Working Holiday Visa
Young people from partner countries combining travel with casual work for a year.
The Working Holiday Visa is a German visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€75 (free for some nationalities)) and processing time (~2-6 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Working Holiday Visa is for
Young people from partner countries combining travel with casual work for a year.
No direct path; must switch to a work or study permit.
Working Holiday Visa - eligibility criteria
- Aged 18-30 (varies by agreement)
- National of a partner country (e.g. Australia, Canada, Japan, NZ)
- Proof of funds for the start of the stay
- Health insurance for the whole period
- Return travel funds or ticket
Working Holiday Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Working Holiday Visa (Germany) is ~€75 (free for some nationalities), with an indicative processing time of ~2-6 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a German consulate abroad (or on arrival for some nationalities) |
| Length of stay | Up to 12 months |
| Work rights | Casual/incidental work to fund travel |
| Study rights | Short courses permitted |
| Government fee | ~€75 (free for some nationalities) |
| Processing time | ~2-6 weeks |
| Route to PR | No direct path; must switch to a work or study permit. |
Pathway & next steps
No direct path; must switch to a work or study permit.
Many applicants also compare Au Pair · Au Pair Visa, Schengen C · Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C), Job Seeker · Job Seeker Visa for Qualified Professionals. Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Working Holiday Visa pitfalls we fix
Working Holiday Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Working Holiday Visa cost?
The Working Holiday Visa government fee is ~€75 (free for some nationalities). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the Working Holiday Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-6 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Working Holiday Visa lead to permanent residence?
No direct path; must switch to a work or study permit.
Can I work on the Working Holiday Visa?
Work rights: Casual/incidental work to fund travel.
Who can apply for the Working Holiday Visa?
Young people from partner countries combining travel with casual work for a year.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority