Work and holiday visas for Mexicans: Complete guide
Did you know several countries offer the Work and Holiday visa for Mexicans? Here are five destinations where you can enjoy this unforgettable experience.
For many young Mexicans, the idea of living abroad isn’t just a dream but a clear goal. The Work and Holiday visa for Mexicans opens that door: A special permit that lets you work and travel in a country for several months (usually up to one year).
The greatest advantage of this visa type is that it allows you to fund your stay through temporary jobs, gain international work experience, improve another language, and enjoy the local culture while travelling without a fixed schedule. It’s the ideal opportunity for those who want to travel without spending all their savings, meet people from different countries, and develop skills that strengthen their CV.
Are you from Mexico and wondering which countries offer this opportunity? You’re in luck, because today we’ll explain which countries currently grant a Work and Holiday visa to Mexican citizens, along with essential information so you can start planning your adventure.

1 – New Zealand
The Working Holiday visa for Mexicans in New Zealand ranks among the most popular for those dreaming of combining work and adventure in a spectacular natural destination. This visa lets you stay in the country for up to 12 months, with the freedom to work and travel at your own pace.
Among its main benefits is the chance to finance your stay through temporary jobs in agriculture, hospitality, or tourism. Moreover, you can study for up to six months, an excellent opportunity to improve your English or learn new skills while enjoying the experience.
Another highlight is that the visa grants multiple entries and exits throughout its validity, making it easier to explore other Oceanian countries and return to New Zealand without hassle. Add to that the privilege of living among unique landscapes, a welcoming culture, and a lifestyle blending calm with adventure.
This article on the New Zealand Working Holiday Visa for Mexicans explains more details, but here’s a list of the basic requirements to apply:
- Be aged 18 to 30 at the time of application.
- Hold a valid Mexican passport.
- Show minimum funds of $2,720 (€2,490) to cover initial expenses.
- Purchase valid medical insurance for the entire stay.
- Haven’t previously obtained this visa.
Keep in mind that each year, New Zealand opens only 200 places for Mexicans, assigned on a first-come, first-served basis through the official Immigration New Zealand portal. Spots fill within minutes, so stay alert to avoid missing out. Make sure to create your official account early and have all your details ready. On the opening day, connect a few minutes before and refresh the page exactly at the announced time to improve your chances.

2 – Countries offering the Work and Holiday visa for Mexico: Canada
Canada gives Mexicans the chance to live and work temporarily through the International Experience Canada (IEC) programme, under the Working Holiday category. This permit allows you to stay in the country for up to 12 months, with flexibility to work across different sectors while travelling throughout Canada.
Among its main benefits is the ability to work legally without a prior job offer, which opens doors to temporary jobs in hospitality, tourism, agriculture, or services. Moreover, Canada offers a multicultural environment, vibrant cities, and breathtaking nature, making it ideal for both professional growth and personal adventure. In short, living in Canada brings many benefits you’ll enjoy with your Work and Holiday visa for Mexico.
What requirements must you meet to apply? In short, they’re as follows:
- Be aged 18 to 29 at the time of application.
- Hold a valid Mexican passport.
- Show minimum funds of $1,960 (€1,813) to cover initial expenses.
- Have valid health insurance for the entire stay.
- Haven’t previously joined Canada’s Working Holiday category.
Mexico has 6,500 annual spots in the Working Holiday category, managed through an “invitation round” system. If you’re interested, first create a profile on the official IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) portal and wait for a selection invitation.
To increase your chances of getting the visa, join at the start of the registration season. Invitations occur periodically, and having your profile ready early increases your likelihood of being selected.

3 – France
France is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for Mexicans seeking a Work and Holiday experience. This programme allows you to stay up to 12 months, working and travelling freely across France and even within the Schengen area.
One of its greatest advantages is the variety of job opportunities, from hospitality and tourism to temporary work during harvests, fairs, and cultural events. Moreover, France is perfect for those who want to learn or improve their French while living fully immersed in one of the world’s most influential cultures.
To apply for the Working Holiday visa, you’ll need to:
- Be aged 18 to 30 at the time of application.
- Hold a valid Mexican passport.
- Show minimum funds of $2,900 (€2,500) to cover initial expenses.
- Provide medical insurance covering your entire stay.
- Haven’t previously obtained the France Work and Holiday visa.
France offers 300 annual spots for Mexicans in this category. The application process is carried out in person at the Consulate General of France in Mexico, where you must present all required documents and pay the related fee.
Our advice: Book your consulate appointment several months in advance, as demand is high and slots fill quickly, especially before the European summer.

