Working Holiday Authorisation
Young people from partner countries (e.g. Australia, Canada, Japan, NZ, Argentina) for a working holiday in Ireland.
The Working Holiday Authorisation is a Irish work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (Varies by country (often a small embassy fee)) and processing time (Varies by embassy and quota round), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Working Holiday Authorisation is for
Young people from partner countries (e.g. Australia, Canada, Japan, NZ, Argentina) for a working holiday in Ireland.
No direct pathway; switch to an employment permit to remain longer.
Working Holiday Authorisation - eligibility criteria
- National of a country with a reciprocal agreement
- Usually aged 18-30 (varies by country)
- Apply from outside Ireland within the annual quota
- Hold sufficient funds and return/onward travel means
- Have medical insurance for the stay
Working Holiday Authorisation cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Working Holiday Authorisation (Ireland) is Varies by country (often a small embassy fee), with an indicative processing time of Varies by embassy and quota round. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Irish Immigration Service.
| Type | Youth mobility |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Apply to the Irish embassy/consulate in your country (annual quota) |
| Length of stay | 12 months (24 months for some countries) |
| Work rights | Work to support a primarily holiday stay |
| Study rights | Short study/courses permitted |
| Government fee | Varies by country (often a small embassy fee) |
| Processing time | Varies by embassy and quota round |
| Route to PR | No direct pathway; switch to an employment permit to remain longer. |
Pathway & next steps
No direct pathway; switch to an employment permit to remain longer.
Many applicants also compare GEP · General Employment Permit, CSEP · Critical Skills Employment Permit, C Visa · Short Stay 'C' Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Irish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Working Holiday Authorisation pitfalls we fix
Working Holiday Authorisation - frequently asked questions
How much does the Working Holiday Authorisation cost?
The Working Holiday Authorisation government fee is Varies by country (often a small embassy fee). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Irish Immigration Service before applying.
How long does the Working Holiday Authorisation take to process?
Indicative processing time is Varies by embassy and quota round. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Working Holiday Authorisation lead to permanent residence?
No direct pathway; switch to an employment permit to remain longer.
Can I work on the Working Holiday Authorisation?
Work rights: Work to support a primarily holiday stay.
Who can apply for the Working Holiday Authorisation?
Young people from partner countries (e.g. Australia, Canada, Japan, NZ, Argentina) for a working holiday in Ireland.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Ireland government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Irish Immigration Service - official Ireland immigration authority