New Zealand Working Holiday Visa Opening Dates & Quotas 2026
- iclegalnz
- Feb 19
- 2 min read
If you are planning to apply for a Working Holiday Visa New Zealand (WHS) in 2026, timing is everything. Each country has a fixed annual quota, and applications are approved strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. Once places are filled, the scheme closes immediately.
All quotas and opening dates for Working Holiday Visa New Zealand are managed by Immigration New Zealand, and there are no extensions once limits are reached.
We outline the exact dates, places, and what you must do to secure your spot without delays.
How the 2026 Quota System Works
Every country receives a set number of places
Applications open on a scheduled date
Submissions are processed in order received
When the quota is reached, applications stop instantly
The scheme reopens the following year only
If any 2025 places remain, they stay open until filled, then reset with a new 2026 allocation.
Conclusion: apply as soon as the scheme opens.
Confirmed New Zealand Working Holiday Visa (WHS) 2026 Opening Dates & Places
Below are the major schemes with high demand and known allocations.
United Kingdom: 15,000 Places
Opening date: 25 June 2026
Largest quota
Typically remains open longer due to volume
Still advisable to apply within the first days
South Korea: 3,000 Places
Opening date: 14 May 2026
Historically fills within days or weeks
Spain: 2,000 Places
Opening date: 9 April 2026
Moderate demand, closes quickly during peak periods
China: 1,000 Places
Opening date: 2 July 2026
Very competitive
Often fills within hours
Small-Quota Countries (50–100 places)
Extremely limited availability
Frequently filled within minutes
Same-day preparation required
Immigration New Zealand has published the full 2026 list: countries, opening dates, and available places. Check now!
New Zealand Working Holiday Visa in brief
1. Who Can Apply for Working Holiday Visa
You must:
Meet the age limit (usually 18–30 or 18–35 depending on country)
Hold a valid passport
Show sufficient funds
Meet health and character requirements
Apply under your own country’s scheme only
If you do not meet these criteria at the time of submission, your application may fail and you may lose your place.Read more: Who Can Apply for a Working Holiday Visa New Zealand?
2. Documents to Prepare Before Opening Day
Have everything ready in advance to avoid delays:
Passport scan
Digital photo
Proof of funds
Travel insurance
Payment card
Online account created
Do not wait until the opening day to collect documents.
3. Simple Application Strategy That Works
1. Prepare early
Create your online profile and complete the form in advance.
2. Upload documents
Save files correctly and check sizes.
3. Log in early
Be online 15–20 minutes before the opening time.
4. Submit immediately
Apply the moment the system opens.
Even a delay of a few minutes can mean missing the quota.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying late
Incorrect passport details
Payment failure
Missing documents
Slow internet or mobile device issues
These problems often cause applicants to lose their chance.
5. Quick Action Checklist
1 month before: Check eligibility, gather documents
1 week before: Complete the form and upload files
1 day before: Test login and payment method
Opening time: Submit immediately
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