What are working holidays?
In today's globalised world, young people are travelling more extensively than ever. Working holidays present a superb opportunity to visit a destination for longer periods of time, allowing travellers to become well acquainted with foreign places and cultures.
What are working holidays?
Everyone knows that you can't get to know a foreign culture by spending a two-week holiday at a resort. However, few people can afford to simply travel around the globe for months or even years.
But what if you could visit a foreign country and earn money as you go along? You can do precisely that with a working holiday. Many countries have working holiday programmes that allow young people from all over the world to travel and work in the country for a limited span of time. This grants travellers the opportunity to not only visit, but also to really become familiar with the language, culture, and people in the areas they visit.
What you should know about working holidays
In order to take part in a working holiday, you must generally apply for a working holiday visa. Each country has different criteria and eligibility requirements, but information is easy to access thanks to the internet.
Generally, working holidays are reserved for young people
- between 18 and 30 or 35 years of age
- who are not accompanied by dependent children.
Applicants usually must provide health certificates and prove that they meet certain character requirements (such as no serious criminal record). Working holiday durations can vary, with some countries offering as little as three months or, as in the case of New Zealand, up to 23 months. Certain employment restrictions apply.
In Australia, for example, working holiday makers can take up any kind of employment, but may not work for a single employer for longer than six months per visa. Although you can work while you travel, most countries require that you verify a minimum amount of funds available to cover your expenses and your return ticket home.
More detailed information of working holiday programmes can usually be found at the respective country's immigration website. No matter where in the world you choose to go, working holidays are the perfect opportunity for youth to explore the world.
If you plan to spend a working holiday in Australia or working holidays in New Zealand, this website is full of information for you. And if you are looking for the perfect start of your working holidays, be sure to check out the working holidays starter packages!
