There are 5000 places available annually under this scheme to young citizens of France for a stay of 12 months.
The scheme runs from 1 March each year.
Online application service no longer available
Applications can no longer be made online for this scheme. All applications must be sent to the Immigration New Zealand receiving office in Paris for manual processing.
Before you apply, please read the following important information.
To be eligible
You must:
- have a French passport that is valid for at least three months after your planned departure from New Zealand
- be at least 18 and not more than 30 years old
- not bring children with you
- hold a return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase such a ticket*
- have a minimum of NZ$4,200 available funds to meet your living costs while you’re here
- meet our health and character requirements
- hold medical and comprehensive hospitalisation insurance for the length of your stay
- be coming to New Zealand to holiday, with work being a secondary intention for your visit
- not have been approved a visa or permit under a Working Holiday Scheme before.
*You are required to hold sufficient funds for the duration of your visit and for the purchase of an outward ticket from New Zealand. Such evidence may be requested on arrival at the border.
Health Requirements
You will need to meet our health requirements for a temporary stay in New Zealand.
Character requirements
You will need to meet our character requirements for temporary entry to New Zealand.
When you’re here
- you must not take up permanent employment (unless you apply for and are granted an ordinary Work Permit while you’re here)
- you can enrol in one training or study course of up to three months duration during your visit.
Please note: New Zealand law prohibits any person on a temporary permit, including a Working Holiday Scheme work permit, from providing commercial sexual services, or operating or investing in a business which provides such services.
Tax
Like all New Zealand workers, you will need an IRD number so that your employer can deduct tax from your earnings at the correct rate. In New Zealand, you pay tax on a pay as you earn (PAYE) basis. This means that there should not be a large refund or an amount to pay when you leave. For more information see Inland Revenue's Travelling to New Zealand webpage [external link].
How do I apply?
Follow the steps to apply for a Working Holiday Scheme Work Visa or Permit.