United Kingdom working holiday visa for New Zealand citizens

Youth Mobility Scheme visa · verified against official sources, 13 July 2026

The short answer

New Zealand citizens aged 18–35 can get the Youth Mobility Scheme visa and live and work in United Kingdom for up to 36 months. It costs about ~£340 + £776/yr health surcharge. Places: Uncapped for NZ. Age is counted when you apply, not when you travel.

Age window

18–35

Duration

36 months

Cost

~£340 + £776/yr health surcharge

Quota

Uncapped for NZ

The conditions that matter

Aged 18–35; £2,530 savings held 28 days
Full 3 years granted up front (since Jun 2023)

Apply on the official site Check all your options Packaged working holidays in United Kingdom

Guidance only — youth-mobility rules, ages, quotas and fees change. Always confirm on the official government page before you book flights or apply.

Other countries open to New Zealand passports

Ireland — ages 18–30, up to 12 months Canada — ages 18–35, up to 23 months Japan — ages 18–30, up to 12 months South Korea — ages 18–30, up to 12 months Hong Kong — ages 18–30, up to 12 months Singapore — ages 18–30, up to 12 months

United Kingdom rules for other passports

Australia Canada Taiwan