UK NZ working holiday scheme upgraded

Te Whanganui-a-Tara - The new three year NZ UK working holiday visas (WHV) will now be delivered earlier than expected, coming into force by July this year in time to support businesses through the global labour shortages, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins says.

The improved WHV, successfully negotiated alongside the NZ UK Free trade agreement last year, will give more UK travellers open work rights in New Zealand for longer.

“Securing an implementation date for this new scheme sooner than expected means those who are already in country will now be eligible to remain here longer, adding to the pool of labour available to businesses,” Hipkins said.

“The 4200 visa holders from the UK currently in New Zealand will now be able to extend their right to remain and work here for at least a year longer.

“The new conditions will also see the age of eligibility increase from 30 to 35 years, which will see greater numbers now eligible for the scheme, all of whom have open work rights here now for up to three years under the changes.

The new conditions of the scheme are reciprocal, meaning New Zealanders will have the same rights within the UK.

“I can say from personal experience a little while ago, that for many Kiwis the ‘OE’ is an invaluable opportunity to head away for a little adventure, gain some broader work experience and build on skills which can then be brought back to New Zealand,” Hipkins said.

“The changes to the scheme reflect the depth of our relationship with the United Kingdom.

“They are one of our closest partners, and we share a long standing relationship based on shared history, strong people to people links, and common values and interests.

“The improvements to this scheme are testament to this; it is great to provide young people in both our countries with more opportunities to work and live alongside one another,” Hipkins said.

The UK will move to its enhanced scheme from June 29 and New Zealand’s will come into force from July 1.

Currently, the UK WHS scheme allows young people of the UK aged between 18-30 to travel to and stay in New Zealand for up to 23 months, and work for up to 12 months.

British nationals seeking to stay in New Zealand for 24 months or longer will need to supply character and health certificates.