Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL
What does International Working Holidays (IWH) do?
We help travellers live and work overseas with less stress and more support. Whether it’s a working holiday, volunteering abroad, or getting a visa sorted, we make the whole process easier.
Is International Working Holidays just for Kiwis?
Nope! While we started in New Zealand, we now help people from Australia and Bali join our working holiday programs, and support travellers from Australia, the UK, USA, and Europe with ethical volunteering opportunities.
Can I book and pay for a project using internet banking?
Yes you can – our account number is ANZ 060 287 0495361 25 – use your name as a reference.
Will I need a visa to participate in the projects?
If you hold a NZ Passport, yes may need a visa – if you do we will provide you with supporting documentation to obtain your visa without hassle. Other nationalities should contact us to check if you do or not.
How old do I need to be to go on a working holiday or volunteer trip?
Most of our travellers are aged 18-35. Some volunteer programs don’t have a maximum age limit. We also have some cool options especially for those aged 40+.
Do I need travel insurance when joining a working holiday or volunteer program?
Yes. It’s compulsory for most programs, and it’s also a smart thing to have. We can recommend the best options for your destination.
Can I go overseas on my own?
Absolutely. Most of our travellers go solo – but they never feel alone. We support you before, during, and after your trip. Plus it’s a great way to meet like minded adventurers!
How much does it cost to do a working holiday or volunteer program?
Each program is different. Prices depend on the destination, what’s included, and the level of support. Feel free to reach out to us on wa.me/64272080204 or go to the page you’re most interested in to see the costs and inclusions.
Do you help with flights and visas for working holiday or volunteer program?
Yes. We help with visa applications and can book flights through our IWH travel partner.
Can I talk to someone before I apply for a working holiday or volunteer program?
Of course. Book a free planning call with our team on wa.me/64272080204
What if I change my mind?
If you’re unsure, talk to us first. Some deposits are non-refundable but we can often transfer you to a different program.
VOLUNTEERING
Why do volunteers need to pay to join a project?
International Working Holidays offers the best possible volunteer experience by offering you a great volunteer experience in some of the more unspoiled places of this world while having the convenience of arranging your airport pick up, transfer, accommodation and excursions arranged. We also have your safety as our first priority.
Furthermore during your volunteer abroad experience you will have our ongoing in-country support for your own piece of mind and safety. This includes 24/7 emergency support in the country you are travelling to.
How is the money from volunteer fees used?
Most of our volunteer project costs cover all the arrangements on location in the destination of your choice. In most cases meals, accommodation, airport pickups, in-country transfers (by boats, horses, 4×4, buses, helicopters and light aircrafts etc), community donations, guides, safety measures, in-country coordinators, 24/7 emergency service, excursions and orientations are included. The project uses the monies paid to feed, look after, and house you as well as some to help fund the project.
The rest of the fee is spent on marketing, administrative support and of course a small profit to be able to sustain and grow the business.
Can I book as a volunteer without paying a deposit?
No. We need your deposit to secure your place. It shows us you are serious about it – we don’t want others to miss out in a spot someone has who then cancels later. We can hold a space for you for a volunteer project for 7 days with your Date Of Birth, Project name and length.
Can I join more than one volunteer project and do them back-to-back?
Yes. You can. Please contact us for specific pricing as it depends on the time of year and how many weeks in a month etc. That was we can transition you between projects seamlessly.
How far in advance should volunteers book their placement?
Our projects are very popular and in huge demand plus may only have a limited amount of accommodation for volunteers at a time – so some of the programs like the Veterinary Experience Clinic project are booked in advance 12-24 months. If you’re planning ahead please book well in advance. Feel free to give us a call should you wish to talk about your options and we’ll find something to suit you. It’s always best to check with us on availability for your favourite Project as sometimes we do have spots available sooner.
I am a vegetarian. As a volunteer, will I be required to prepare meat (such as cutting up dead animals) to feed the lions?
No – let us know that you don’t want to be involved in preparing the meat for the big cats and we’ll make a note on your booking. You won’t have to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. Most meat preparation is done by the staff.
What vaccinations do I need before joining a volunteer project?
Just Tetanus for all projects. The projects are in areas which do not have malaria carrying mosquitos. Our projects are in areas which are either deemed “low risk” or “extremely low risk”. Our Namibia Project recommend Rabies vaccination too. We have a handy vaccination guide though for your reference.
Are any of the volunteer projects you offer connected to canned hunting?
No – none of the projects we work with are involved in the canned hunting industry, we would never send volunteers to projects which we suspected any involvement as we do not agree with Canned Hunting. International Working Holidays & the Projects we send to, are members of Organisations Against Canned Hunting.
