smaller airports of Bromma, Skavsta and Vasteras and in Gothenburg, Landvetter and Gothenburg City. However, it is often easier to stay on the ground, particularly if there is lots of snow on the ground.

 

Train and Bus travel in Sweden

 

Train and bus are standard modes of transport for getting around Sweden. Buses are the more economical option. And train travel is the fastest way between two cities with train stations conveniently located in the centre of town. It will depend on your preference, and the routes you plan to take as to how you travel in and around Sweden.

 

Train Tavel in Sweden

 

Sweden’s rail network is one of the most efficient and most advanced in Europe. The network is run by SJ and major routes are serviced by the X2000 high-speed gains. These trains typically reach speeds of up to 125 mph and see travellers leaving Stockholm and arriving in Gothenburg in under 3 hours. There are plenty of other high speed trains to take you to other Swedish destinations. SJ offer Flexi-pass that allows travel in first and second class and between three and five days of travel during a one month period. These passes can start at just over Sek 100. Scandal also offers a flexipass allowing up to 10 days of travel, including ferry journeys in a 2 month period within Scandinavia. Sweden is also part of the Eurail network so check out their passes.

 

Bus Travel in Sweden

 

Bus routes are extensive in Sweden and reach many places. Check out fares and passes with Swebus, FlixBus and Eurolines.

 

Renting a car in Sweden

 

If looking for a flexible way to travel around Sweden consider renting a car. Roads are easy to drive on and parking is plentiful. Be careful driving on snowy and icy roads! There are a number of car rental companies in Sweden. If you would like to rent a vehicle check out DiscoverCars for rates and availability.

 

Are You Ready to Live and Work in Sweden?

 

Sweden has plenty to offer the working holiday maker or those who want to spend extended time there. If you are looking for a great place to live, work and play Sweden should be on your list. If you have lived, worked and played in Sweden on a working holiday or are thinking about it and have questions, we would love to hear from you in the comments following.

 

Estonia is one of three Baltic States. It borders Latvia and Russia with a coastline on the Baltic Sea and is often one of those countries that travellers visit after they have visited Central Europe. If you’re thinking about traveling and working abroad, Estonia is a place you should consider. With its incredible nature and innovative cities where English is widely spoken, Estonia is popular among digital nomads and creative expats. To discover the country while making an income, apply for a Working Holiday Visa. With one of these you will be able to immerse yourself in this interesting country. Read on and find out how you can live, work and play in Estonia. 

 

Why Choose Estonia As a Working Holiday Destination?

 

There are many perks to staying in Estonia as a foreigner. This country, unknown to many, is a true Nordic gem.

 

Locals are open-minded

 

There is an impression that Estonians are shy and keep to themselves. As it’s not completely a lie, the locals can be some of the most loyal friends you’ll ever have once you get to know them.

Imagine working in an environment where everybody’s creative and encouraging, and where new, perhaps crazy ideas are welcomed with open arms. As co-workers, Estonians are the perfect ones!

The fact that Estonia has only 1,3 million people, might seem a disadvantage at first. In reality, especially in the work field, it is a huge plus. Making connections and finding new business partners doesn’t require effort and hustle. Since everybody knows everybody, Estonia is just like a huge family.

 

Public transport is outstanding

 

In Estonia, especially the capital Tallinn, public transport is fast and efficient! In most cases, there’s a separate lane for buses and taxis, which allows the transport to arrive on time even during the traffic hours. Since the capital is so small and everything’s close, getting from point A to point B only takes a blink of an eye. Public transportation in Tallinn is free for all residents of the city.

 

Cost of living is low

 

Unlike many other European countries, Estonia won’t break your piggy bank when you buy real estate. There are various budget grocery stores, and even eating out won’t cost you a fortune!

 

E-Estonia

 

Estonians do everything online. If you need something to be done, you’ll surely find a website or an app for it. From voting to digital prescriptions to online banking, almost all your daily tasks can be completed through your laptop or smartphone stress-free.

 

Nature is everywhere

 

Since half of Estonia’s surface is covered with forests, it is one of the most calming places to work in. Numerous parks can be found throughout the cities and towns, which invite you to take a peaceful break in your busy day. Estonians care about the environment and make an effort to keep it clean at all times. That also results in clean and organic veggies and fruits.

 

Great Base to Explore Europe

 

Estonia belongs to the Schengen Visa area which allows you to travel in Schengen area for up to 90 days. Estonia is well placed that Scandinavia is only a ferry ride away, Russia is on your doorstep as is the rest of Europe.

As you have read, there are many positives to a working holiday in Estonia.

 

Credit Canva: Tallinn Skyline

 

Visas to live, work and play in Estonia

 

The best way to extend your time in Estonia is to apply for one of the visas that allows you to. These include the Working Holiday Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa.

 

Estonia Working Holiday Visa?

 

An Estonian Working Visa, also known as a long-stay or D-visa, is meant for travellers aged between 18 and 30 years (35 years for Canadians) who wish to work or study in Estonia for up to one year. A long-stay visa will not only allow you to stay and work in the country but will permit you to travel to the other Schengen Member States as well. With an Estonian Working Holiday Visa, you can stay in other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in 6 months.

Currently, Estonia has made Working Holiday visa agreements with Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea.  With the visa you can

• Live in Estonia for up to one year
• Work in any industry for up to 3 months for one employer
• Study for up to three months
• Participate in a training course for up to 3 months
• Travel to other EU countries
• Re-enter Estonia after travelling to other EU countries

To apply for a working holiday visa contact your nearest Estonian Embassy. It can take 2-3 weeks to process and current costs 80 EUR.

 

EU citizens visa options for Estonia

 

Citizens of the EU, the EEA (Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein), or Switzerland can enter Estonia without a visa. You are allowed to work in Estonia for up to 3 months, but if you wish to be employed for a longer period, you’ll need to register as an Estonian resident during the first 3 months of your visit. For more details visit the official European Union website.

 

Digital Nomad Visa

 

Estonia was the first country to introduce a specific digital nomad visa. To be eligible, you need to prove your status as a remote worker, it is as simple as that. The main requirements for the Digital Nomad Visa are that your work can be done online and does not depend on your location. However, other qualifications must be met, too:

• You have an active contract with a non-Estonian company/ you work for your own company that isn’t registered in Estonia/ you work as a freelancer for mostly non-Estonian clients.
• You made a minimum of 3504€ (gross salary) during the 6 months prior to your application, and you can provide proof of that.

 

To apply for the Estonia digital nomad visa fill and sign the application form.

 

Things To Do On Arrival in Estonia

 

When working in another country, the topic of taxes might seem complicated. In Estonia, taxes are taken from your salary by your employer. So if your employer is an Estonian registered company, then you will need to apply for a TIN (Tax Identification Number). A personal identity number will be 11 digits, while if you are setting up a company, it will be 8 digits. Tax in Estonia is a flat rate of 20 per cent. At the beginning of every year, the personal income tax return is filed to state the income of your previous year. This can be done online and takes only a few minutes.

For those working for companies based in other countries or digital nomads, taxes are another matter for you. Check out the Republic of Estonia Tax and Customs Board for details. It will depend on your company structure and where they are based.

Another thing to do when you arrive in Estonia is to open a bank account. Estonia is among Europe’s most expat-friendly countries when it comes to opening a bank account. Therefore, if you are 18 or older, have a valid passport and can prove you have a connection to the country, ie. visa, you can likely open a bank account. Banks include Bigbank, Coop Pack, Holm Bank, Inbank, LHV Park and Luminor Bank to name a few.

The only other things you really need to do are find somewhere to live and a job.

 

Where to live in Estonia

 

When you arrive in Estonia you will need somewhere to stay. I usually recommend to book short-term accommodation in a hostel, hotel, b&b for at least 1-2 weeks for your initial stay. This is because you may have jet lag or a time difference to get over and you will need time to find somewhere longer to live and a job. Some short-term accommodation can be found all over the country, however, most who come to Estonia on a working holiday start in the capital of Tallinn. For short-term accommodation check out the hostels Tallinn Backpackers and Old Town All Hostel. More hostel options, their pricing and booking details can be found at HostelWorld. For a budget hotel check out Citybox Tallinn Hotel and the Hotel Meltza Apartments. For other options check out the map.

 

For somewhere longer term to live, you can find many Airbnbs and rental apartments at an affordable price in most cities. For the prices of rentals, check City 24 and KV.

 

What jobs are available in Estonia

 

Digital Field

 

As a digital country, Estonia values people with knowledge of the IT field. After Israel, Estonia has the second most start-ups per capita in the world. Taxify, Skype, and Transferwise (now Wise) are probably the best-known ones. Since new start-ups continue to rise, interesting job opportunities awaken. In addition to the IT industry, many companies in the finance field and administration sector are also on the lookout for English-speaking people to join them. To find a job check out the Work in Estonia official website, CV keskus, CV.ee and the official European Union website.

 

Digital Nomad

 

Estonia is probably one of the best places for digital nomads since it was the first country in the world to introduce a Digital Nomad Visa. The country gives a warm welcome to all remote workers who wish to legally live in Estonia, yet continue working for their company abroad while getting out and about and enjoying living in Estonia. Read our digital nomad guide here.

 

Teach English

 

If you are not so digitally inclined consider teaching English. Most of the teaching jobs in Estonia are available in the three biggest cities of Tallinn, Tartu and Narva. If you love the hustle and bustle of a city, then the capital of Tallinn is ideal. At the other end of the spectrum is Narva. It is right on the Russian border and is a sleepy town. The basic monthly salary for full-time teaching English positions is likely to be in the region of €800 – €1,000. You are required to have a 120-hour TEFL qualification with some employers wanting a university degree as well. The school year runs from September to June with schools looking for teachers over the summer period to start the school year, though some schools do hire throughout the year – it depends on when they need a teacher. To find a job contact the English language schools directly or check out on-line job boards such as TeflJobsAbroad and Dave’s EslCafe.

 

Playing and Travelling in Estonia

 

Being a tourist while on your working holiday in Estonia is always the best part – well in my opinion it is. Although Estonia is only 45,339km2 and you drive from one side to the other in 2.5 hours there is plenty to see and do.

The capital Tallinn is beautiful with its charming old town. Be sure to visit the exclusive Hotel Viru for a KGB tour. During the 1970s, foreigners often stayed here while the KGB spied on them from the secret 13th floor. You can book your tour here. Or simply enjoy the shopping in the adjacent mall Viru Keskus. Perhaps you want to while your day away at the beach, then only 20 minutes by bus or so away is the beautiful sandy beach at Pirita that looks back onto a forest. And speaking of forests fifty percent of Estonia is covered in forest so there are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal on a trek.

Other towns to visit include Tartu, known as the University city. Here you can learn more about the Soviet times at the Museum Dungeons of the KGB. Oh that KGB again! Or head to Narva and go to the top of Herman Fortress for unobstructed views of Russia. There is plenty more to see in Estonia as it it such a small country you can drive one side to the other in around 2 hours so exploring is easy. Check out the tours following.

 

Final Words on a Working Holiday in Estonia

 

Since Estonia is one of the most digitally advanced places in the world, exploring the country is something worth considering. The Working Holiday Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa bring you many opportunities from studying to working to traveling Europe. If you have lived, worked or played in Estonia I would love to hear in the comments following.

 

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Europe Working Holiday Visas for Non-Eu Members
Travel Europe by Eurail / Interrail Pass 
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Thinking about living and working abroad? Why not try Germany? Germany is packed full of history, beautiful cities and towns, mountain ranges, lakes and so much more. With lots to see and do, you’ll need more than a few weeks to explore the country. Depending on where you’re from, getting your hands on a Germany working holiday visa might be easier than you think! Let’s get into it.

