There are two types of visas available for those aged 18-35 years of age who want to move abroad to live and work in another country for an extended period (usually 1-2 years). The Working Holiday Visa and the Work and Holiday Visa. Here are the differences between the two visas and the specifics of whether you qualify for one.

Differences between the 2 Visas

Great news – both the 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. See following for more details on both of the visas.

To find out which countries have the visas available check out my Destinations page. Here you will find visa information of the countries where you could live, work and play either on the Working Holiday Visa and/or the Work and Holiday Visa.

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.

READ MORE: Countries with a Working Holiday Visa and Work and Holiday Visa

Over 30? These are Your Work Options

Over 30? 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 as you travel the world. Read my Over 30 Work and Travel Options post here.

If you want to apply for either the working holiday visa and or the work and holiday visa you should contact your nearest Consulate, Embassy or High Commission of the country to which you would like to have an extended stay.