A working holiday is one of the most straightforward ways to spend a gap year abroad. You don't need a job offer before you leave, and you can earn money while gaining international experience
What is a working holiday visa?
Allowing you to live, work and travel abroad for a set period of time, a working holiday visa is designed for people who want to combine exploring a new country with flexible, short-term employment.
It's one of the most accessible ways to gain international experience, and you're free to travel within the host country throughout your stay.
While requirements vary by destination, you'll usually need to:
- be aged between 18 and 30, or up to 35 in some countries.
- hold an eligible passport
- provide evidence of travel or health insurance (in some cases)
- show proof of savings.
Where can I go on a working holiday visa?
Australia
One of the most popular working holiday options for UK students and graduates, Australia stands out for good reason. Its well-established visa system, strong job market and large backpacker network make it relatively straightforward to organise your stay.
You'll find casual work widely available, particularly in:
- bars and cafés
- construction
- fruit picking and farm work
- tourism and hospitality.
Key things to know:
- applications are made online via ImmiAccount
- proof of funds of around AUD 5,000 (£2,635) is required
- visa fees are typically around AUD 670 (£350)
- you can usually work up to six months for one employer.
The main option is the Subclass 417 visa, which allows you to stay for up to 12 months, with the option to extend your visa for up to three years. As a UK citizen, you can apply up to age 35 and there's no annual cap.
You can also extend your stay, giving you greater flexibility.
Discover what it's really like to live and work in Australia.
New Zealand
If you're looking for a more adventurous experience, New Zealand offers a working holiday centred around travel and the outdoors - from mountains and glaciers to coastal road trips.
You'll find the lifestyle more relaxed and the country easy to navigate. Smaller cities and close-knit communities can make settling in easier, particularly if you prefer a quieter environment.
While the job market is smaller than Australia's, opportunities are still available, especially in seasonal industries such as tourism and agriculture.
Key things to know:
- applications are made online via Immigration New Zealand
- a return ticket - or funds to buy one - is usually required
- medical checks may be required for longer stays
- visa fees are typically around NZD$770 (£335)
- you'll need proof of funds based on your planned stay.
Seasonal demand shapes job availability, with ski resorts hiring in winter and hiking destinations creating roles in summer. Typical jobs include:
The visa usually allows you to stay for 12 months, with UK citizens able to extend up to 36 months. There is an annual cap of 15,000 places.
Read our work in New Zealand profile for practical advice on jobs, visas and day-to-day life.
Canada
Whether you base yourself in Toronto or Vancouver, or move between ski resorts and national parks, Canada combines city living with easy access to the outdoors.
Through the International Experience Canada (IEC) programme, you can shape your experience around your travel plans. It's a strong choice if you want a structured job market alongside the flexibility to explore, while its multicultural environment makes it especially welcoming for UK graduates.
Key things to know:
- health insurance covering your stay is required
- visa and participation fees typically total around CAD 250 (£130)
- processing usually takes several weeks after you receive an invitation
- proof of funds of around CAD 2,500 (£1,300) is required
- you apply through the IEC pool system.
In some cases, you can extend your stay through other IEC categories, allowing you to remain in Canada for up to three years.
Work availability often follows the seasons, with winter roles in ski resorts and summer opportunities in tourism. Common jobs include:
- customer service roles
- hospitality and tourism
- ski resorts and outdoor activity centres.
The visa typically allows you to stay for 12 to 24 months and gives you an open work permit with no job restrictions.
Explore our Canada work abroad profile to find out what to expect before you go.
Japan
A working holiday in Japan focuses less on earning and more on cultural immersion. If you're looking to step outside your comfort zone, it offers a unique blend of tradition and modern city life.
You'll experience a completely different way of living - You'll experience everyday life in Japan, from using its fast-paced transport system to taking part in seasonal festivals and adapting to local customs at work.
Key things to know:
- applications are usually made in person at the Embassy of Japan in the UK or Consulate-General of Japan in Edinburgh
- a re-entry permit may be needed if you plan to travel
- processing times are typically short
- some types of work, including jobs in bars and nightclubs, are not permitted
- you'll need proof of funds (around £2,000 GBP) and a return ticket - or funds to buy one.