 

Best Time to do a Germany Working Holiday Visa

 

Germany’s climate varies year-round with four seasons so it doesn’t matter what time of year you choose to go. Work opportunities don’t change much throughout the year and if you stay for the full 12 months, you’ll get to experience all seasons.

 

Visas Available to Work in Germany

 

If you’re considering getting a Germany working holiday visa, you’ll need to see if you qualify. Here are some options to check out:

• European Union (EU) nationals – Those who are from a country that’s a part of the EU can live and work in Germany with little to no barrier to entry. Each EU country has varying rules and regulations when it comes to working rights so double check before you take off! Visit www.europa.eu for details.

• Working Holiday Visa – A Germany working holiday visa allows people from the age of 18-30 to work and live in Germany for up to 12 months. This program is available for people from Argentina, Australia, Chile, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Taiwan, Uruguay and Brazil. If you decide to do a working holiday visa in Germany, you must have health and accident insurance, a return ticket and a certain amount of money to prove you can provide for yourself (1200-4000 euros).

• Other visas for visiting Germany – People from Canada will have to apply to the Youth Mobility Program. This program is for young professionals seeking employment or an internship in Germany. It’s available for those aged between 18 and 35.

• Digital Nomad Visa – Germany was the first country in the EU to introduce a digital nomad visa. For those with an online business and who want to spend some time in Germany you may want to look into this visa option. There are two types of freelance visas, one for artists and one for other professionals. 

 

Things to do on Arrival in Germany

 

As soon as you land in Germany to start your working holiday, you’ll need to get a few things in order.

Apply for a tax number: In order to start working, you’ll need a German Tax ID. This is used to process your income tax at the end of the fiscal year. You’ll need a German address (which we’ll get to shortly) in order to apply for your tax number and it will take anywhere from 2-4 weeks to receive it.

Open a bank account: Setting up a bank account in Germany is fairly easy to do. You’ll need a bank account in order to start working so you should do that as soon as you arrive. Choosing a bank in Germany can be tricky because there are many options but some of the best for international residents are N26, DKB, Postbank and Netbank.

Find somewhere to live in Germany: Before you move to Germany, you’ll want to think of a few places you might want to live. Once you arrive, you’ll need to formally register your address (Anmeldung) and once that’s processed, your tax number will be automatically generated.

Not sure where to live? Berlin is a common option for those who can’t speak German as there seems to be many English speaking jobs available. It’s a multi-cultural area and has a lot to see and do. Other major cities to consider are Hamburg, Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, Nuremberg, Munich and Stuttgart which are also popular options! It will probably depend on which city attracts you and what work you can find. There is no harm in moving around from city to city as there is plenty of short-term accommodation such as hostels you can stay at while finding your feet.

 

Enjoy the beer and pretzels

 

Living in Germany – Types of Accommodation

 

When trying to find accommodation that will suit your needs in Germany, you’ll need to secure short term accommodation at first. Stay at a hostel or hotel for the first week or two. This will allow you to explore the city you’re in and find a location you’d like to live long-term.

You’ll most likely be looking for an apartment but keep in mind that it’s not likely to be furnished. Most apartments won’t have a bed, utensils or any of the basics that you’d typically find in rental units in other countries. You’ll likely have a flatmate when living in Germany and here are some places you can look for an apartment/flat:

WG Gesucht 
Immobilien Scout 24 
eBay 
Immonet
Immowelt 
Wonhnungsboerse 
Null-Provision

If you’re still not having luck, search “wohnung + the city or town you’re looking to live in” on Facebook. You’ll stumble upon a few groups where you can find a place to stay.

 

Finding Work in Germany

 

Why should you choose to live and work in Germany? Well for one, Germany is known for having one of the lowest unemployment rates in the EU! Its unemployment rate stands anywhere between 4-4.5% on average, making it a safe bet when going to a new country in search of work.

One thing you must keep in mind before looking to do a working holiday in Germany is the language barrier. If you don’t speak German, Berlin will be your best bet for finding a job, as English speaking jobs are becoming more common there. You should do your best to understand the basics of German before moving to Germany to speed up the job hunt or land specific jobs.

Some typical jobs people do during their Germany working holiday visa are as follows:

• Hospitality and retail – For those with experience working at a clothing store, cafe, bar or restaurant, you should have no trouble finding work in this field. It’s also a great way to make new friends in Germany! There is lots of casual work around Oktoberfest time in Munich to cater for the large number of tourists that visit to enjoy the beer and the atmosphere. Most hotels in major German cities often have staff who don’t speak German so you could even ask at the hostel you are staying as many hostels are run by travellers. In return for your work you are provided with accommodation and a wage. Or you can exchange your work for free accommodation and work elsewhere. Another opportunity could be to stock shelves in supermarkets overnight.

• Tourism – Tourism jobs are great because they generally have flexible schedules that will allow you a lot of time to travel through the country on your time off.

• Au Pair – If you enjoy working with children, you might want to consider becoming an au pair in Germany! You can apply for a visa specific to working as an au pair that’s good for up to 90 days. This visa won’t allow you to work elsewhere, so if you hope to get a second job, you’ll need a working holiday visa.

• Digital Nomads – There are numerous jobs digital nomads do on-line including blogging, web design, teaching English, content creation, IT and accounting to name a few. To continue offering online work I’m sure you’re already set up selling your services via your own website to platforms such as Fivver. 

If looking for a job check out www.findajobinGermany.com which is a website dedicated to English language jobs. If you’re part of the EU, EEA or Switzerland, the European Employment Services website has a job portal that can help you find work in any sector. They also hold job fairs in the spring and fall.

 

READ MORE: Oktoberfest – Why you shouldn’t miss it and how to survive it

 

Things to See and Do in Germany

 

Neuschwanstein Castle

 

Being a tourist while on your working holiday in Germany is always the best part and there is plenty to see and do.

Enjoy the hustle and bustle of the major German cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Munich or Frankfurt. Don’t miss the wall and Brandenberg Gate in Berlin and the Glockenspeil in Munich. 

Germany has numerous castles and palaces. The most famous of them, Neuschwanstein Castle, even served as Walt Disney’s inspiration for the castle in the film version of the fairy tale “Sleeping Beauty”. 

As well as the castles and palaces you will be enchanted by the breathtaking landscapes. In the south, the Alps await you, while in the north you can visit the North Sea or even the Baltic Sea. And in the centre of Germany there are some beautiful low mountain ranges like the Bavarian Forest or the Ore Mountains, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the big German cities.

 

Final Words on a Working Holiday in Germany

 

Not everyone will have the opportunity to do a Germany working holiday visa. If you choose to, you’ll have the option to visit castles, see the Berlin Wall, explore stunning national parks, have beach days in Sylt and so much more. Start your application today and you’ll be living and working in Germany before you know it!

 

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1 Month Central European Itinerary For First Timers

 

One way to live and work abroad is to go on a working holiday visa (WHV). As long as you qualify, that is. This is how I was able to live and work in the UK as I qualified for the working holiday visa. If you want to know where you can live and work abroad on a working holiday visa, you are in luck. There are some 50+ countries with working holiday visas. Read on and discover where you could be living, working and playing in the world on a working holiday visa.

The biggest thing with a working holiday visa, well, any visa, is whether you qualify for the visa. Countries around the globe offer working holiday visas exclusively to young adults, typically 18-30 or 18-35 years of age. With a working holiday visa in your passport you will be able to spend up to one year, sometimes two years, in the country where you can undertake work to help fund your travels. Sound good?

Note: This post provides an overview of countries with a working holiday visa. I have done my best to ensure the information provided is the latest available. Please visit the individual country embassies or high commissions to get the latest information. Then, follow all the instructions to apply for a working holiday visa.

 

What is a Working Holiday Visa?

 

If you aren’t quite sure what a working holiday visa is, let me explain. In general, a working holiday visa is a cultural exchange between countries. It allows travellers of a certain age, mostly 18-30 years or 18-35 years to have an extended stay in another country. This is usually up to 1 or 2 years, sometimes 3 years. And, you can undertake work to support yourself while in the country and to fund further travels.

Popular countries offering working holiday visas are Australia, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand and Singapore among others.

 

Common Requirements and Eligibility of Working Holiday Visas

 

Requirements and eligibility for working holiday visas varies from country to country. But, there are some general requirements you need to meet. Here’s a quick working holiday visa overview of the fundamentals of working holiday visas.

Nationality: Your nationality influences which countries you can apply to for a working holiday visa. You must be a citizen of a country that has a working holiday holiday visa agreement with other countries.

Age: Working holiday visas are aimed at young adults. You need to be between 18 and 30 years old, although some countries allow applicants up to 35 years of age. If you are over this age there are still options for you to live and work abroad. Read my guide on working holidays for people over the age of 30-35 years.

Proof of Funds: To apply for a working holiday visa you need to prove you have sufficient funds in your bank account. This is to cover your initial expenses of your stay. The amount varies from country to country.

Health Insurance: Most countries require you to have valid health insurance for the duration of your stay. Some countries may even request you have a medical exam. A chest x-ray might be part of your application.

 

Two Types of Working Holiday Visas

 

There are two types of working holiday visa. The Working Holiday visa and the Work and Holiday visa. Here are the main differences.

 

Differences between the Working Holiday and the Work and Holiday Visa

 

Both the Working Holiday and the Work and Holiday Visa are basically a residence permit. If you qualify for one you can undertake employment in the country issuing the visa to supplement your travel funds. Sometimes there are restrictions on the type of work you can do in some of the countries. This is why you often hear of typical ‘backpacker jobs’ that working holiday makers do.

The main difference between the two visas is the Work and Holiday Visa is aimed at students or recently qualified tertiary students. Where the Working Holiday Visa is aimed at anyone aged between 18-30 (sometimes 35) years of age. Both visas allow you to undertake work while you are living in a particular destination. 

 

Working Holiday Visa at a glance

 

In general:

• Your main intention is to holiday and take incidental work.
• Must be 18 to 30 years (sometimes 18 to 35 years) inclusive at the time of your application.
• Be single or married without children.
• Prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your initial stay.
• Have a return and or onward ticket or sufficient funds so you can leave the country at the end of your stay.
• So make the most of your time. Most countries allow you to stay for 12 months. Some allow a stay of up to 24 months.
• Each country issues a working holiday visa once in your life time. Though countries like Australia offer a 2nd and 3rd year working holiday visa if you spend 3 months doing certain work like agricultural work.

 

Work and Holiday Visa at a glance

 

In general:

• Your main intention is to holiday and take incident work.
• Be 18 to 30 years (sometimes 18 to 35 years) inclusive at the time of your application.
• Hold a tertiary qualification that you have recently completed or be studying full-time.
• Speak English
• Obtain a letter of support from your Government.
• Have a return flight booked or the money to purchase one.

 

Application and Documentation to Apply for a Working Holiday Visa

 

To apply for a working holiday visa, you will need to follow the application process of the country with the working holiday visa you are applying for which is roughly:

• check if your desired destination country offers this type of visa to your nationality. You can do this only by going to the country’s official site that provides visas.
• find out what documents and information are required from you to apply for the working holiday visa. At this time check the expiry date of your passport. Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay and ideally, an additional six months beyond this is ideal. If you don’t have long validity on your passport, consider applying for a new one.
• gather your documents and information.
• fill in the application form and provide copies of documents. Follow their instructions closely to avoid delays or having your application rejected.
• pay the application fee. This fee will vary from country to country.
• wait while your application is processed, and hopefully you will successfully receive a working holiday visa.

 

How Long Does it Take to Have Your Working Holiday Visa Approved?