When is the best time of year for volunteers to go to Africa?
These projects are great all year round as they are adapted to suit the weather accordingly. Game Capture season usually happens in April / May which is fabulous to get involved in.
Where can I volunteer with animals abroad?
We have ethical wildlife programs in Africa, and Sri Lanka including rhino and lion conservation, wildlife sanctuaries, Sea Turtles, and veterinary experiences.
Can I volunteer without experience?
Yes. Most programs are designed for people with a passion to help, not qualifications.
Do I need vaccines to volunteer in Africa?
Tetanus is required. Some programs suggest Rabies. We’ll advise based on your destination.
Can I volunteer with kids or in community projects?
Yes! We offer childcare and teaching placements in safe and supported communities.
WORKING HOLIDAYS
What is a working holiday?
A working holiday lets you live in another country, earn money, and travel at the same time. It’s great for gaining life and work experience.
Which countries can I do a working holiday in?
We offer working holiday options in Canada, the UK, the USA, and Japan.
Do I need a visa for a working holiday overseas?
Yes. You need a working holiday visa for most destinations. We’ll help guide you through the process.
Can I choose my working holiday location?
In some programs you can pick your placement. In others, we help match you based on your skills and preferences.
Can I go on a working holiday with a friend or partner?
Yes! Just let us know during your application and we’ll do our best to place you together.
Is accommodation included in working holiday programs?
Some of our programs include accommodation (especially for the first job), others help you find it.
Can I extend my working holiday?
In some cases, yes. It depends on the country’s visa rules.
UK Working Holidays + Visa Help
Do I need a visa to work in the UK?
Yes. We help with the Youth Mobility visa or UK Ancestry visa.
Can you help me apply for a UK Working Holiday Visa?
Yes. Our visa service takes the stress out of the paperwork.
What’s the age limit for UK working holiday visas?
Usually 18-35, depending on the visa type.
How long can I work in the UK with a Working Holiday Visa?
Most visas let you stay up to 2 years.
Do you offer job support for UK working holidays?
We help with CV templates, job boards, and accommodation resources to make your move easier.
CANADA
Who is the Canada Working Holiday program for?
Young adults (18-35 year olds) wanting to experience Canada, gain work experience, and travel.
What are the age requirements for a Canada Working Holiday?
For the visa you need to be aged 18-35 years.
Do I need a visa to go to Canada on a Working Holiday?
Yes, you’ll need a Working Holiday visa to participate.
Where do I apply for a Canada Working Holiday visa?
You apply directly with the IRCC. We provide instructions and steps as part of the program. Or we have a visa only service to guide you through the process.
Is there a limit on the number of Canada Working Holiday visas issued?
Yes. There is a quota for each country each year. The pools open in December each year and close when the quote is used up, usually around October.
What support does IWH provide for the Canada program?
IWH provides assistance with pre-departure planning, arrival support, job finding assistance, and ongoing support during your time in Canada.
What’s included in the Canada Premium program?
The Premium program includes first season job (Summer or Winter) with accommodation, guidance through the visa process, pre departure support, arrival orientations, help getting set up for work in Canada, and full access and support from our Canada team while in-country.
What kinds of jobs are available in Canada?
You can find a variety of jobs in Canada, including hospitality, tourism, retail, and admin roles.
Will I have a job in Canada before I arrive on a working holiday?
The level of job support varies depending on the program you choose. Some programs offer pre-arranged jobs, while others provide assistance with finding a job after you arrive.
Does IWH help with accommodation in Canada?
Accommodation is part of the premium package for your first season of work (Summer or Winter), after your first season you normally have contacts for your next job and accommodation.
What are the seasons like in Canada?
Winter – November to April or Summer – May to September
When are applications open for the Canada Working Holiday?
Winter applications close in May (or March if you are doing AmeriCamp first). Summer applications close in February.
When do Canadian employers usually hire or interview?
For Winter they start interviews around June/July – September. For summer typically December/January – March.
Do I need insurance for the Canada Working Holiday?
Yes! You cannot enter Canada without insurance and they will only grant your visa for the length of your insurance. Dale at iwhtravel@iwh.co.nz can get a special 2 year policy for Canada that allows for snow sports. Talk to her about this when you book your flights.
Where will I be working during my Canada Working Holiday?
In a hotel, resort or company in tourism communities throughout Canada. Some of the resort communities in Western Canada that have hosted participants in the past are located within Banff, Jasper, Invermere, Lake Louise & Revelstoke. If you are interested in city placements, most opportunities will be within Vancouver.
