Travel and work in Wales

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Nestled between lush landscapes, historic castles, and vibrant cities, Wales beckons as a destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural richness.

If you’re considering combining travel with work in Wales the country offers diverse opportunities for those seeking to boost their income while travelling.

Wales boasts a diverse economy with opportunities in sectors such as technology, healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing.

While English is widely spoken, especially in professional settings, Welsh is also an official language. Familiarising yourself with basic Welsh phrases can be appreciated, particularly in more rural areas where the language is more commonly used.

The cost of living in Wales is generally lower than in many other parts of the UK. Research and plan your budget considering expenses like accommodation, transportation, and daily necessities.

The Home Office is curbing illegal employment by requiring employers to see documentary proof of your status. Employers found employing people illegally will be liable for huge fines per employee.

Always keep tax documents such as the P60, and when you finish working send both parts of your P45 to your employer’s tax office. When you are ready to leave the UK, complete form P85, a leaving certificate that asks your intentions about returning to the UK to work.

United Kingdom working holiday visa

As Wales is part of the United Kingdom it does not have its own seperate working holiday program. The United Kingdom (of which Wales is a part) generally follows a unified immigration system.

The United Kingdom has made Working Holiday Visa agreements with the following participating countries and if granted the visa will allow you to live and work in Wales.

The working holiday visa allows you to:

• Work in Wales on a short term basis
• Live in the United Kingdom for up to one year
• Enter the UK at any time while your visa is valid
• Exit the country and return at any time during the validity of your visa
• Study – for some courses you’ll need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate

As of January 2021, EU citizens are subject to the UK’s new immigration system, which treats them similarly to non-EU citizens. This means that EU citizens who want to work in the UK generally need to apply for a work visa or have another form of legal permission to work.

Working in the Welsh tourism industry

Wales’ tourism industry spans a multitude of roles, including tour guides, hospitality and event planners.

There are regular vacancies for hotel work in Cardiff and Swansea throughout the year. In a seaside resort hotel, you may stand a better chance of employment if you are available for the whole season from April to October instead of the peak months of July and August.

It’s worth remembering that seaside hotels may provide you with accommodation and food allowing you to save money to continue your travels.

Many employment agencies specialise in catering work and once on their books, you can earn reasonably good money.

Wales is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Working in adventure tourism provides opportunities to lead activities such as hiking, rock climbing, or water sports in the stunning Welsh landscapes.

Familiarise yourself with popular destinations such as Cardiff, Snowdonia, Pembrokeshire, and the Brecon Beacons. Each region has unique attractions, and understanding their appeal enhances your ability to engage with visitors.

If you have a recognised qualification in yachting, climbing, swimming, canoeing, etc. you should be able to find employment as an instructor throughout the summer months.

If the job involves working with children, you will be asked to provide a police clearance check.

Work in Wales as an au pair or nanny

As an au pair or nanny in Wales, your primary responsibility is the well-being and care of children. This includes engaging in educational activities, organising recreational pursuits, and occasionally assisting with light household tasks related to the children.

Working as an au pair or nanny in Wales offers a unique cultural exchange opportunity. You’ll become an integral part of a Welsh family, immersing yourself in their daily life, traditions, and customs while sharing your own cultural background.

Living in a bilingual environment—where both English and Welsh are spoken—provides an excellent opportunity to enhance your language skills. Communicating with the local community and children can contribute to a rich language-learning experience.

Consider registering with au pair agencies that specialise in placements in Wales. These agencies facilitate connections between au pairs and host families, ensuring a smooth process.

Explore online platforms, such as AuPairWorld open_in_new and GreatAuPair open_in_new, where families in Wales may post opportunities for au pairs or nannies. Be diligent in vetting families and understanding their expectations.