 

The time taken to approve a working holiday visa will depend on the processing of visas of the individual countries. Usually when you apply you should receive advice of how long it might take. Anywhere from a week or two to a couple of months. But it can depend on how busy the visa processing area is.

 

Why Go on a Working Holiday Visa

 

A working holiday visa provides you with some big benefits. If you successfully apply for and receive a working holiday visa you will be allowed to:

• Live and work in the working holiday destination for up to 1, 2 or 3 years.
• You can apply for and undertake work to support yourself while in the country. And to fund further travels.
• Immerse yourself in the culture and meet new people, enjoy different foods and travel around the country.
• Have the opportunity to travel around neighbouring countries.
• Potentially enhance your CV for the future.

 

I’m sure you agree, all of these are great reasons to live and work abroad on a working holiday visa. I loved my time living in the UK. I based myself in London where I got ‘temp’ work. I did typical backpacker jobs. I did admin in offices, got a live-in bar job for a while and also had a live-in nanny job. Then I had weekends away discovering the UK and also travelled to and from Europe.

 

Don’t Qualify for Working Holiday Visas

 

Over 30 or 35? Don’t worry if you don’t qualify for a working holiday and or work and holiday visa. There are still many work opportunities available to you to live and work abroad. Read my Over 30? Your Work and Travel Options post here. Also check out my comprehensive list of countries with a digital nomad visa. They don’t have an age limit on them, but they do require you to be making money online. Get the lowdown on digital nomad visas here.

 

Countries With Working Holiday Visas

 

The list of countries which offer working holiday visas and work and holiday visas is huge. This is great because you will have a lot of choice when it comes to where you can go. Some citizens of some countries have more choice than others. Australians, New Zealanders, Canadians and those from the UK have more choice than some others. This is because their governments have negotiated working holiday visas with a number of countries.

 

Working Holiday Visas By Region

 

To help you decide what country to apply to, you may want to know what region they are in.

 

Working Holiday Visa Destinations in the Asia-Pacific Region

Several countries offer working holiday visas in the Asia-Pacific region. Australia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand.

 

Working Holiday Visa Destinations in the Europe Region

Many countries in the European region have working holiday visas available. Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Republic of Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom,

 

Working Holiday Visa Destinations in North America & South America Regions

In North America, Canada is the primary destination for a working holiday visa. To the United States of America the working holiday visa is a new concept and it does not have many reciprocal agreements in place. It does have a Work and Holiday Visa available with Australia and you can get a J1 or J2 visa to work in the US for a short time.

You will have more luck getting a working holiday visa in South American countries. Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Peru and Uruguay.

 

Other Working Holiday Visa Destinations

Many countries are joining the working holiday visa schemes. These include Bangladesh.

 

Working Holiday Visas by Nationality

 

Some nationalities have more working holiday visas available to them. And we seem to be nationalities who love to live and work abroad and have embraced the opportunity. I know I did. I went to the UK on a working holiday as well as New Zealand. Popular nationalities include:

Australia: Working Holiday Visas for Australians: Australia has over 40 reciprocal working holiday visas in place.

New Zealand: Working Holiday Visas for New Zealanders: Like Australia, New Zealand has over 40 reciprocal working holiday visas in place.

United Kingdom: Working Holiday Visas for citizens of the United Kingdom: Like Australia and New Zealand, the United Kingdom has over 40 reciprocal working holiday visas in place.

Canada: Working Holiday Visas for Canadians: Like Australia, New Zealand and the UK, Canadians love to travel and Canada has over 40 reciprocal working holiday visas in place.

USA: Working Holiday Visas for Americans: Working holiday visas are relatively new to America, I’m not sure why, America only has a few reciprocal working holiday agreements in place including one with Australia.

 

Countries With a Working Holiday Visa or Work and Holiday Visa

 

Following is an alphabetical list of countries with a working holiday and or work and holiday visa arrangement.

NOTE: These working holiday visa requirements are subject to change. Also, countries are negotiating working holiday visas and more arrangements are becoming available all the time. 

TIP: Before applying for a working holiday visa do your own research and ensure you understand what is involved.

The following working holiday visa destinations are listed in alphabetical order.

 

Argentina

Visa: Argentina Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Denmark, France, Ireland and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy of Argentina for more details and to apply

 

Australia

Visa: Australia Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
Available to citizens of: United Kingdom, Canada, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Republic of Ireland, Republic of Cyprus, Republic of Korea, Sweden, Taiwan
Visa: Australia Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
Available to citizens of: Argentina, Bangladesh, Chile, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Poland, Turkey, Thailand, Uruguay, USA
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Australian High Commission or Consulate for more details and to apply
Australia also has the Trans-Tasman Agreement with New Zealand allowing New Zealanders to come to Australia to live and work.

 

READ MORE: Get the lowdown on living, working and playing in Australia in my Australia Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Principality of Andorra

Visa: Principality of Andorra Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Principality of Andorra.

 

Austria

Visa: Austria Working Holiday Visa (which only permits study)
Available to citizens of: Hong Kong, Israel, New Zealand, South Korea and Taiwan
Length of stay: 6 months and 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Austria.
Austria currently has a youth workers exchange program available to Canadian students and graduates aged between 18 And 30 allowing them to stay in Austria for up to 6 months to gain experience in Tourism, Agriculture And Forestry. You must be a Canadian who is a full-time post-secondary students and/or graduate, 18-30 years of age. Part-time and high school students not eligible.

 

Bangladesh

Visa: Bangladesh Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (inclusive)
Other: Meet health and character requirements. Have no dependent children accompanying you. Have a return ticket or sufficient funds for a return or onward fare
Contact: Your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Bangladesh

 

Belgium

Visa: Belgium Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Belgium

 

Brazil

Visa: Brazil Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: France, Germany, South Korea and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Brazil for more details and to apply

 

READ MORE: Brazil Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Canada

Visa: Canada Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Ukraine, United Kingdom
Length of stay: 12 months-24 months, depending on country arrangement
Aged: 18-30 years, some up to 35 years depending on country arrangement inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Brazil for more details and to apply

 

READ MORE: Canada Working Holiday

 

Chile

Visa: Chile Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, South Korea, New Zealand and Sweden
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive (or 35 years in the case of Canada and Hungary)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Chile for more details and to apply
Types of work for working holiday makers: Teaching English, working in the ski resorts, volunteering
Also citizens of Colombia, Mexico and Peru can apply to the Pacific Alliance (Chile, Columbia, Mexico, Peru) for a work and holiday visa in Chile

 

China

Visa: China Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate for more details and to apply

 

Columbia

Visa: Columbia Work and Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: France
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Columbia for more details and to apply
Citizens of Chile, Mexico and Peru can apply to the Pacific Alliance  (Chile, Columbia, Mexico, Peru) for a work and holiday visa in Columbia

 

Costa Rica

Visa: Costa Rica Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Canada
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-35 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Costa Rica for more details and to apply

 

Croatia

Visa: Croatia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Canada and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Republic of Croatia.

 

Cyprus

Visa: Cyprus Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 25 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Cyprus

 

Czech Republic

Visa: Czech Republic Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Canada, Chile, New Zealand, South Korea and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Czechoslovakia

 

Denmark

Visa: Denmark Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of:  Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Danish Embassy or Consulate

 

Europe (European Union, EU)

Europe does not have a working holiday visa but individual countries do. They are: Andorra, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Malta, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden.

Europe is made up of a number of countries. When they belong to the EU they can live and work in each other’s country. EU countries include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.

Check out the offical European Union website at www.europa.eu

 

Estonia

Visa: Estonia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (18 to 35 years for Canadians)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Estonia

 

READ MORE: Estonia Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Finland

Visa: Finland Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of:  Australia, Japan and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Finnish Embassy or Consulate

 

France

Visa: France Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Columbia, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia (4 months) and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (35 years in some cases)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of France

 

READ MORE: France Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Germany

Visa: Germany Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (35 years for Canada)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Germany

 

READ MORE: Germany Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Greece

Visa: Greece Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and Canada
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Greece

 

Hong Kong

Visa: Hong Kong Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Japan, the Netherlands, South Korea, New Zealand, Sweden and the United Kingdom
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years at the time of application
Other: be of good health and good character
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Hong Kong

 

Hungary

Visa: Hungary Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Chile, New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Hungary

 

Iceland

Visa: Iceland Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of:  Australia
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Icelandic Embassy or Consulate

 

Indonesia

Visa: Indonesia Work and Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia – capped at 1000
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years at time of the application
Contact: Nearest Indonesian Consulate

 

READ MORE: Bali Digital Nomad Guide

 

Ireland (Republic of)

Visa: Republic of Ireland Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, United States of America and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Republic of Ireland

 

READ MORE: Ireland Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Israel

Visa: Israel Working Holiday Visa – has a Kibbutz Volunteer program
Available to citizens of: Australia, Austria, Germany, New Zealand, South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Israel

 

READ MORE: Many travellers to Israel have long volunteered on a Kibbutz or Moshav. Here’s how you can be a Kibbutz Volunteer

 

Italy

Visa: Italy Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months (24 months for Canadian citizens)
Age: 18 to 30 years (35 years for Canadian citizens
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Italy

 

READ MORE: Italy Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Japan

Visa: Japan Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Denmark, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, South Korea, New Zealand, Norway,Taiwan, Hong Kong (SAR), Ireland, Slovakia, Poland, Portugal and the United Kingdom
Length of stay: 12 months, pls note a one year visa may be granted to citizens of Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, South Korea, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Finland and United Kingdom. A 6-month visa may be granted to citizens of Australia which can be extended twice and once for citizens of New Zealand and Canada.
Age: 18 to 30 years at the time of application
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Japan

 

READ MORE: Japan Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Latvia

Visa: Latvia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Latvia

 

Lithuania

Visa: Lithuania Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Canada, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Lithuania

 

Malaysia

Visa: Malaysia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Malaysia

 

Malta

Visa: Malta Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Malta

 

Mexico

Visa: Mexico Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Canada, France, Germany, South Korea and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-29 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Mexico for more details and to apply
Citizens of Chile, Colombia, Peru are eligible for the Pacific Alliance (Chile, Columbia, Mexico, Peru) working holiday visa in Mexico

 

The Netherlands

Visa: Netherlands Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Argentina, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years, up to 35 years of age depending on country arrangements
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Netherlands

 

READ MORE: Netherlands Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

New Zealand

Visa: New Zealand Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Croatia, Czech, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, USA, Uruguay, Vietnam.
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years, up to 35 years of age depending on country arrangements
Contact: your nearest New Zealand Consulate

 

READ MORE: New Zealand Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Norway

Visa: Norway Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of:  Australia, Canada, Japan and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (35 years depending on country agreement)
Contact: your nearest Norwegian Embassy or Consulate

 

Peru

Visa: Peru Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Peru for more details and to apply
Citizens of Chile, Colombia, Mexico are eligible for the Pacific Alliance (Chile, Columbia, Mexico, Peru) working holiday visa in Peru

 

Philippines

Visa: Philippines Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Philippines

 

Poland

Visa: Poland Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (18 to 35 years for Canadians)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Poland

 

Portugal

Visa: Portugal Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Japan and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Portugal

 

Romania

Visa: Romania Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Romania

 

Russia

Visa: Russia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: France
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Russia

 

South Korea

Visa: South Korea Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Czech Republic, Japan, Hungary, Hong Kong, Israel, New Zealand, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Taiwan, UK and The United States
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 25 or 30 years inclusive (depending on country of origin)
Other: If granted, you may not be employed as receptionist, dancer, singer, musician, acrobat etc. Also not at places of entertainment which might endanger good morals and manners. Or engage in types of business which go against the tenor of the agreement. This could be not to provide medical treatment and other professions which require certain qualifications in accordance with South Korean domestic law.
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of South Korea

 

Singapore

Visa: Singapore Work and Holiday Visa
Available to undergraduates and graduates from universities and equivalent institutions of: Australia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 17 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Singapore

 

Slovakia

Visa: Slovakia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and Taiwan
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Slovakia

 

Slovenia

Visa: Slovenia Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Slovenia

 

Spain

Visa: Spain Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Spain

 

Sweden

Visa: Sweden Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of:  Australia, Canada, Chile New Zealand and South Korea
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Swedish Embassy or Consulate

 

READ MORE: Sweden Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

Switzerland

Visa: Switzerland Youth Mobility Program
Available to citizens of: Canada with a secondary education and have completed a 2-year training, or study at a post-secondary institution, or have completed your post-secondary studies
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 35 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Switzerland

 

Taiwan

Visa: Taiwan Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Japan, Canada, Germany, Hungary, New Zealand, Poland, Slovakia, South Korea, United Kingdom and Ireland
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Taiwan

 

Thailand

Visa: Thailand Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Other: have tertiary qualifications (full time courses with at least 3 years of study)
Contact: Australian citizens should contact the Thai Consulate in Sydney. New Zealand citizens should contact the Thai Embassy in Wellington.

