Where to Travel and Work Abroad in 2023

Have you ever dreamed of taking a year off to travel and work abroad? If so, a working holiday program might be just what you’re looking for – and 2023 is the year to go for it.

These programs allow Canadians (like you!) to work and travel in participating countries for an extended period of time, giving you the opportunity to experience new cultures, learn new skills, and make some money while you’re at it. If you need any more convincing, we’ve rounded up the best countries to work and travel abroad in 2023.

2023 is all about slow travel, and what better way to take advantage than on a travel and work abroad program?

The Lowdown on Working Holiday Visas

Wondering what a working holiday program is? Basically, Canada has an agreement with over 30 countries allowing Canadian youth to travel to a participating country and work while they and there to supplement their travels. Each country has its own requirements, such as age bracket and funds, but we’ll cover that in more detail below.

So, now that you know the intel, discover the top 7 places to travel and work abroad in 2023:

Now has never been a better time to visit our neighbours across the pond.

#1 The United Kingdom

With the UK Youth Mobility Visa, Canadians can travel and work across England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales in search of what is truly great in the UK: creative cities, charming countryside and cozy pubs; historical landmarks and a thriving arts, music, beer and culinary scene – whatever floats your boat, the UK has it. Plus, the UK Youth Mobility Visa allows you to work in most jobs (with the exception of being a professional sportsman), making it one of the most flexible visas out there. Ergo, you can gain work experience and build your career while experiencing the best of British culture.

Work visa age: 18 – 30
Work visa duration: two years

To see the full working holiday visa requirements, check out our UK Working Holiday Program page.

All things come to those to wait, and as one of the last countries to open up for travel again, Japan is set to live up to the hype.

#2 Japan

There is so much to see and do in Japan in 2023, we’ve written a dedicated blog post on why you need to travel to Japan on a working holiday in 2023. From truly unique culture to rich history, breathtaking landscapes, futuristic cities and iconic food, Japan is a great destination for those who want to experience something different.

Work visa age: 18 – 30
Work visa duration: one year

To see the full working holiday visa requirements, check out our Japan Working Holiday Program page.

From the sunny beaches of the Mediterranean to the vibrant cities of Madrid and Barcelona, Spain has a lot to offer.

#3 Spain

A working holiday in Spain will give you ample time to uncover this country’s culture, history and, of course, sunny beaches. Not only that, but it can also be a great opportunity to learn Spanish or improve your existing language skills – all best practiced over tapas and sangria, naturally. Plus, Spain has some of the best festivals in Europe, including our personal favourites: Sónar Barcelona and La Tomatine Festival.

Work visa age: 18 – 35
Work visa duration: one year

To see the full working holiday visa requirements, check out our Spain Working Holiday Program page.

Life Down Under ain't bad.

#4 Australia

Home to some of the best beaches in the world, surfing, the Great Barrier Reef, rainforests and deserts; unique wildlife, festivals, Sydney and Melbourne… life in Australia is top-notch. There’s still time to swap Canada’s brutal winter for life under the Aussie sun, check out our Australia Working Holiday Program page to find out how.

Work visa age: 18 – 35
Work visa duration: one to three years

Best summarized by Audrey Hepburn: Paris is always a good idea. In fact, the whole of France is.

#5 France

France is a great destination for those who love art, food, and culture. And quite frankly, who doesn’t? Spend a year perfecting your French surrounded by the stunning architecture of Paris, in the beautiful countryside of the Loire Valley, on the glamorous beaches of St, Tropez… you get the gist.

Work visa age: 18 – 35
Work visa duration: one year

Want to travel and work abroad in France? Check out our blog on How To Apply for the France Working Holiday Visa.

With the Italian working holiday visa, Canadians can spend a year uncovering Bel Paese (Beautiful Country).

#6 Italy

Aside from being the birthplace of pizza and pasta, there are so many other reasons to travel and work in Italy in 2023. From Renaissance towns and dramatic peaks to the Italian Riviera and postcard-perfect road trips, it’s hard to beat Italian living. And we haven’t even touched upon the history, the art, the people and the culture…

Work visa age: 18 – 35
Work visa duration: one year

Wondering how to get a working holiday visa for Italy? Check out our blog on How To Apply for the Italian Working Holiday Visa. Bellissimo.

For anyone looking for an adventure, New Zealand is the place to go.

#7 New Zealand

The home of Middle earth, New Zealand lives up to Tolkien’s imagination. Spend a year uncovering unspoiled natural wonders, experience Maori culture first-hand and take your pick of extreme sports (think: bungee jumping, sky diving, rafting and mountain biking). If you need any more reason to go, New Zealand is also set to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 in July. Plans sorted.

Work visa age: 18 – 30
Work visa duration: one year

To see the full working holiday visa requirements, check out our New Zealand Working Holiday Program page.

Stepabroad’s Travel and Work Abroad Programs

Whether you want to experience the charm of Europe, the unique culture of Japan, the beauty of Spain, the art and culture of France, or the natural beauty of New Zealand, our working holiday programs will set you up for success. From guiding you through your visa application to providing personalized job support, here are just a few of the perks of using our programs:

  • Personal trip coordinator
  • Step-by-step visa application guidance
  • Resume revisions and job support
  • Pre-departure support
  • In-country orientation
  • Support throughout your time abroad

All you have to do is decide where you want to go.

Ready to travel and work abroad?

Get in touch to learn more about our working holiday programs and start planning your epic adventure abroad.