You'll typically earn less than in destinations like Australia, while living costs - especially in major cities - can be higher.
Typical roles include:
- café, hostel and service roles
- hospitality and tourism
- teaching English.
The visa allows you to stay for up to 12 months, with the option to apply for a second year.
Read our Japan work abroad profile for more on jobs, visas and life abroad.
South Korea
With its city-focused lifestyle and relatively affordable living costs, South Korea offers a different take on the working holiday experience. Cities such as Seoul are fast-paced and well connected, with modern infrastructure and growing demand for English-speaking workers.
Compared to destinations like Japan or Singapore, your day-to-day costs are typically lower, making it easier to manage your budget and make the most of your time abroad.
Key things to know:
- applications are made in person via the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the UK
- a return ticket or sufficient funds is required
- health insurance and a police certificate are typically required
- you'll need proof of funds of around ₩3million (£1,500).
While some job types - like teaching, construction, and licensed professions - are restricted, opportunities are available in urban areas, including:
- customer-facing service roles
- hospitality and cafés
- tourism support and travel assistant roles.
The visa allows UK citizens to stay for up to 24 months and is available to those aged 18 to 35.
Other working holiday visa countries
You could also explore less common destinations, depending on your interests and career goals.
Popular alternatives include:
- Hong Kong - combines fast-paced city life with opportunities in hospitality, retail and finance-related environments.
- Singapore - offers a more structured experience through a Work Holiday Pass, with a focus on professional, office-based roles. Competition is high and living costs are higher, but it's a strong option for CV and employability building.
These destinations often have stricter eligibility requirements or more competition, but they offer unique cultural experiences and alternative career pathways.
If you're still exploring your options, browse our full list of work abroad guides.
How do I choose the right working holiday destination?
The best destination for you depends on your priorities and long-term plans. Consider:
- language requirements
- visa eligibility, age limits and duration
- the career value of the experience
- the type of work available - casual, seasonal or career-focused
- your budget, including visa fees and living costs
- your travel goals - cities, beaches or outdoor environments.
Before committing, take time to research:
- accommodation
- job markets
- visa requirements.
Making an informed choice will help you get more out of your experience - and present it more confidently to employers.
You should also think about how long you want to stay abroad and whether the visa duration fits your plans. To help you compare your options, take a lookat typical visa lengths by destination.
| Destination | Typical visa length |
|---|---|
| Australia | One year (extendable) |
| Canada | Two years |
| Hong Kong | One year |
| Japan | One year |
| New Zealand | One year (extendable) |
| Singapore | Six months |
| South Korea | Two years |
How do I find work abroad?
A working holiday visa allows you to work, but it doesn't guarantee a job - so planning ahead is essential.
Before you go, you can:
- browse international job boards
- contact specialist recruitment agencies
- look into seasonal roles.
Once you arrive:
- apply in person, especially for hospitality jobs
- check hostel noticeboards and community groups
- network with other travellers and locals
- use local job platforms and apps.
Many people find it easier to secure work once they're in the country.
Explore our tips on how to find a job and discover our tips on applying for jobs.
What do I need to apply for a working holiday visa?
While requirements vary by country, you'll usually need:
- a completed visa application and fee
- a valid passport
- proof of funds to support yourself at the start of your trip
- a return ticket - or enough money to buy one
- travel or health insurance covering your stay.
Some countries may also require medical checks, police certificates or additional documentation depending on the length of your stay.
Is a working holiday worth it?
A working holiday can be a highly rewarding way to gain experience while exploring a new country - but like any major decision, it comes with challenges to consider.
Before you commit, it helps to weigh up the key benefits and challenges.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Build independence and confidence. | Requires planning and flexibility. |
| Earn money while travelling. | Upfront visa and travel costs. |
| Gain international work experience. | Work can be temporary or less secure. |
Despite the practical and financial considerations, many people find that the personal and professional benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
If you're adaptable and open to new experiences, a working holiday can give you:
- memorable experiences
- valuable skills
- strong examples to draw on in job applications.
Find out more
- Discover gap year ideas.
- Explore our advice on teaching English overseas.
- Consider studying abroad for a structured international experience.