Visiting a country and exploring new cultures is a dream many people harbour, but there’s always one obstacle pulling back hopes and dreams: money.
Travelling to another country comes with a hefty price tag, including flight tickets, accommodations, transportation and so on.
But for young people who are not afraid to embark on new experiences, applying for a Working Holiday Visa - a work pass that allows young people to travel and work in another country for a set period, typically to fund their travels - can be your ticket to broaden your horizons!
Is the Working Holiday Visa for everyone?
Everyone dreams of travelling overseas, but it’s a whole other experience when you are visiting on a working holiday visa.
A Working Holiday Visa often has age restrictions (18- 30 years old), which vary according to countries. Applicants must also have valid passports for the duration of their stays and proof of funds to ensure applicants can support themselves.
There are also other factors to consider before making such a decision; for instance, you may need to put your career on hold, as a Working Holiday Visa typically requires applicants to work for at least 3 weeks to 12 months. There is an annual quota for the Working Holiday Visa, so be sure to check availability before applying.
Furthermore, most visas stipulate that applicants are not to bring any dependents. Therefore, it will be rather difficult to apply if you must attend to other commitments at home. However, if nothing else is stopping you, this can be a terrific opportunity for young explorers before officially entering the workforce.
As a reliable safety net, we advise that prospective applicants save at least S$4,500 to strengthen their application.
Countries that offer Working Holiday Visa for Singaporeans
Currently, only two countries officially offer Working Holiday Visas to Singaporeans: New Zealand and Australia.
1. New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the most popular work travel destinations for Singaporeans. Many have gone there to work on farms, in restaurants and in other temporary jobs in exchange for accommodation and allowances.
These jobs can be sourced through platforms such as Workaway, Global Work And Travel, or even local Facebook groups.
If you're feeling even more adventurous, there's nothing stopping you from going there directly and walking in to ask for a job.
Eligibility
Visa required: Singapore Work Exchange Programme Visa
Age range: 18 to 30 years old
Length of stay: Up to 12 months
Application cost: From NZD $770
Travel costs
Flight tickets: From S$262
2. Australia
Australia offers a stunning panorama of natural landscapes and vibrant city life, complemented by the warmth and friendliness of its people across the continent.
Before applying for a Working Holiday Visa there, make sure that the status of country caps is still open for Singapore. You can check the status here.
Eligibility
Visa required: Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
Age range: 18 to 30 years old
Length of stay: Up to 12 months
Application cost: AUD650
Travel costs
Flight tickets: From S$723
Other alternatives
WWOOF Japan
Although Singapore is not one of the countries eligible for Japan’s working holiday programme, there are other ways for you to achieve your working holiday dream at the birthplace of anime.
WWOOF Japan (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) partners with organic farmers and sustainable living projects, allowing solo travellers to earn free accommodation and meals through volunteering. However, hosts do not provide income to volunteers, so it is encouraged to have some savings before proceeding with this option.
There are also other visas to consider if you wish to work while travelling in Japan. Take a look at our previous article about Japan’s Visa Pass!
Workaway
If you're not one who shies away from working with strangers, this may be another option for you to experience diverse cultures overseas.
Workaway is a global platform that allows solo travellers and backpackers to travel affordably by volunteering in exchange for accommodation and meals. It is the most efficient way to fully immerse oneself in the country’s culture, as volunteers get to interact with the people there every day for at least two weeks.
The platform is a great place to connect with hosts from all around the world, with placements available in over 170 countries. They can also guide you through the application process, so you would not feel lost along the way.
Adventure is out there
A working holiday is possible for anyone; just be sure to read the fine print and proceed with caution. Despite its reputation for being affordable, a working holiday still requires you to cover certain expenses, such as flight tickets and leisure activities.
But the dream is real and it can happen for you! Just remember to plan your trip carefully and research the visa requirements thoroughly.