4 – Work and Holiday Visa for Mexico: Germany
Germany is another great option for young Mexicans who want to enjoy a Work and Holiday visa without worrying about limited quotas, since this agreement has no annual cap on places. This means you can apply anytime during the year as long as you meet the requirements.
The visa lets you stay in the country for up to 12 months, working in temporary jobs to fund your stay and travelling freely across Germany and the rest of the Schengen area. Besides its strong economy and high quality of life, the country offers endless cultural experiences, from Oktoberfest to Christmas markets and historic routes.
The basic requirements for Mexicans applying for the German Work and Holiday visa are as follows:
- Be aged 18 to 30 at the time of application.
- Hold a valid Mexican passport.
- Show minimum funds of $2,320 (€2,000) to cover initial expenses
- Provide valid medical insurance covering your entire stay.
- Haven’t previously joined this German programme.
The application must be made directly at the German Embassy in Mexico or the corresponding consulate, by submitting the required documentation and paying the related fee. Take advantage of the flexible dates to plan your arrival outside the European summer high season. That’ll make it easier to find accommodation and work.

5 – South Korea
Finally, South Korea is another country offering a Work and Holiday visa for Mexico. It has become a highly attractive destination for those seeking a different cultural experience, blending ancient traditions, cutting-edge technology, and a safe environment. With this visa, you can stay in the country for up to 12 months, working in temporary jobs and travelling across South Korea.
One of its greatest advantages is the opportunity to immerse yourself in Korean culture: learn the language, enjoy its cuisine, join festivals, and visit iconic spots such as Seoul, Busan, or Jeju Island. Moreover, South Korea is an excellent starting point for exploring other Asian countries during your stay.
As for requirements, they’re not much different from the previous ones:
- Be aged 18 to 30 at the time of application.
- Hold a valid Mexican passport.
- Show minimum funds of $2,520 (€2,300) for initial expenses.
- Provide valid health insurance for the entire stay.
- Haven’t previously obtained this visa for South Korea.
Take note: Mexico has 200 annual spots for the Work and Holiday visa, so prepare your application early, as demand is high and places fill quickly. The application is made in person at the Embassy of South Korea in Mexico, submitting the required documents and paying the consular fee. A useful tip is to include a clear, well-written motivation letter, since it can make the difference when being selected.

Enjoy your Work and Holiday visa for Mexico
The Work and Holiday visa is much more than a migration process: It’s a chance to live unique experiences, grow professionally, and meet people from around the world. Whether you’re exploring New Zealand’s natural landscapes, enjoying Canada’s multiculturalism, savouring France’s cuisine and culture, discovering Germany’s history and modernity, or diving into South Korea’s vibrant life, every destination offers its own charm and opportunities.
The key to success lies in preparing early, organising all documents correctly, and tracking each programme’s opening dates. With proper planning, your Work and Holiday experience won’t just be possible — it’ll be unforgettable.
Connectivity when travelling with a Work and Holiday visa for Mexico
Whether you travel to New Zealand, Canada, France, Germany, or South Korea, having a practical way to stay connected during your Work and Holiday adventure is essential. You’ll need maps to get around, video calls to stay in touch with family, stream your favourite series at night, and use local apps. That’s why choosing a monthly plan from Holafly is the smartest move.
Holafly Plans is a service designed for frequent travellers, whether for work, study, or leisure. With your Work and Holiday visa for Mexico, you’ll spend 12 months abroad, so subscribing for a year gives you internet everywhere, avoiding Wi-Fi dependence or the hassle of buying a SIM card at the airport. You’ll also enjoy a generous discount on your monthly fee. The plan renews automatically each month, so you won’t worry about a thing — simple, clear, and without hidden costs.
Holafly Plans will be your best companion during your Work and Holiday adventure.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 160 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍

Work and Holiday visa for Mexico: Frequently asked questions
At present, Mexico has active agreements with several countries, including New Zealand, Canada, France, Germany, and South Korea.
Yes, you can apply to different countries if you meet each one’s requirements. However, each Work and Holiday visa is independent and can’t be transferred between countries.
In most countries, it can only be obtained once in a lifetime. Some exceptions, like New Zealand, offer extensions under specific conditions, though this isn’t common.
In most cases, yes — but with time limits. For instance, New Zealand allows study for up to six months, and Australia (for countries with agreements, not including Mexico) allows up to four months. Always check each country’s specific conditions.
Yes. All countries offering this visa to Mexicans require proof of sufficient funds for initial expenses. The amount varies by destination, usually from $2,320–1,960 (€2,000–1,813).
No. The goal of the Work and Holiday visa is to let you find a job after arrival. However, researching the job market beforehand helps improve your chances.