Can I choose the type of work placement for my Canada Working Holiday?
You can tell us that you want to apply for a particular placement, however all placements have minimum requirements based on experience, education, the ability to undertake placement for a full season, personal grooming, additional languages spoken and general attitude. All candidates should expect to spend at least some time working in the house-keeping department even if you meet all the minimum requirements.
Please note: Minimum requirements are for entry level positions within that department, even if you meet all the minimum requirements this does not guarantee that you will receive a placement in that department.
How much money should I bring with me when starting my Canada Working Holiday in Canada?
You should always have access to “startup funds” during your first few weeks after you arrive. This is a regulation from Immigration as well since they don’t want you to end up in a bad situation and not be able to support yourself. This is also for your first weeks of accommodation, uniforms, mobile phone, etc, etc. before your first pay check. You should bring or have access to $2500.
What types of jobs are typical for a Canada Working Holiday?
Jobs in hospitality, tourism, retail, ski resorts, and summer lodges are most common.
When should I apply for a Canada Working Holiday?
Apply early! Pools open in December and fill quickly. Jobs for winter hire in June-August. Summer jobs start hiring from December.
Do I need a job before I arrive in Canada for a Working Holiday?
Our Premium program includes a pre-arranged seasonal job. Other programs help you find one after arrival.
How long can I stay in Canada on a working holiday visa?
Usually up to 24 months, depending on your passport.
What types of jobs are typical for a Japan Working Holiday?
- Japanese farms
- Working Holiday jobs at Ryokans, the traditional
- Japanese hotels at several cities and regions of Japan if you have basic Japanese language skills
- Ski resort jobs
- Working Holiday jobs on Sado Island (agriculture, fishing, tourism)
How do I find a job on a Japan Working Holiday?
Our team will guide you through the process, interviews and job acceptance.
Do I need to be fluent in Japanese for a Japan Working Holiday job?
No, it is an advantage to know at least some basics, as there will be more job options available in this case.
For some pre-arranged jobs (e.g. farmwork, ryokan and ski resort jobs) basic conversational language skills are required.
Will I work part time or full time on a Japan Working Holiday?
You can decide what you prefer. There are no legal restrictions about how many hours you are allowed work or how much you can earn.
How much can I earn through a Japan Working Holiday job?
In Tokyo you typically make between 1000-1500 Yen (8.30-12.40 EUR/13.30-20 AUD/12.50-18.70 CAD/7.30-11 GBP) per hour. However, from this amount an income tax of 20.42% is usually immediately deducted. If you work 28 hours per week (part time) this means after taxation you will have around 95,000 to 130,000 Yen per month (around 785-1080 EUR/1260-1730 AUD/1180-1620 CAD/700-950 GBP). If you work 40 hours per week (full time) it is around 130,000-200,000 Yen per month (1080-1650 EUR/1730-2660 AUD/1620-2500 CAD/950-1460 GBP).
For the farmwork and ryokan jobs that we arrange in smaller cities, the salary is around 20% below this range, but also the living expenses are correspondingly lower there compared to Tokyo. In addition, in case of farm work/ryokan job, accommodation and meals are often subsidized by the employer and price-wise well below local averages.
How long does the Japan Working Holiday visa application take?
The processing time of the visa is typically around 2 weeks. Please check with the Japanese Embassy/consulate and ask for current processing times.
To make sure everything works out time-wise, from today you should allow a lead time of at least 4 weeks until the date of your flight.
What accommodation options are available in Japan for Working Holiday participants?
There is a partner owned and operated share house at a central location in Tokyo. Plus we cooperate with other share houses. At the share house you will share kitchen, communal areas, and sanitary installations with other participants of our programs. You can choose between single, twin and dorm room. At our partner share houses there are also young Japanese professionals staying.
Alternatively, we can also book you into a host family.
Is a share house in Japan similar to a hostel or guest house?
No, it is rather comparable to an apartment shared by several people.
There are houserules, including regulations about cleanliness and noise. They can charge you for damage and your contract will be terminated if you break the rules.
There are staff who clean the communal areas such as kitchens, living rooms, sanitary installations, and corridors.
How long is the Japan Working Holiday visa valid for?
Up to 12 months.
What is the UniGap program for the USA?
It’s a 12-month work and travel program for recent graduates. We help you get a J1 visa, pre-arranged job, housing, and ongoing support.
Do I need a job before going on UniGap USA?
We provide pre-arranged jobs with top US employers or you can source your own if preferred.
Can I get financial help to join the UniGap USA program?
Yes! Some employers offer financial assistance. You pay it off in your first few months of work.
Can I work in the USA without a job lined up?