 

Turkey

Visa: Turkey Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Turkey

 

United Kingdom

Visa: United Kingdom Working Holiday Visa known as Tier 5 Mobility Scheme Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, Taiwan or Republic of Korea
Length of stay: 24 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest British High Commission or Consulate

The United Kingdom also has an Ancestry Visa available. If you have British parents or grand parents you could apply for an Ancestry Visa.

 

READ MORE: United Kingdom Working Holiday Visa Guide

 

The United Kingdom is the most popular working holiday destination for young Australians and New Zealanders. Get ready for your working holiday in the United Kingdom with a copy of my ebook Live Work and Play in London and the UK. It provides the information you need for a smooth transition into your UK working holiday.

 

Uruguay

Visa: Uruguay Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia, France and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Aged: 18-30 years inclusive
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Uruguay for more details and to apply

 

Vietnam

Visa: Vietnam Working Holiday Visa
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: nearest Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam

 

READ MORE: Countries With A Digital Nomad Visa

 

Backpacker Jobs and Traveller Jobs

 

There are a number of typical backpacker and traveller jobs that people on a working holiday visa usually do. These include, but are not limited to office administration work, accounting and banking, hostel jobs, fruit and vegetable picking, teaching English and working in a bar, cafe or restaurant. Read more about typical backpacker jobs and how to find one here.

 

Working Holiday Visa FAQs

 

Where do you apply for a working holiday visa?

You apply for a working holiday visa at the Embassy, High Commission or Consulate of the country you are applying to.

How do you apply for a working holiday visa?

Easy, go to the appropriate website of the country you are wanting to apply to. Follow all the instructions, provide all required documentation, pay the fee and wait for approval.

How long does it take to get a working holiday visa?

The length of time to get approval for a working holiday visa varies. Each country has their own processes to follow and this can take time. You should be advised this when applying.

How much does a working holiday visa cost?

The cost of a working holiday visa will vary per country. When researching about each visa, find out the cost involved.

 

Are You Ready for a Working Holiday?

 

Working Holiday Visas provide a fantastic opportunity for you to experience living and working in another country. As you have read, there are many countries with a working holiday visa and / or work and holiday visa arrangement available. Now is the time to get out there and enjoy a working holiday destination. They are a great option for you to work and travel around the world.

So get your paperwork sorted. Pack your bags and get going on a working holiday. Don’t forget to protect your trip with travel insurance. Check out WorldNomads and Safety Wing to find a policy that suits you.

If you discover any changes to the working holiday visas listed, or know of any new country working holiday visas not listed, please let me know. This will let me keep this list of countries with a working holiday visa up-to-date. If you have been on a working holiday I would love to hear in the comments following.

 

READ MORE:
What to Pack for a Working Holiday
The World is Your Oyster – Travel Job Tales
How to Work and Travel Abroad

 

Where to live work and play on an Australia Working Holiday?

 

Considering a working holiday in Australia? People all across the globe dream of having an opportunity to work and travel Australia. After all, it is such a beautiful country and a great place to have an extended holiday. From the warm climate, laidback vibe, friendly locals, great food, spectacular surf and inspiring outback, it’s no wonder many people come to live work and play in Australia! There are a number of visas allowing extended stays in Australia, in particular the Australia Working Holiday Visa. So read on, find out about the visas, then start planning your Australian working holiday. 

I have written this post to help you get started as well as help you hit the Australian ground running. There are 6 steps to a working holiday in Australia. They are:

1. Getting Your Working Holiday Visa
2. Preparing For Your Australian Working Holiday
3. Setting Up Your New Life in Australia
4. Finding Accommodation in Australia
5. Finding a Job in Australia
6. Deciding How to Travel Australia

Step 1: Get Your Australia Working Holiday Visa

What is the Australia Working Holiday Maker (WHM) Visa Program?

 

The Working Holiday Visa Australian Program is open to a wide range of countries. It allows you (if you successfully get one) to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months taking incidental work to make money to further your travels. There is an option to extend the visa for a second year working holiday visa and even a third year working holiday visa. But it involves completing a certain amount of ‘specified work’, which I’ll get into shortly.

Two Types of Australian Working Holiday Maker (WHM) Visa

There are two types of Australia working holiday maker visas (WHM) you can apply for. The one you get depends on the country you’re coming from and the passport you hold. In general, for both visas, you must:

• be between the age of 18 and 31 years old (in some cases up to 35 years) to qualify for the visa.
• come from an eligible country.
• cannot bring a dependent child with you.
• reside outside of Australia when you apply.

The two visas available to come to Australia on a working holiday are:

 

Australia Working Holiday Maker Visa Subclass 417

The first working holiday visa option is Subclass 417. This visa is available for citizens of:

• Belgium
• Canada
• Republic of Cyprus
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (including British National Overseas passport holders)
• Republic of Ireland
• Italy
• Japan
• Republic of Korea
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Sweden
• Taiwan (other than an official or diplomatic passport)
• The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

You can find a full list of countries allowed to apply for this visa here.

On this visa, certain nationalities from

• Canada
• Denmark
• France
• Republic of Ireland
• Italy

are able to apply until they are 35 years old. If you apply for this visa, you must have at least $5,000 AUD in your bank account to show you will be able to support yourself while living in Australia.

Australia Working Holiday Maker Visa Subclass 462

The second option for a working holiday visa is Subclass 462. This type of visa is available for citizens of:

• Argentina
• Austria
• Brazil
• Chile
• China, People’s Republic of
• Czech Republic
• Ecuador
• Greece
• Hungary
• Indonesia
• Israel
• Luxembourg
• Malaysia
• Mongolia
• Peru
• Poland
• Portugal
• San Marino
• Singapore
• Slovak Republic
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Switzerland
• Thailand
• Turkey
• Uruguay
• United States of America
• Vietnam

You can find a full list of countries allowed to apply for this visa here. As with the other visa option, you must have at least $5,000 AUD before entering the country.

For both visas, you will also need to prove that you are in good health before you intend moving abroad to Australia. Depending on your country of citizenship, you may have to complete a health exam as part of the application process.

 

Work Limitations on Working Holiday Maker Visa Holders

 

Working Holiday visa holders have been subject to a 6-month work limitation, meaning they have only been allowed to work for any one employer for a maximum of six months. In 2022 this rule was temporarily relieved to help fill gaps left in the Australian workforce by the Covid-19 pandemic. Check out the latest details when applying for your working holiday maker visa.

 

Options to Extend a Working Holiday Maker Visa

 

On both the 417 and the 462 visa, there is the option to extend the visa into a second and third year. This means you could stay in Australia for up to three years under the WHM scheme. To do this, you must complete specific work in a regional area. Often referred to as the ’88 days’ rule because you are required to do 88 days of work to receive the second-year Working Holiday visa. And to receive the third-year Working Holiday visa, you are required to complete six months of specific work.

With the covid pandemic, things were a little different and specific work required were extended to include other industries, mostly to help with the lack of staff thanks to the pandemic. Get more details on Specified work here.  

 

More Potential Changes to the Working Holiday Maker Visa

 

In 2022, the Australian government signed the Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (Australia-UK FTA). While the agreement is not yet effective, once it does come into action, it will allow UK citizens to:

• apply for a Working Holiday visa until the age of 35 years (inclusively)
• receive up to three Working Holiday visas without having to fulfil the specified work requirement.

Learn More About the Working Holiday Maker Program

 

If you have more queries about a working holiday in Australia, you can learn more about the WHM visa scheme via the Department of Home Affairs.

 

How to Apply for an Australian Working Holiday Visa

 

The application process for an Australian working holiday maker visa is fairly simple and usually doesn’t take much time. With that being said, it’s best to apply well before you hope to enter the country in case you encounter any issues throughout the application process.

You’ll need to enter your personal information, identification and apply online by creating an ImmiAccount. To finalise your application, you’ll need to pay a fee of approximately $500 AUD before you’re considered for your work and holiday Australian visa.

It typically only takes a few days to hear back about your application. In many instances, people receive notice of a confirmed visa within the same day of applying. However, during the world-wide pandemic Australia closed its border and was not allowing working holiday makers in. Now that Australia has opened its border again, and is allowing backpackers and working holiday makers into the country, the time to hear if you have successfully got an Australian working holiday visa may vary.

If you are over the age limit for an Australian working holiday visa don’t fear, there are options for you to live, work and play in Australia. These are explained in my Over 30 – Your Work and Travel Options post here.

 

READ MORE: What to Pack For A Working Holiday

 

Step 2: Preparing for Your Australian Working Holiday Visa

 

So you got your visa and have a definite ‘leave date’ now you need to prepare yourself for Australia.

• Most people arrive by plane so get yourself an airfare first. Check out Skyscanner for deals.
• Next book your accommodation. I suggest you book somewhere for 2 weeks. I say this because after you arrive, recover from jet lag, do some sightseeing and get your bearings, 1 week is usually up. The second week gives you a better chance to sort out things you need to do on arrival like get a TFN, a job, a place to live – see further on for more details on these. To check availability and pricing my go to accommodation sites are HostelWorld for a bed in a hostel and Booking.com for everything else – hotel room, resort, etc).
• Choose Where to Begin Your Working Holiday in Australia.
• Finalise things at home. Cancel services like gas, electricity, etc.
• Pack. Packing for a working holiday is different to packing for a two week beach holiday so read this first: What to Pack For A Working Holiday
• Don’t forget travel insurance.

 

Choosing Where to Live on Your Working Holiday in Australia

 

When your visa application has been accepted, you can finally decide where you’d like to begin your Australian working holiday. Doing a working holiday in Australia is different from doing a working holiday in other countries. For example Canada, where most travellers find a place to stay for the entire year and don’t bother moving around to different cities.

Since Australia has many beautiful and vibrant cities throughout the entire country, travellers often choose to spend a few months in one city and then move on to another. The most popular cities to live and work in are Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Followed by the Gold Coast, Perth, Adelaide and Darwin, but it really is personal choice.

Sydney and Melbourne are hubs for working holiday makers as they offer many work opportunities and plenty of accommodation. Fancy living by Bondi Beach in Sydney or St Kilda Beach in Melbourne and commuting by bus into the city for work? Many do! Once you’ve decided on your initial landing point you can book your airfare. Check out Skyscanner to find a suitable airfare.

 

Step 3: Setting Up Your New Life in Australia – Things to do when you Arrive in Australia

Upon entering Australia, your visa will be stamped and authorised by the Australian government. After that, you’ll need to organise a few things before you start to live work and play in Australia.

