New Zealand Working Holiday for Chileans (2026)

Age when applying

The Chilean scheme includes both age limits at application. Age is only one condition; also check your passport, funds, insurance and visa history.

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Passport and citizenship

This guide covers Chilean citizens applying with a Chilean passport. If you hold another passport or dual citizenship, check which scheme applies. Confirm the required passport validity before submitting.

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English for the visa

The Chile-specific instructions reviewed do not list a mandatory English test. This does not establish that your English is sufficient for every course or job; schools and employers may have their own requirements. Check the current instructions before paying for a test.

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Other requirements

Check health and character conditions, restrictions on accompanying children and any previous New Zealand Working Holiday grant. If applying inside the country, you must hold a valid temporary visa. A job offer is not required to apply, but a holiday must remain the main purpose of the trip.

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Annual quota

Chile's annual cap is 940. This is the program limit, not places remaining. The temporary expansion that ended in 2023 is not included, and this guide does not show live availability.

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Announced 2026 date

This is INZ's announced date for the 2026 cycle; it does not confirm that you can apply now. The announcement does not establish an opening hour or a confirmed 2027 date. Be ready before the announced date and confirm the official time and its Chilean equivalent. Submit when the portal accepts applications.

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Visa cost

The amount for a Chilean passport holder remains unconfirmed in this research. Check INZ's charge, levies and any applicable tax before paying.

How to prepare your application

1. Review the Chilean scheme and current instructions before choosing a date. Do not use another nationality’s requirements.
2. Prepare your passport, funds, insurance and any case-specific character or medical evidence. Check file and translation instructions.
3. Use INZ’s official service, check your details before submitting and confirm the charge shown by the system. We do not apply on your behalf.
4. Keep your application reference and check requests for more information. Wait for the written decision before making firm bookings.

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Length of stay

For an application made outside New Zealand, the instructions require first entry within 12 months of grant and allow a 12-month stay from arrival. Applications made while in New Zealand use a different starting point. Read your visa's dates before booking.

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Funds for your stay

The Chile-specific rule sets a NZD 4,200 minimum for maintenance. Also prepare a return ticket or money to buy one. Budget separately for the visa, insurance, flights and courses; the minimum does not guarantee that all your plans are covered.

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Insurance throughout your stay

The instructions require you to agree to maintain medical and comprehensive hospitalisation insurance throughout your stay. Compare coverage, exclusions, policy dates and terms.

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Work and the employer limit

The six-month limit applies to the same employer, not to six months of work in total. The scheme allows temporary work during the permitted stay; permanent employment is not permitted under this visa. Check your conditions before accepting a role.

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English or other study

The general conditions allow one or more study or training courses for up to six months in total. Compare English-course dates and length with your visa conditions. Study can help you prepare for interviews, but does not guarantee employment or visa approval.

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Arrival formalities and conditions

1. Check your eVisa

   Enter within 12 months of grant and check your eVisa conditions. The arrival deadline cannot be delayed.

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2. Complete the traveller declaration

   Complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration. Air travellers can submit it from 24 hours before starting their journey.

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3. Carry entry evidence

   Keep whole-stay medical and hospital insurance, funds and departure evidence available. A visa does not guarantee entry permission.

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4. Apply for your tax number

   The new-arrival IRD process uses myIR, passport, immigration application number and your latest overseas tax number, if any. Apply before the visa arrival deadline; a different process applies afterwards.

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