North America visa information
We can make your OE planning to North America hassle free with this easy to follow table of visa requirements. We've sussed out all the important information you will need to know about working holiday, study and tourist visas for the USA and Canada - including age limits, visa validity, restrictions, processing time and whether or not you need to have travel insurance.
North America is a great destination to head off on a short or long OE. And if you're looking to do a bit of work while you're there, STA Travel and our partner IEP can sort you out with working programmes from being a counsellor at a summer camp, to working as a driver in the mountains. If you're OE is more about the fun stuff and you are looking to do a bit of travel, make sure you check out the details below on entering North America, particularly the States.
Please bear in mind that visa requirements can change from time to time. Make sure you obtain complete and up-to-date information before making your work or travel plans.
Your essential North America visa information
Working holiday
| Country | Age limit | Length of visa | Restrictions | Processing time | Travel insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada (Work Canada) |
18-30 years | Up to 12 months (can be extended another 12 months) | 4-6 weeks | Compulsory | |
| USA (Work USA) |
4-12 months (visa type depending) |
Must be a full-time student or have graduated in the last 12 months | weeks |
Compulsory | |
| USA (Camp USA) |
19-35 years | 4 months + 30 days of travel | For stated camp only | 4 weeks | Compulsory |
Holiday/tourist
| Country | Age limit | Length of visa | Restrictions | Processing time | Travel insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | None | Up to 6 months | n/a (stamped on arrival) | Advised | |
| USA | None | 90 days or less | You must register online at least 3 days prior to departure | Strongly advised |
Study
| Country | Age limit | Length of visa | Restrictions | Processing time | Travel insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | None | Length of study programme | Full-time study at an accredited college or university | Up to 28 days | Advised |
| USA | None | Length of study programme | Full-time study at an accredited college or university | Issued up to 120 days prior to course starting | Advised |
Important note:
Visa information is provided as a guide only and is subject to change without notice. Some countries have additional visas available. Check with the relevant embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information. Processing time is a guide only and can change depending on the time of year you apply and demand.
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