1. Find a place to live
2. Open an Australian bank account
3. Get an Australian SIM card/phone plan
4. Find a job
5. Register for an Australian Tax File Number
6. Get a Superannuation account

Step 4: Finding Accommodation in Australia – Your Accommodation Options in Australia

 

Start your Australia Working Holiday with views over Sydney Harbour from YHA in the Rocks. 

 

Looking for accommodation in Australia can be stressful depending on the type of accommodation you’re seeking. It’s best to book a hostel, hotel or Airbnb for the first week you arrive until you’re able to secure a place you’re happy with! I suggest make a booking for 2 weeks because by the time you have arrived, got over jet lag, done some sightseeing and begun doing the things you need to do for your new life in Australia, your first week will be up. Having a second week will let you concentrate on finding a more permanent place to live and a job without having any upheaval to find another short term place to stay because their is no availability where you are.

 

Start your Working Holiday in Australia in Sydney

 

As mentioned, Sydney and Melbourne are the hubs for working holiday makers and backpackers to Australia. Sydney has long been the most popular city to start your Australian working holiday. Some great hostels to start your time in Australia at include the Sydney Harbour YHA at The Rocks. This hostel has great views over Sydney Harbour. You can check pricing and book here. There are plenty of hostels all around Australia, to check pricing and to book visit HostelWorld. For something a bit more up-market such as your own hotel room check out Booking.com.

If you’re planning on moving around from one city to another, you may want not want to commit to a long-term rental. Therefore, you could live in a hostel as there are long-term hostel stays available. You could even work a few hours at reception, in the bar or do some cleaning to get a discounted or a free stay. There are also many short term options with Airbnb. You could also consider a serviced apartment or house sitting. If house and pet sitting is of interest, read my post to discover how you could get free accommodation in Australia by Housesitting.

Long term accommodation can be challenging to find but it differs from city to city. There are three main places you can search for long term stays in Australia.

1. Gumtree is similar to Craig’s List or Kijiji where you can buy and sell just about anything but there are also many rentals listed.
2. Facebook Groups. Look for specific accommodation groups for each city.
3. Accommodation websites listing rentals such as Flatmates.com.au and Realestate.com.au.

 

Step 5: Finding a Job in Australia

 

Popular Working Holiday Maker and Backpacker Jobs You Can Do in Australia

 

Doing Farm Work in Australia Will Allow You To Apply For A Second and Third Working Holiday Visa

 

You can find work nearly anywhere in Australia while visiting on a working holiday visa. But it’s certainly easier in big cities unless you’re working in agriculture.

 

READ MORE: 6 Ways To Find Work in Australia

 

What’s great about working in Australia is that the pay can be amazing! You should be able to easily secure a job paying a minimum of $18 AUD an hour quite easily. The one stipulation is that you’re only allowed to work for a company for up to 6 months of the year.

There are ways around the 6-month rule, such as a situation where the company chooses to sponsor you. Although those circumstances are few and far between! Let’s take a look at some of the most common jobs for working holiday makers in Australia.

 

Hospitality Jobs in Australia

 

Hospitality jobs are a popular choice for working holiday makers and there are positions to be filled all over Australia. From the big city coffee shops and restaurants to the small outback roadhouses. And don’t worry if you don’t have experience, because people are always coming and going so employers are used to training new bartenders, servers, baristas, etc. If you want to work as a bartender or server, you’ll need to complete an online exam unless you’re living in Victoria (where they require an in-person exam) before you start working. The exam is pretty easy and having the RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) and the RSG (Responsible Service of Gaming) can be a great investment so you can get work in bars, restaurants, cafes and gaming places.

Getting a job in hospitality is fairly easy to do, especially if you have prior experience. It’s one of a few jobs where you could be paid ‘cash in hand’.

 

Nanny and Au Pair Jobs in Australia

 

Nanny and au pair jobs are quite common to do while working and travelling in Australia. If you have experience working with children, this can be a great option. You can choose to be a live-in nanny or au pair where you’d be living with the family and wouldn’t have to pay for your accommodation. Some families will also cover food expenses, which can be a huge plus!

Whilst these jobs can be great if you’re trying to save money, it may be difficult to meet other people around your age. It’s also not the best choice if you hope to travel since you’ll probably be expected to stay at least a few months to build a connection with the children.

 

Nursing Jobs in Australia

 

Nursing is a popular option if you have the qualifications. To be a nurse in Australia you need to get registration in each state you wish to work as there is no Australia-wide registration. If you don’t want to go down this track there are agencies where you could be a support worker in aged care and / or disability where you nursing skills will be greatly appreciated. Jobs can be in residential facilities and in the community. However, with community work you may need access to a car so you can get to clients though I have known many who catch the local bus network. Or be a nanny or Au Pair.

 

Complete Your Farm Work in Australia

 

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, if you complete a certain number of weeks working ‘specified work’ such as on a farm, you can qualify for a second or third year working holiday visa! If you know you’d like to stay in Australia for as long as possible, it’s recommended that you complete the farm work near the beginning of your year there.

You’ll need to complete 3 months during your first year in order to apply for a second year working holiday visa. Then if you hope to apply for the third year working holiday visa, you’ll have to complete 6 months during your second year. Keep in mind that it’s 3 and 6 months of “working days” so it typically ends up being closer to 4 months (88 calendar days) and 8 months (179 calendar days), respectively.

So what is this ‘farm work’? It’s more formally referred to as ‘specified regional work’ and it can be anything from working on a dairy farm to picking fruit. You may also find some hospitality jobs that count towards the specified work, depending on where they’re located. Most farms are located further inland than the major cities and are fairly isolated. You’ll be working with people from all around the world who are also working to get an additional year.

The pay for specified regional work varies from place to place. Some pay an hourly rate, while others pay based on the amount of fruit you picked that day.

When looking to apply to work for a farm, it’s best to go off a personal recommendation from someone who has worked there previously to ensure your work will count towards getting another year visa. Also take the climate into account when looking for work. Summers can be gruelling with temperatures regularly reaching well above 40 degrees celsius! Working outside picking fruit and vegetables in extreme weather will mean you need to have the right gear. Clothes that cover you up, plenty of sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and don’t forget plenty of water. Fly and insect deterrent spray will also come in handy.

You can find more information on specified work opportunities to extend your visa in Australia here.

 

Other Job Opportunities For Working Holiday Makers in Australia

 

If the previous jobs aren’t up your alley, you can also find work in different areas.

1. Internships – If you’ve recently graduated and are hoping to get experience related to your career, you may be able to find an internship! They don’t usually pay much but it can be a way to get your foot in the door with other jobs in the future.

2. Office Temp Work – There is a range of temporary job opportunities that are perfect for those doing a working holiday in Australia. Hays is a great place to start if you’re hoping to have someone help place you in a position that matches your skills and experience. You can also search on Seek or LinkedIn. Some common temp jobs include working at a call centre, doing data entry, typing or doing office administration. There are also possibilities to work in accounting and banking and other financial fields if you are qualified in these areas. This type of work is usually found in the major cities of Sydney and Melbourne.

3. Tutoring – If you’re skilled in math, science, English or have experience working with special needs students, you can find tutoring work in Australia. It’s one of the highest paying cash in hand jobs you’ll come across.

4. Hostel or other Accommodation Job – Your accommodation can also be a good source of employment. Many find employment in hostels and caravan parks working on reception, cleaning or has handy people. Read my post on Working in Australian Hostels. But simply on arrival at your accommodation, make it be known that you are interested in work and you never know what opportunity might arise. There are also plenty of Facebook pages designed for people working and travelling around Australia where you can find work. Some I have seen are Working While Living On The Road and The Grey Nomads. I suggest you search through the Facebook groups and join those that catch your eye.

 

READ MORE: How to get a Hostel Job in Australia

 

5. Work Online

After spending at least a year living and working in Australia, you will most likely have seen a lot of the country! You may want to start a blog to share your experiences with other travellers, answering specific questions they may have. It’s a great way to connect with others who love to travel and create a community. However, there are many other online jobs you could do. They include but not limited to, Doing Surveys Online, Online Trading Shares or Cryptocurrency and being a VA (Virtual Assistant).

 

READ MORE: How to start a Blog

 

6. Become a Digital Nomad

Australia is not known for being a digital nomad Mecca such as other countries like Bali, Mexico, Georgia and Spain but, if you want to work and travel Australia, why not be a digital nomad? Australia has a pretty good Internet service and other infrastructure for digital nomads. So like many who make a living from working on line already could easily travel around Australia and continue working on line. There is plenty of accommodation, coffee shops and co-working spaces where you could work.

 

READ MORE: How To Be A Digital Nomad In Australia

 

7. Work a season in a ski resort

 

What’s that? Australia has ski resorts! Yes they do. The two main states where ski resorts are, are in NSW and Victoria. The season officially starts on the June Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend (usually the second weekend) and ends on the Long weekend in October (usually the second weekend) but it does depend on the white stuff. You could spend 3-4 living and working in a ski resort.

 

READ MORE: Work and Ski Australia: How To Work A Snow Season in Australia

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Step 6: How to Travel Australia and What to See and Do

 

So much to see and do in Australia – I hope you have enough time! I designed this map based on my first big lap around Australia

 

Arguably the best part of any working holiday in Australia is the travelling and experiencing everything Australia has to offer. As the country is very big and has so much to see and do it would be easy to spend three months (minimum) travelling the country. Check out the map above that has suggestions of what to see and do in Australia and how long to spend in each place. I designed this map based on my own travels around Australia. These are only my suggestions because as you travel around Australia you will find many other fabulous spots to spend your time. Plus it depends on the time you have available for your travels. You could either work for 6 months then travel for 6 months. Or perhaps you are working your way around Australia spending a couple of months in different places.

There are a number of travel options for getting around Australia. Here are the most popular.

 

My Top Suggestions of Places to Visit in Australia

 

• Each capital city in each state and territory in Australia has plenty of things to see and do.
• Drive the East Coast from Sydney to Cape Tribulation.
• Spend a few days chilling in the ‘Hippie Capital of Australia’ – Byron Bay
• Snorkel or Dive the Great Barrier Reef.
• Spend a few days in Kakadu feeding crocodiles and discovering the Indigenous Culture through the Rock Art.
• Visit the centre of Australia – well roughly – Alice Springs.
• Stand in awe and watch a sunset or sunrise at Uluru (formerly Ayers Rock).
• Discover underground buildings and opals in Cooper Pedy.
• Swim with Whale Sharks in WA
• Have a selfie with a Quokka.
• Drive along the Great Ocean Road to see the 12 Apostles.
• Enjoy a sporting match at the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground).

 

Transport Options to Travel around Australia

 

Bus

 

There is an extensive bus network in Australia. Greyhound Australia is the biggest bus company in Australia and they have many tickets available including hop on hop off passes that will take you around Australia. Their network of buses include free Wifi for those who want to work online. They also have bus and accommodation packages. For more information visit the Greyhound Australia website www.greyhound.com.au.

 

Train

 

There is a train network but the trains don’t go everywhere. There are some great train journeys. The Indian Pacific running from Sydney to Perth is 4352km long and takes 4 days. The Ghan that goes from Adelaide to Alice Springs to Darwin. The journey taking 54 hours to travel the 2,979 kilometres between Adelaide and Darwin with the one stop in Alice Springs. There is the shorter Overland train trip between Adelaide and Sydney only taking a day. And lastly, the Great Southern taking you from Brisbane through NSW country to Adelaide. All these great trips can be booked at Journey Beyond Rail.

 

Plane

 

You can also fly. Each major city has its own airport and there are plenty of regional airports as well. The biggest airlines include QANTAS, Virgin Blue and Jetstar. You can book a flight directly through the airlines.