You can, but it’s better to have a plan. We support both options.
Is UniGap only for New Zealanders?
Nope. Aussies are welcome too.
Will I have insurance once I arrive in the US for the UniGap program?
Yes, you will have insurance under CIEE : https://www.ciee.org/in-the-usa/insurance
How do I get my UniGap visa, and will you assist me with the process?
Yes, we will be assisting you. We will send you your Beacon account link, which you will need to complete with all the required information and documents, along with the necessary fee payment. Once that is done, we will submit your Beacon account for approval. After your account is approved and the DS-2019 is issued, we will send you step-by-step instructions for the visa processing.
How long does it take for my UniGap sponsorship Beacon application to be approved?
It usually takes around 10 working days.
If I look for my own job with UniGap, do I need to secure one before arriving in the US?
No, but we do recommend that you already have your prospects and are doing interviews. This will help lessen the pressure once you reach the US.
How do I open a bank account in the US, and what type of SIM card can I use there?
For bank account – We recommend you open a WISE account and get a Visa card, this can be used as a travel account and you can get employers to pay you into this account ☺️
https://bit.ly/WisecardIWHCAMP
For eSim- We found the best way is to get an E-Sim (not an actual SIM but it’s an online SIM). You can get US$3 off your first eSIM data pack from Airalo just use the discount code VICKI2202 when you sign up, or apply it at checkout. https://ref.airalo.com/EBJ7
LOGISTICS and SUPPORT
What happens if I get sick while on a volunteer program or working holiday?
You’ll have access to 24/7 emergency support and we can help with insurance claims.
Do you help with airport pickups and arrival support if I join a volunteer program or working holiday?
Yes. Most programs include this, especially the Premium ones.
Can I talk to past volunteer programs or working holiday participants?
Yes. We have videos and stories from past travellers who’ve done the programs.
Can I fundraise or get help paying for my volunteer program or working holiday?
Yes. Some participants use Givealittle, savings, or employer financial aid options.
How do I book a call or ask more questions on a volunteer program or working holiday offered?
Easy. Just go to iwh.co.nz and click the “Let’s Chat” button.
EB3 PATHWAY TO GREENCARD VISA
How long does the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa process take?
Typically 12-24 months, depending on government processing times.
Do I need to pay upfront for the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa?
No there is no charge to start your discovery application
Once we know you’re eligible the application fee of $6000USD is due (if you decide to hot the Go Button)
Once the visa is ready to be approved you pay the balance of $20,000USD and payment plans are available since the timeline for NZ/Aus passports is 18-24 months
Can my family come with me on the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa?
Yes! Your spouse and children under 21 can also receive Green Cards.
What kind of jobs are available under the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa?
Roles vary but include positions in hospitality, food service, etc – providing a stable path to U.S. residency.
Can you organise an EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa with my own employer?
Yes we can discuss sponsorship with an employer you have already found as an additional service.
Can I travel to the USA on a J1 or ESTA once the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa application starts?
It depends on where we are in the process with filing with the DOL.
If it is after the DS is issued or during your J1 program, it’s best not do so to not impact the non-immigrant intent.
Do I pay the $6000 after it’s determined I am eligible for the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa?
Yes the $6000 application fee is only payable once we and our visa partner in USA confirms your eligibility
After applying, if I decide for whatever reason this is not the path I want, is the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa fee of $6k non-refundable?
No, please be sure this is what you want before applying.
At what stage does the US Consulate interview happen for the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa?
After our visa partners file with USCIS.
Must the Consulate interview for the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa happen in my home country?
No. Anywhere outside USA is fine
After the visa is issued under the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa, do I get the green card immediately?
The EB3 visa grants permanent residency (a green card) at the same time
After the visa is issued under the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa, how long do I have to enter the USA?
As soon as the visa is issued.
Are there any restrictions on the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa regarding how long I can leave the USA for at any one time?
To maintain Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status in the United States, they must not remain outside the country for more than one year without prior approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Can I find my own job and sponsor under the EB3 Pathway to Greencard Visa?
We typically work with our trusted network of employers to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements for EB3 visa sponsorship. However, we’re open to considering outside employers.
It’s important to note that an employer cannot immediately become your sponsor or start the process on their own. If your employer is interested in sponsorship, we can connect them with our Director of Business Development, who will guide them through our vetting process. This includes assessing financials, business operations, tax compliance, and the ability to sponsor at least 25 employees.
Once approved by our Sales Development team, they can begin working our team that assists employers in navigating the EB3 sponsorship process with the Department of Labor.
If you have an employer in mind, let us know—we’re happy to explore the possibility! 🚀