The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs and the New Zealand Embassy in Hanoi announced that the agreement took effect as of July 31.

“The main purpose of the scheme is to create opportunities for young people in the both countries to stay as visitors with the possibility of working, enabling them to experience and gain a better understanding of the cultures, lifestyles and languages of the host country,” said Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Pham Thi Hai Chuyen at the launch of the working holiday scheme on July 31.

The scheme marks Vietnam’s first such exchange programme with another country, although New Zealand already has over 30 working holiday schemes in effect with other nations.

Under the agreement, signed last December, up to 100 people from each country, ages from 18 to 30, will be granted visas in the other for up to 12 months so they can seek temporary employment to supplement travel funds or enroll in short-term training course.

Criteria for Vietnamese applicants include completion of a degree from an institution of higher education and proof of at least NZ$4,200 (US$3,400) available to support the holiday.

Criteria for New Zealand applicants require possession of a National Certificate of Education Achievement Level 2 or higher and proof of the same amount of funds to support the holiday.

While encouraging applicants to look for temporary job opportunities to support their stay, the applicant’s primary intention can enjoy their holiday rather than work or study, said New Zealand Ambassador to Vietnam Heather Riddell.