 

Cars, Vans, Caravans

 

Many buy or rent a vehicle like a van and take their time travelling around the country. After all, this is the best way to see Australia, on the ground, being able to deviate when you see something that interests you. Australia has many great road trips to undertake. One of the most popular with working holiday makers to Australia is the Pacific Highway road trip along the East Coast from Sydney to Cairns. If you want to rent a vehicle check out types of cars and their pricing at major rental companies such as Budget, Avis and TravellersAutobarn.com.  

 

What Are You Waiting For? An Australia Working Holiday is the right move!

 

With nothing to lose and everything to gain, why not try a working holiday in Australia? You’ll gain valuable work experience, make lifelong friends from around the globe and have a chance to experience all of the beauty Australia has to offer. Oh, and you might also see a couple of kangaroos along the way! And after Australia, why not look for another country to work and travel? Here’s a list of potential working holiday destinations.

For more in depth information on living, working and playing in Australia visit my niche website www.liveworkplay-australia.com. Come discover Australia now. 

I hope you have a great Australian working holiday. Even if you don’t do much work, but do a lot of travelling around Australia, I’d love to hear about it in the comments following. Or if you are in the planning stage of your working holiday in Australia, feel free to ask a question.

 

More Working Holiday Visa Guides to Help You Travel and Work Abroad

Live and Work Abroad in Asia with one of the Asia Working Holiday Visas

 

Asia is home to diverse countries. The region is very popular with travellers and sees millions of them visiting each year. Many visitors to Asia like to extend their stay. One way they this is by applying for a working holiday visa for one of the Asian countries that offer this visa. And there are a number of Asian countries that offer an Asia working holiday visa or Asia work and holiday visa.

With a working holiday visa Asia you will be able to move abroad to live and work in Asia. So if you would like to extend your stay in Asia or in a specific Asian country read on and see which countries in Asia offer a working holiday visa. With one, you can have an extended stay of up to a year or more. Then you can immerse yourself in the local culture to enjoy the sights, food and the lifestyle. As I like to say, you can live, work and play in Asia.

 

Why Choose Asia as a Working Holiday Destination?

 

Well why not? Asia attracts visitors for many reasons. Many travellers love to visit Asian countries for the diverse cultures, great tasting food and the lower cost of living. All these things make the choice to travel to Asia a cheaper holiday option. And Asia has different visas available for people to extend their stay in the region. Work permits, digital nomad visas and the working holiday visa which this post is about.

 

Working Holiday Visas and Work and Holiday Visas Available in Asia

 

If you want to live and work abroad in Asia you are in luck. There are two types of visas allowing an Asia working holiday.

• working holiday visa and
• work and holiday visa

 

There are a number of countries in Asia with a working holiday visa or work and holiday visa available. Most of the working holiday visas are available to citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Britain and Canada. However, there are many more nationalities that have arrangements in place.

Check out the current list of countries in the Asia area following. This list was correct at the time of writing. If you notice any amendments or additions required, please let me know so I can keep it up to date for future fellow travellers.

 

The Requirements of Asian Working Holiday Visas

 

To qualify for a working holiday visa or work and holiday visa you need to be:

• aged 18-30 (sometimes 35 years of age)
• be single
• possibly meet health requirements
• possess a certain amount of dollars in a bank account to prove you can support yourself for your initial stay

 

if successfully granted the visa you will be:

• able to stay in the country for up to 1-2 years
• take work to support your stay
• travel around the country

 

Asia Working Holiday Visas

 

A number of countries located in Asia have a working holiday visa or work and holiday visa available. I have listed them in alphabetical order.

 

Bangladesh Working Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to Bangladesh.

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (inclusive)
Other: Meet health and character requirements. Have no dependent children accompanying you. Have a return ticket or sufficient funds for a return or onward fare
Contact: Your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Bangladesh

 

China Working Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to China.

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Chinese Embassy or Consulate for more details and to apply

 

Hong Kong Working Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to Hong Kong.

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand and the United Kingdom
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years at the time of application
Other: be of good health and good character
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Hong Kong

 

Indonesia Work and Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to Indonesia. Many people who fall in love with Bali while holidaying there, apply for this visa. It allows them an extended stay in paradise. Bali is also a popular digital nomad destination.

Visa: Work and Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia – capped at 1000
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years at time of the application
Contact: Nearest Indonesian Consulate

 

Japan Working Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to Japan. Japan is a popular working holiday destination. It is a popular place to move abroad and live and work in Japan teaching English. Teaching English is the most popular travel job found by working holiday makers to Japan. Working in a Japanese ski resort is fast catching up as a popular working holiday job. Both are great travel jobs to help you immerse yourself in the Japanese culture plus earn a living at the same time.

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia, Denmark, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, South Korea, New Zealand, Norway,Taiwan, Hong Kong (SAR), Ireland, Slovakia, Poland, Portugal and the United Kingdom
Length of stay: 12 months, pls note a one year visa may be granted to citizens of Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, South Korea, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Finland and United Kingdom. A 6-month visa may be granted to citizens of Australia which can be extended twice and once for citizens of New Zealand and Canada.
Age: 18 to 30 years at the time of application
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Japan

 

READ MORE:
Japan Working Holiday Guide
How to Teach English in Japan
1 Month Japan Itinerary for First Timers
Work and Ski Japan

 

Malaysia Working Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to Malaysia.

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Malaysia

 

Philippines Working Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to the Philippines.

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Philippines

 

Singapore Work and Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to Singapore.

Visa: Work and Holiday
Available to undergraduates and graduates from universities and equivalent institutions of: Australia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 17 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Singapore

 

READ MORE: How to Spend 7 Days in Singapore

 

South Korea Working Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to South Korea.

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Czech Republic, Japan, Hungary, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Taiwan, UK and The United States
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 25 or 30 years inclusive (depending on country of origin)
Other: If granted, you may not be employed as receptionist, dancer, singer, musician, acrobat etc. Also not at places of entertainment which might endanger good morals and manners. Or engage in types of business which go against the tenor of the agreement. This could be not to provide medical treatment and other professions which require certain qualifications in accordance with South Korean domestic law.
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of South Korea.

 

Taiwan Working Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to Taiwan.

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Japan, Canada, Germany, Hungary, New Zealand, Poland, Slovakia, South Korea, United Kingdom and Ireland
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: Nearest Embassy or Consulate of Taiwan

 

Thailand Working Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to Thailand. For a long time now, Thailand is a popular holiday destination mainly for its low cost of living. Many a traveler have found a job teaching English in one of the English language schools. These schools quite often sponsor travellers to come and work for them as English language teachers.

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Other: have tertiary qualifications (full time courses with at least 3 years of study)
Contact: Australian citizens should contact the Thai Consulate in Sydney. New Zealand citizens should contact the Thai Embassy in Wellington.

 

READ MORE: Life in Thailand as an Expat

 

Vietnam Working Holiday Visa

 

Here are the requirements to qualify for a working holiday visa to Vietnam.

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years inclusive
Contact: nearest Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam

Once you have your visa sorted you will be interested to know about work opportunities. Read Work and Travel Asia for some suggestions on types of work you can do in Asia.

 

How Do You Apply for Asian Working Holiday Visas?

 

To apply for one of the Asian working holiday visas, firstly visit your nearest Consulate or Embassy of the country you would like to apply to. Read all the information, get all your documents together, then apply for the visa by following the instructions. Hopefully, it will be approved and you will be on your way to work and travel Asia.

 

Types of Work Available on a Working Holiday Visa

 

There are different types of backpacker travel jobs available to working holiday makers in Asia. Most work in Asia for foreigners is Teaching English however, other opportunities include working in a backpacker hostel or behind a bar as a bartender. Depending on your knowledge of the local language you could find a job in retail or in an office. For qualified scuba diving instructors you may find a job at a dive store as there are many wonderful diving spotsto be found in the Asian waters.

 

Over 30 – Don’t Qualify For A Working Holiday Visa in Asia – What Do You Do?

 

If you don’t qualify for a working holiday visa for one of the Asian countries with a working holiday visa because you are over the age limit or are not from a participating country that has a reciprocal arrangement don’t stress, as there are opportunities available. Some people do use the holiday visas to their advantage. They stay the full 90 days then do a ‘visa run’. By going to another Asian country for a day or so, then returning to their favoured Asian country for another 90 day stay. Other ways include finding an organisation that will sponsor you such as teaching English in an English language school. What about working on a cruise ship that sails around the Asian islands? There are other opportunities available, read my post Over 30 – Your Work and Travel Options for some working abroad inspiration.

 

A Word on Asia Digital Nomad Visas

 

A number of Asian countries have introduced digital nomad visas which is a visa that allows people who work online to live and work abroad online in another country. Although the digital nomad visa is for those who work online, sometimes you may need to supplement your income with a job. For Asian countries that have a digital nomad visa, I have a post on this here. 

 

Are You Ready to Live Work and Play in Asia on a Working Holiday Visa?

 

Have you worked in an Asian country on a working holiday visa or found other work such as teaching English? Then I’d love to hear in the comments following.

 

RELATED
Packing List for a Working Holiday in Asia
Other Countries with a Working Holiday Visa
Live Work and Travel Asia

 

Is a Japan working holiday visa on your radar?

Many dream of moving abroad and living and working in Japan. Japan is a unique country. There is centuries of ancient history juxtaposed into modern-day life. From palaces to tea ceremonies to exploring natural wonders like Mount Fuji, a visit to Japan offers experiences like no other country can. That’s why obtaining a working holiday visa for Japan is an excellent opportunity. With a Japanese working holiday visa, you will be able to immerse yourself in the culture and enjoy all that Japan has to offer.

This post covers everything you need to know about going to Japan on a working holiday visa. So if a Japanese working holiday is on your radar, read on so you can come say ‘Konnichiwa’.

 

Is a Working Holiday in Japan for You?

 

A working holiday in Japan doesn’t appeal to everyone. Three main reasons come to mind why people don’t choose Japan as their first overseas working holiday destination.

• First, people believe Japan is very expensive.
• Second, they don’t speak the local language.
• And third, people think the only work opportunity available in Japan is Teaching English to Japanese people.

 

Well yes, these are very good reasons not to go to Japan but they shouldn’t stop you. Yes, Japan is considered to be an expensive country, particularly in the major cities of Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. But, a working holiday in Japan offers a lot of great opportunities. Why go to Japan on a working holiday visa?

• You can immerse yourself in a new culture.
• Learn a new language
• Enjoy different food – sushi anyone!
• Get paid for working to cover your costs.
• Have the time of your life. 

 

Do these reasons to go on a Japanese working holiday change any mis-conceptions you may have?

 

What is a Working Holiday in Japan?

 

Some countries have agreed to have reciprocal working holiday visas that allow young people, aged between 18 to 30 years, sometimes up to 35 years to go to a country for an extended stay. And Japan is one of those countries.

The main purpose of a working holiday in Japan is to holiday and travel around Japan to discover its culture. However, because you are allowed a stay up to 12 months or longer with the visa, it allows you to gain work so you can earn extra cash to help you holiday and travel. A working holiday visa is a great way to legally live, work and play in Japan.

 

The Japan Working Holiday Visa

 

There are a number of visas that allow you to live and work in Japan for an extended period. These include the student visa, the work permit and Japan digital nomad visa however, this guide is all about the working holiday visa for Japan.

 

Can You Go On a Japan Working Holiday Visa

 

Firstly, you. need to know if you can go on a working holiday to Japan. Currently, Japan has working holiday agreements with 19 countries/regions. They include:

• Australia
• New Zealand
• Canada
• Republic of Korea
• France
• Germany
• The United Kingdom
• Republic of Ireland
• Denmark
• Taiwan
• Hong Kong
• Norway
• Portugal
• Poland
• Slovakia
• Austria
• Hungary
• Spain
• Argentina.

