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Working holiday authorisations

Working Holiday Authorisations (WHA) are available to young people who are citizens of Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan and New Zealand.

These Working Holiday schemes are intended for use by young adults who wish to stay in Ireland for an extended holiday and who may work casually in order to fund their stay. 

Australian and New Zealand citizens (only) who are currently in the UK can apply through the Irish Visa Office in London.

All applications must be submitted in person at Embassy of Ireland, Ground Floor, 114a Cromwell Road, London, SW7 4ES. Applications will not be accepted by post.

How do I apply for a Working Holiday Authorisation?

If you are an Australian or New Zealand citizen resident in the UK, complete the application form (Australian/New Zealand) and submit to the Visa Office, Embassy of Ireland with the following supporting documents:

  • Current valid passport and 1 photocopies of the bio data page and UK visa
  • 2 current passport-style photographs with your name on reverse
  • Current Curriculum Vitae (with references)
  • Originals of any qualifications you may have obtained and 1 photocopy
  • Where applicable, letter from school/college
  • 1 photocopy of bank statement showing that you have AUS$2,500/NZ$2,500 and a return ticket or AUS$5,000/NZ$5,000 (or equivalent)

The processing fee of £51 is payable by Credit/Debit card at the Embassy when submitting your application. Please note that when you are applying through London, no fee should be paid to Canberra or Wellington.

Please note that applications are accepted by the Visa Office in London, but all processing takes place in Canberra (Australian Citizens) and Wellington (New Zealand Citizens). Any queries relating to the processing of applications should be directed to those offices. The processing of such applications may take up to 4-6 weeks and there is no expedited option available through London.

General information on Working Holiday Visas can be found on the Department of Foreign Affairs website.

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