UNITED KINGDOM – UK and New Zealand Expand Work-Abroad Schemes

June 16, 2023


As a brief explanation, the Youth Mobility and Working Holiday schemes are visa options designed to facilitate young adults in experiencing life in a different country. These visa schemes aim to promote cultural exchange and enable participants to gain international work experience and broaden their skills. These visas offer the chance to live, work, and travel abroad for extended periods of time.

The UK has specified a list of nations whose citizens are eligible to apply for the Youth Mobility scheme. This list comprises countries with which the UK has reciprocal arrangements. Among the countries included in this exclusive list is New Zealand.

The Youth Mobility Scheme and Working Holiday visa between the UK and New Zealand have expanded, starting from 29 June, the age limit for New Zealand applicants seeking to work in the UK will rise from 30 to 35 years. Simultaneously, the maximum duration of stay in the host country will extend to three years.

See the table blow for a summary of the new changes.

 

Before Changes New Changes

(After June 29 and July 1, 2023)
Age limit: 18 to 30 years old Age limit: 18 to 35 years old
Maximum length of stay in the host country: 2 years Maximum length of stay in the host country: 3 years

 

Newland Chase Insights

This bilateral agreement presents a win-win scenario for both countries. The expansion will allow more young British and New Zealanders to explore opportunities and develop their skills and contribute to their host country.

If you have any compliance queries on the above or which are more nuanced please contact us directly on [email protected]. For general advice and information on immigration and business travel to the UK, please contact us.

This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.