High school done, now what? With a Work and Travel program you can gain new experiences abroad and discover working life along the way. For the duration of your stay, the necessary financial means have to be earned through odd jobs, but at the same time the program also offers insight into another culture, mentality and language.

The minimum age for this program is 18, and you should have sufficient language skills. Work experience isn't necessary, but it does demand commitment. Later, these practical insights can be especially helpful when choosing a career and a workplace, since flexible, independent travel leads to open-mindedness and self-confidence. Of course you can organize and plan your stay abroad on your own. That's a cheaper alternative to a Work and Travel organization. Nevertheless, such a provider also offers many advantages.

Benefits of a Work and Travel Organization

Work and Travel organization
  • a dedicated contact person on site
  • someone helps with the job search and the visa application
  • if you don't have much experience abroad yet, a Work and Travel organization is a great support
  • you often receive a participation certificate
  • orientation seminars prepare you optimally for your stay
  • add-ons can be booked (surf lessons or travel health insurance)

There Are Many Organizations, but Which One Is Right?

In Germany, Austria and Switzerland there are well over 25 different Work and Travel providers, which differ in price and services. How are you supposed to know which organization you want to travel with?

One of the largest and oldest associations is the provider "Travelworks", which supports you in four different destinations: Oceania, Latin America, North America and Europe. In case traveling alone isn't an option, this Work and Travel organization offers a buddy discount for two. The world's leading provider "AIFS" offers something similar. Here a participation certificate is also issued. Uniquely, you can choose between the different jobs in advance.

Work and Travel organization

For example, you have the chance to work only on a farm or ranch if you select that accordingly beforehand. The Work and Travel organization "STA Travel" advertises particularly affordable and authentic trips. Stays in Australia, New Zealand and Canada are possible here, and you have the option of booking a starter package that includes accommodation, job search, a foreign bank account or tax number so that a stress-free adventure can begin. "Sprachcaffe" is one of the smaller providers and presents the Working Holiday program. For a stay of up to 90 days in the USA or Canada, this has the advantage that you don't have to apply for a visa.

In addition, "World-Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms" can offer travelers accommodation on organic farms and ranches, as well as free meals. In return, you work on the farm during that time.