Ireland has working holiday agreements with a number of countries, allowing young Irish citizens to live and work abroad for up to one or two years. These programmes are hugely popular — particularly Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Almost all require notarised documents as part of the application.
Countries with Working Holiday Agreements
Ireland currently has working holiday agreements with:
- Australia: Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) — age 18–35, up to 3 years
- Canada: International Experience Canada (IEC) — age 18–35, up to 2 years
- New Zealand: Working Holiday Visa — age 18–30, up to 23 months
- Japan: Working Holiday Visa — age 18–30, up to 1 year
- South Korea: Working Holiday Visa — age 18–30, up to 1 year
- Hong Kong: Working Holiday Scheme — age 18–30, up to 1 year
- Argentina: Working Holiday Programme
- Chile: Working Holiday Programme
Documents Typically Required
Police Clearance
Almost all working holiday visa applications require a police clearance certificate. In Ireland, this means a Garda vetting disclosure from the National Vetting Bureau. Processing time is typically 2–4 weeks. Some countries require this to be notarised and apostilled.
Academic Qualifications
While a degree is not always required for working holiday visas, some programmes (particularly teaching programmes in South Korea and Japan) require notarised and apostilled copies of degree certificates.
Proof of Funds
Many countries require proof that you have sufficient savings to support yourself initially. This may require notarised bank statements.
Medical Certificates
Some countries require medical examinations or proof of health insurance. Resulting certificates may need notarisation.
Statutory Declarations
Some visa applications require sworn statements — for example, declaring you have no criminal convictions or confirming your travel intentions.
Country-Specific Requirements
Australia
Australia's Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) generally has straightforward document requirements. Police clearance and proof of funds are the main documents. Australia is a Hague Convention member — apostille applies.
Canada (IEC)
Canada's IEC programme has three streams: Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op. Police clearance is required for all streams. Canada joined the Hague Convention in 2024 — the apostille process now applies.
Japan
Japan requires a detailed application including a planned itinerary, statement of reasons, proof of funds, and police clearance. Japan is a Hague Convention member.
Timeline
- 8+ weeks before: Apply for Garda vetting; research specific requirements
- 4–6 weeks before: Book notary appointment; gather documents
- 3–4 weeks before: Notarise documents
- 2–3 weeks before: Obtain DFA apostille
- 1–2 weeks before: Submit visa application
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all working holiday visas require notarised documents?
Most require at least a police clearance certificate, which may need notarisation and apostille. Requirements vary by country.
How long does the process take?
Allow at least 6–8 weeks from start to finish, including Garda vetting, notarisation, and apostille.
Can I get all documents notarised in one appointment?
Yes — bring all documents to a single appointment. Each will need a separate apostille from the DFA.
What if I'm already abroad?
Use the Irish embassy or a local notary with apostille. It's always easier to arrange before leaving Ireland.
Need Documents Notarised in Cork?
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