Hello everyone. I know there are a lot of members here from Australia and New Zealand so maybe you all can help me. I'm an American citizen and I am wondering, what would it take to get authorization to live and work in Australia or New Zealand? How open is the job market to foreigners? Thanks in advance.
For Australia, It depends on a few things, if you are under 31 you can get a "working holiday visa" for 12 months which lets you work for 6 months for any one employer. These visas are easy to get.
The other visas are a little harder, you either need a sponsoring employer, meet strict criteria or have money to invest. For more info Federal Department of Immigration
Working holiday visas aren't available for Americans (it's a reciprocal program). You'd have to apply for one of the different types of worker's visas instead.
Oops, Americans are not eligible for a "working holiday visa" you will have to do it the hard way, unless you or your other half are a doctor, nurse or teacher (all professions in short supply here.)