 

How to Apply for a Working Holiday Visa for Japan

 

To participate in the working holiday visa program you must apply for the visa. If your country is on the list that has a reciprocal working holiday visa agreement, and you are between 18-30 years of age you are almost there. You still need to satisfy a number of requirements and go through an application process. Requirements for the Japan working holiday visa include:

 

• Residing in your own country when applying.
• Intend primarily to holiday.
• Be aged between 18 and 30 years of age inclusive at time of application (some applicants must be between 18 and 25 years inclusive).
• Possess reasonable funds for the maintenance and length of your stay.

 

Process to Apply for Japanese Working Holiday Visa

 

There is a bit of a process to go through to obtain this visa. You will need to submit an updated CV and write a letter on why you want to live and work in Japan. For more details on the working holiday visa and to apply for one contact your nearest Embassy or Consulate-General of Japan in your own country/region. You can also find more details about the Japan working holiday visa at www.mofa.go.jp.

 

The best time to go to Japan on a Working Holiday

 

Anytime is a good time to visit Japan although the seasons, the cost of airfares and accommodation, public holidays along with the availability of work opportunities can all play a major role.

 

The seasons

 

Japan has distinct seasons. The north and the mountains have snow in winter. Spring is mild while summer is hot and humid. Spring and autumn are the most popular times to travel. Summer begins in June and generally isn’t a great time to visit because of the stifling humidity and frequent showers. If this doesn’t bother you then visiting during summer would be fine. Nonetheless, northern Honshu and Hokkaido are much cooler than the rest of the country and offer many choices for outdoor recreation particularly skiing and snowboarding. The typhoon season is from the end of August into September though most storms run their course before they hit mainland Japan, you can expect to encounter a couple of big storms.

 

A snow-capped Mount Fuji

 

Cost of airfares and accommodation

 

The cost of an airfare and accommodation can play a role in when you head to Japan. Airfares and accommodation prices can fluctuate with the popularity of different seasons. I suggest you look out for specials on airfares. And for accommodation deals there are many choices on websites such as Booking.com.

 

Employment

 

If you are heading to Japan for a specific type of employment like skiing or snowboarding instructing or other work in the ski fields winter is the obvious choice. From December to March much of Japan is covered in snow. The teaching year begins in the first week of April so if you are looking for a contract you are best to look in March as most full-time teaching contracts start and finish in this month. Though schools do recruit throughout the year. Other employment, like in bars, is available throughout the year.

 

Holidays and things to see and do

 

Other things influencing your decision of when to go to Japan can include national holidays.  Golden week (late April to early May) and Obon Week (mid-August) are the biggest national holidays and the peak travelling season for the Japanese. New Year from December 27th to January 5th and school summer vacation from July 20th through to the end of August can also be busy and tickets and accommodation can be very difficult (and expensive) to find during these times. However, if there are particular things you want to see and do, don’t let a few dollars you might save on going at a cheaper time stop you. Check out some of the things following:

 

Where will you Stay in Japan – Accommodation Options in Japan

 

There is plenty of accommodation both short-term and long-term available in Japan. The accommodation can be western-style or more traditional Japanese-style. It is advisable to have accommodation organised for your arrival. I would suggest at least 2 weeks, because by the time you have gotten over any jetlag, done some sightseeing and got your bearings, the two weeks will probably be up. There is lots of short-term accommodation available. Tokyo and Osaka are the two main cities with international airports and more than likely, you will arrive at one of these cities. They are great to start your working holiday in and off some great accommodation options for your arrival

Many start their Japanese working holiday in Tokyo, which is huge and deciding where to start can be daunting. The two places I suggest you consider are the areas of Shibuya or Shinjuku. Shibuyu is a great base as it has a massive train station and is famous for the Scramble Crossing. Shinjuku is another major hub and is home to the busiest train station in Japan. So some short-term accommodation options could be:

Hostel: Nui Hostel Tokyo, Sakura Hotel Nippori (also can help with long-term share house style options)
Hotel: Best Western Tokyo.
For a bit of luxury: Hilton Tokyo, Dai-Ichi Hotel

If arriving in Osaka, here are some accommodation options:

Hostel: Guest House Matsu
Hotel: Dormy Inn Premium, Hotel Unizo

For more options, check out Booking.com.

 

Things to do on Arrival on Your Japanese Working Holiday

 

When you arrive in Japan, there are some things you must do before you can begin to live, work and play in Japan. These include:

 

Get a phone

 

Phones offer many services including maps to help you get around and find things as well as being contactable for employers to offer you work. So the first thing to do is to get yourself a phone or if you have a phone, purchase a local SIM. It will come in very handy.

TIP:  Japan SIM plans are divided into two categories – data only or data + voice. Without voice, you won’t be able to receive or make regular phone calls. However, you can use Skype, WhatsApp and other apps that allow calls over the internet. Some to consider include Mobal, Sakura Mobile, IlJmio and Biglobe SIM to name a few.

 

Find somewhere to live

 

Finding somewhere to live long-term in Japan can be a challenge. When looking for longer-term accommodation your best bet is to look in the gaijin press. Have a look at www.gaijinpot.com to find yourself an apartment. You may want to consider where you are working before you sign on the dotted line as you don’t want to have to travel too far to get to and from work each day.

 

Get your Residence Card

 

On your arrival for the first time in Japan, you will fill out an arrivals card. Write ‘working holiday’ in the section asking for the purpose of your visit. When going through customs, the immigration official, after sighting your passport and visa will give you a Residence Permit Card. This is your form of identification when living and working in Japan so make sure you keep the card safe.

 

Apply for Residency and Your My Number Card

 

Now you are through the airport formalities, you have two weeks in which to register with the local municipal office. You will need to register with a Japanese address but if you don’t have one yet, you can use your hostel, hotel or a friend’s place – if you have one! In a few weeks you will receive a My Number card at the address you supplied. This card will have a 12 digit number on it that is used for taxation and social security. Yes, another thing to keep safe! By the way, employees are required to pay a 20 tax for the first 12 months they work, which will automatically be deducted from your wage.

 

Open a Bank Account

 

If you are working in Japan, you will need a bank account so your employer/s can put your wages into. Most Japanese banks require you to have lived in Japan for six months before they will open an account for however, there are some like Shinsei Bank and Japan Post Bank that will be more helpful. Don’t forget to take your passport, residence card and a Japanese phone number.

 

Types of Working Holiday Jobs in Japan

 

Teaching English in Japan is the largest source of employment for gaijin

 

Teach English in Japan

 

The largest source of employment for gaijin is to teach English. There are two options. You can organise a job before you arrive or you can find one on arrival. Many first-timers organise one before they move abroad to Japan because they are guaranteed a position and accommodation is usually included. And you will enter under a sponsored work visa rather than the working holiday visa. The only thing is you are committed to your sponsor. With the working holiday visa you can choose who you wish to work for.

Having a TEFOL or TESOL qualification will give you an edge to finding a teaching position. Most find a position in an Eikaiwa private English conversation schools of which there are around 8,000 of. Many are part of chains such as Aeonet, Berlitz and Saxoncourt. You may also consider applying to come on the JET Program as specific program as a teaching aid or sports co-ordinator. www.jetprogramme.org.To learn more about Teaching English in Japan read my post here.

 

Work and Ski Japan

 

If teaching isn’t your scene there are other options. The snow fields in Japan are a hot destination and many come to the slopes to ski and snowboard. All sorts of jobs present themselves in the mountain resorts. Hospitality staff in the resorts are required and are ski and snowboard instructors. This is a great option as resort jobs usually include room and board – that takes care of work and accommodation in the one go! If you are wanting to find a job in a Japanese ski resort head over to the BooBooSki site www.boobooski.com. You can apply for ski jobs in Japan here. Read my work and ski Japan post to discover more jobs in the Japanese snow.

Depending on your Japanese language skills you could find a position in accounting, banking, hospitality and retail. There may be work at a theme park such as Tokyo Disneyland, translating and interpreting, busking or you could WWOOF (Willing Workers on Organic Farms) where in return for your work in agriculture, you will receive room and board in return. Working in a hostel is another option, read my post on finding work in a backpacker hostel here.

 

How to find a job in Japan

 

There are a number of options to finding a job in Japan. Here are some options.

 

Online Job Sites

 

There are several online Japanese job sites that are in English where you can find your next employment. Try Jobs in Japan, GaijinPot and DaiJob. 

 

Employment Agencies

 

There are a number of employment agencies you could register with to help you find a job in Japan. In Tokyo check out Tokyo Employment Service Centre for Foreigners. Or there are big international agencies such as Robert Walters you could register with.

 

Playing and Travelling in Japan

 

Playing in Japan I think is the best part of any working holiday. You will have it in your mind the things you want to experience and places you want to go. From the hustle and bustle of the big cities of Tokyo and Osaka to the beautiful countryside to the culture steeped in history. At least you have a year to try and see as much of Japan as you can. One of the best ways to get around Japan is with a JapanRail Pass. There are a number of them on offer that will give you access to many parts of Japan. To see what passes are available and to purchase one a JapanRail Pass here.

TIP: Purchase your JapanRail Pass in advance.

READ MORE:
1 Month Japan Itinerary for First Timers
How to Spend 3 Days in Tokyo
1 Day Visit to Mount Fuji from Tokyo
Day Trip to Mt Fuji
Travelling Japan on the JapanRail Pass
Learn to Make Japanese Food – Best Japanese Cookery Schools
Stay safe from earthquakes and tsunamis in Japan
Experience a Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony

 

Are You Ready to Move Abroad to Live and Work in Japan?

 

Living, working and playing in Japan is a great experience. Once you have the two main things sorted: a job in Japan and a place to live in Japan you can then start to immerse yourself in your new found life on your working holiday in Japan.

I know Japan can be a frustrating and confusing place when you are newly arrived, but once you begin to learn the Japanese way of doing things, Japan can be a very friendly and enjoyable place. Culture shock is, after all, part of immersing yourself in another country. If you have been on, or are planning a working holiday in Japan, I would love to hear your comments below.

 

A great way to live abroad and work and travel abroad is on a working holiday visa. The decision to quit your job and leave your responsibilities to go on a working holiday abroad isn’t always an easy one. However, many people leave all the time to work and travel around the world. There are both pros and cons to a working holiday. If you are wondering whether you should go on a working holiday, here are my 9 good reasons why I believe a working holiday is a good idea. 

 

What Is a Working Holiday?

 

A working holiday is when you are allowed to spend an extended stay in another country to holiday, travel and work. Many countries have a reciprocal working holiday agreement in place that allows young people aged 18-30, sometimes up to 35 years of age a stay of up to 12 months, but sometimes up to 24 months. Being eligible for a working holiday visa will let you immerse yourself in another country to discover the culture, food, work with the locals and see incredible things as you travel around. Check out my Working Holiday Visa overview further in this blog.

 

Don’t Qualify for a Working Holiday? Don’t Worry

 

If you don’t qualify for a Working Holiday Visa because of your age, don’t worry, there are still plenty of options to work and travel abroad out there for you. Opportunities may not be as abundant as what opportunities a working holiday offers, however, there are still opportunities to  travel and work abroad. If you are in your 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s or older, get inspiration here Over 30 Your Travel and Work Options. Or get a copy of my ebook of the same name.

 

What is a Working Holiday Visa?

 

To go on a working holiday, you need to qualify, apply for and be granted a working holiday visa. The visa sets out the rules allowing you to live and work in another country. I have a listing of countries with a working holiday visa further on in this post.

 

Reasons To Go On a Working Holiday

 

As with everything, there are pros and cons to going on a working holiday abroad. Let’s start with the pros, which by the way, far outweigh the cons of a working holiday. So if you are nervous and need an extra push to go on a working holiday, here are the benefits of a working holiday.

 

1. A Working Holiday Lets You Stay Longer

 

As mentioned, a working holiday allows participants to stay longer in a particular country. A number of countries, including Australia, Canada, the UK and many EU, Asian and South American countries offer Working Holiday Visas. You will be able to experience more than what you would if you were only going on a short trip. A typical tourist visa is for three months, while the working holiday visa is 12 months, sometimes up to 24 months. Even if you decide not to work, you will be allowed to stay for a longer time. For example, in Australia, a typical tourist visa is for 3 months, but a working holiday visa can be granted for 12 months and can be increased to 24 months if you complete 88 days of certain work. Twelve months, or even 24 months would allow you to experience a lot more of what the country has to offer.

 

2. Top Up Your money

 

The idea behind a working holiday is that you will be able to work during your working holiday, usually for half of your stay. Working allows you to earn money to support yourself during your stay. Many have been able to save while on a working holiday and been able to fund their travels not only in the country they are living and working in, but other countries also. This is one of the best reasons to do a working holiday because you can top up your travel fund with casual employment to keep on travelling. And there are many backpacker travel jobs you could pick up along the way.

 

3. You Can Leave For Your Trip Sooner

 

Apart from proving you have enough funds for your initial stay during your working holiday, you do not need to save up thousands of dollars in advance before your adventure. This means you can leave sooner on your adventure because you will be able to work during your working to earn more money to fund more travels. So if you are worried about running out of the money, a big positive to a working holiday is that you can work to earn money.

 

4. You Can Try Your Hand at Typical Working Holiday Traveller Jobs

Bartending is a typical traveller job you could try while on your working holiday.

 

With the idea that you can pick up work while on a working holiday, it is not always expected that you will work in your current profession. This is because in many cases you will need to do bridging exams and/or register with professional bodies before you can work. This can all be time consuming and costly. So many travellers try their hand at something different. This could be serving pints in a London Pub. Maybe you could be a Jackaroo or Jillaroo in the Australian outback. What about picking grapes in Europe. Possibly be a nanny in New York or work on reception in a hostel. Or maybe you would like to obtain a diving certificate to become a dive master! There are so many different opportunities to try while you travel and work on a working holiday. Visit my Work Options page for some inspiration. You can also read what work these 10 travellers did on their working holiday.

 

5. Meet the Locals

 

When you are backpacking around the world, the majority of people you meet are those on tours or in hostels. Staying for an extended period of time in one place allows and taking working lets you to meet the locals. When you begin work you will be working with a local (usually). And sometimes you can form bonds with these locals who may become long-lasting friends. They will introduce you to the local culture – and that is a great thing about going on a working holiday. I have a number of those from my travels and I now have places to stay when I visit Auckland, Los Angeles, London and Hong Kong.

 

👉👉👉👉Get My Working Holiday Packing List here.

 

6. Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture

 

There is only so much you can do and learn on a short trip to another country. Spending an extended time in one country allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and truly appreciate many aspects of a different way of life. From seeing things the local people do. Enjoying the local food. Seeing natural wonders of the country and maybe the local neighbourhoods. Experience vibrant cities and discover and experience the different culture. In addition, the work experience you will have gained by working in a foreign country, is likely to benefit you when you return home.

 

 7. Working Abroad Looks Good on Your CV

 

Yes, that’s right. Listing work and any volunteering done during your working holiday can be a great advantage on your CV for when you ‘settle down’. Some employers appreciate that a potential employee has had experience working overseas and has broader cultural understanding. Plus any new skills you may have acquired.

 

8. Have the Time of Your Life

 

Do I need to elaborate on this one? I wil! Mostly you should have the time of your life while on your working holiday or working holidays. There will be ups and downs and some frustrations. Hopefully you will remain safe as you immerse yourself in local cultures and enjoy everything the place you are in has to offer. Enjoy your working holiday, but also be safe.

 

9. A Working Holiday Offers a Chance to Assess a Potential Expat Location

 

Being allowed an extended stay in another country, offers you a chance to assess it as a potential future expat location. If you ‘fell in love’ with the country you could assess whether or not this would be a good permanent move for you. You time there will allow first-hand knowledge of what the job market is like, what suburbs you would want to live in and other general things about the country. A working holiday could be a trial run. You would then need to look into what visa would allow you to move abroad to another country. Many people are doing so by being transferred there by their employer, working remotely for their employer or becoming a digital nomad.

 

Cons of Working Holidays

 

After going on a UK working holiday myself, I can only come up with 2 disadvantages of a working holiday visa.

 

1. There is an Age Limit

 

Yes, I’ve never been sure why that is. But there is an age limit for working holiday makers. Most working holiday visas have an age limit of 18-30 years, but some have an age limit of 18-35 years. If you are over this age you cannot apply for a working holiday visa. But as I mentioned before, there are still options when you are over 30 to live abroad and work abroad. Plus look into other visas including digital nomad visas.

 

2. Not All Countries have a Working Holiday Visa

 

Unfortunately not all countries have a working holiday visa available. The most popular countries that do are Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Canada. These countries have reciprocal working holiday visas with many countries, but not all.

 

 

What Are the Two Types of Working Holiday Visa?

 

There are two types of working holiday visa available for those aged 18-35 years of age. They are, the Working Holiday Visa and the Work and Holiday Visa. They are very similar, yet have subtle differences. Both visas are basically a residence permit. If you qualify for one you can undertake employment in the country issuing the visa to supplement your travel funds. Sometimes there are restrictions on the type of work you can do in some of the countries. This is why you often here of typical ‘backpacker jobs’. The main difference between the two visas is the Work and Holiday Visa is aimed at students or recently qualified tertiary students. Where as the Working Holiday Visa is aimed at anyone aged between 18-30 (sometimes 35) years of age. Both visas allow you to undertake work while you are living in a particular destination.

 

Working Holiday Visa at a Glance

 

In general:

• Your main intention is to holiday and take incidental work.
• Must be 18 to 30 years (sometimes 18 to 35 years) inclusive at the time of your application.
• Be single or married without children.
• Prove you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your initial stay.
• Have a return and or onward ticket or sufficient funds so you can leave the country at the end of your stay.
• Each country issues a working holiday visa once in your life time. So make the most of your time. Most countries allow you to stay for 12 months. Some allow a stay of up to 24 months.

 

Work and Holiday Visa at a Glance

 

In general:

• Your main intention is to holiday and take incident work.
• Be 18 to 30 years (sometimes 18 to 35 years) inclusive at the time of your application.
• Hold a tertiary qualification or be studying full-time
• Speak English
• Obtain a letter of support from your Government.

 

Which Countries Have a Working Holiday Visa?

 

Please note. The following list was current at the time of writing this blog. I highly suggest that you visit the appropriate country’s website to get the latest information. Following is a quick overview of which countries offer a working holiday visa. Remember, if you don’t qualify for a working holiday visa check out the work and travel options for Over 30s here or other visas such as a student visa, work permit or digital nomad visa.

 

👉👉👉👉 See a Full List of Countries 🌏 with a Working Holiday Visa Here.

 

Are You Ready to go on a Working Holiday?

 

As you have read, the benefits of a working holiday far outweigh any drawbacks. And there are many countries that have a working holiday visa available. The hard part now is choosing which country you want to go to first! Whichever country or countries you choose can I just say, enjoy your working holiday.

 

👉👉👉👉Don’t forget Travel Insurance for your Working Holiday. Check out World Nomads and SafetyWingto get the right policy.

 

Visit Machu Picchu while on Central and South America working holiday visas.

 

If you are looking for a way to spend more time in Central and South America than a few weeks holiday, well, here they are. Central and South America has a number of working holiday visas available that allow those people who qualify for one, to stay for up to 12 months to live and work abroad. The countries that currently have a working holiday visa available include: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru, Uruguay. Each country offers a unique experience. Here is a quick lowdown on the working holiday visas available for Central and South America.

First, let’s discuss the basics of a working holiday visa. To obtain a working holiday visa for a Central or South American country you will need to be a citizen of the countries listed. You will also need to be between 18-30 years old. If you qualify, you will be given a visa that will allow you to live and work in a Central or South American country for up to one year. Don’t worry if you’re older than 30, take a look at my over 30 years of age work abroad options.

 

Central and South America Countries offering a Working Holiday Visa

 

Argentina

 

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia, Denmark, France, Germany, Republic of Ireland, New Zealand, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Sweden and Japan.
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (up to 35 years for New Zealand citizens)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Argentina.
Where to Start your Working Holiday: The best cities to live and work on a working holiday visa in Argentina are Cordoba, Bariloche and you cannot beat Buenos Aires.

 

Brazil

 

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: France, Germany, New Zealand and South Korea.
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Brazil.
Where to Start your Working Holiday: Most start their working holiday in Brazil in cities like Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paolo, Salvador and Florianopolis. 

READ MORE: Brazil Working Holiday

 

Chile

 

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, the Republic of Ireland, New Zealand, South Korea and Sweden.
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years (up to 35 years for citizens from Canada, Hungary and New Zealand)
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Chile.
Where to Start your Working Holiday: Most start their working holiday in Chile in Santiago andBahia Inglesa.

 

Colombia

 

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: France. Also Chile, Mexico and Peru via the Pacific Alliance.
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Republic of Columbia.
Citizens of Chile, Mexico and Peru can apply to the Pacific Alliance work and holiday visa.
Where to Start your Working Holiday: Popular cities to live and work in Colombia on a working holiday is Bogota, Medellin and Cartagena. Medellin is a popular digital nomad destination.

 

Costa Rica

 

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Canada
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 35 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Costa Rica.
Where to Start your Working Holiday: Most base themselves in San Jose.

 

Mexico

 

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Canada, France, Germany, South Korea and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 29 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Costa Rica.
Where to Start your Working Holiday: There are many places people start their working holiday in Mexico. Mexico City is popular. Many digital nomads and expats live and work in Merida, Puerto Vallarta and Playa de Carmen.

 

Peru

 

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Republic of Peru.
Where to Start your Working Holiday: Typically start your work and travels in Peru in Iquitos, Arequipa, Cusco and Lima.

 

Uruguay

 

Visa: Working Holiday
Available to citizens of: Australia, France and New Zealand
Length of stay: 12 months
Age: 18 to 30 years
Contact: your nearest Embassy or Consulate of Uruguay.
Where to Start your Working Holiday: Popular places to start your working holiday in Uruguay are in Montevideo, Cost Azul and Cabo Polonio.

 

What if I’m not a Citizen from one of those countries and still want to have a working holiday in Central or South America?

 

Some options:

If you don’t qualify for a working holiday visa, what many people do is go on a holiday visa which allows a stay of up to 90 days, then they do a visa run. This is where they leave one country, go to another and then return and receive another 90 days stay. 

If you are an American citizen, there is an agreement with Mexico that allows you to live and work there for up to 6 months.

The Pacific Alliance was established on 28 April 2011. It comprises of Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Peru that allows citizens of these countries to live and work in each others countries.

 

Types of Work You Can Get on a Working Holiday in Central and South America

 

Work is limited mostly due to language barriers. Many working holiday makers get work in bars, in hostels, and Teaching English. There are also opportunities to work and ski in a Chile ski resort.

 

READ MORE: Packing List for a Working Holiday

 

Are You Ready to Live Abroad on a Working Holiday Visa?

 

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