Australia’s Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) is a fantastic opportunity for young adults from eligible countries to experience the wonders of Australia while funding their travels through temporary work.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Working Holiday Visa Australia, from eligibility requirements to the application process and beyond.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Australian Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417), you must meet the following criteria:
- Be between 18 and 30 years old (inclusive), except for Canadian, French, and Irish citizens who can be between 18 and 35 years old (inclusive).
- Hold a valid passport from an eligible country.
- Be outside of Australia when you apply for your first Working Holiday Visa.
- Have enough money to support yourself during your stay (approximately AUD 5,000).
- Have enough money to purchase a return or onward travel ticket at the end of your stay.
- Not be accompanied by dependent children at any time during your stay.
Eligible Countries
The following countries are currently eligible for the Australian Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417):
- Belgium
- Canada
- Republic of Cyprus
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (including British National Overseas passport holders)
- Republic of Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Republic of Korea
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Sweden
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.
Visa Types and Duration
The Australian Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) is available in three types:
- First Working Holiday Visa
- Second Working Holiday Visa
- Third Working Holiday Visa
First Working Holiday Visa
The first Working Holiday Visa allows you to stay in Australia for up to 12 months. During this time, you can work for up to 6 months with each employer and study for up to 4 months.
Second Working Holiday Visa
If you have completed at least 3 months (88 calendar days) of specified work in regional Australia while holding your first Working Holiday Visa, you may be eligible for a second Working Holiday Visa. This visa also allows you to stay for up to 12 months and work for up to 6 months with each employer, as well as study for up to 4 months.
Third Working Holiday Visa
To be eligible for a third Working Holiday Visa, you must have previously held two subclass 417 visas and completed at least 6 months of specified work in regional Australia while holding your second Working Holiday Visa. The third Working Holiday Visa also allows you to stay for up to 12 months and work for up to 6 months with each employer, as well as study for up to 4 months.
Specified Work
To qualify for a second or third Working Holiday Visa, you must complete a minimum of 3 or 6 months (respectively) of specified work in regional Australia while holding your previous Working Holiday Visa. Specified work includes:
- Plant and animal cultivation
- Fishing and pearling
- Tree farming and felling
- Mining
- Construction
- Bushfire recovery work (including volunteer work) in declared bushfire affected areas, after July 31, 2019.
Application Process
To apply for an Australian Working Holiday Visa, follow these steps:
- Check if you need to have health examinations.
- Gather your supporting documents, which may include proof of identity, character documents, and evidence of sufficient funds.
- Complete the online application form and pay the visa application charge.
- Wait for a decision on your application.
Visa Application Charge
The current visa application charge for an Australian Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) is AUD $635. Additional costs may include health examinations and police clearances.
Arriving in Australia
When you arrive in Australia, you must have a valid passport and your Working Holiday Visa. All non-Australian citizens must have a valid visa or an Electronic Travel Authority (eTA) to enter and remain in Australia. If you have been approved for a Working Holiday Visa, you do not require an eTA.
Working in Australia
As a Working Holiday Visa holder, you can work for up to 12 months during your stay in Australia. You are usually limited to a maximum period of 6 months with each employer. However, work is not a mandatory requirement for those on a Working Holiday Visa; working holiday visa Australia, undertaking work is optional for a Working Holiday participant.
Specified Work for Second and Third Visas
To qualify for a second or third Working Holiday Visa, you must complete a minimum of 3 or 6 months (respectively) of specified work in regional Australia while holding your previous Working Holiday Visa. Specified work includes:
- Plant and animal cultivation
- Fishing and pearling
- Tree farming and felling
- Mining
- Construction
- Bushfire recovery work (including volunteer work) in declared bushfire affected areas, after July 31, 2019.
Evidence of Specified Work
If you apply for a second or third Working Holiday Visa, you will need to provide evidence that you have satisfied the specified work eligibility requirement. Acceptable evidence includes:
- Pay slips
- Group certificates
- Payment summaries
- Tax returns
- Employer references
- Completed employment verification signed by your employer
- Piece rate agreement, if applicable
- Australian bank statement covering the period of declared specified work
- A written and signed agreement setting out any lawful deductions in pay.
Studying in Australia
As a Working Holiday Visa holder, you can study for up to 4 months during your stay in Australia.
This means you can enroll in a short course or take a few classes while on your Working Holiday Visa.
Extending Your Stay
While you cannot extend your current Working Holiday Visa, you can apply for a second or third Working Holiday Visa if you meet the eligibility requirements. This allows you to either extend your stay or come back for another year before your 36th birthday (for Canadian, French, and Irish citizens) or 31st birthday (for all other eligible nationalities).
Health Insurance
It is strongly recommended that you have adequate health insurance for your stay in Australia. While the Australian government provides some health care services through Medicare, Working Holiday Visa holders are not eligible for Medicare benefits.34 Private health insurance is essential to cover the costs of medical treatment and hospital stays.
Bringing Family
Working Holiday Visa holders cannot bring family members or dependent children with them to Australia. The visa is designed for young adults to experience Australia independently.
Restrictions
There are a few restrictions to keep in mind when holding an Australian Working Holiday Visa:
- You cannot work for the same employer for more than 6 months, except in certain circumstances.
- You cannot study for more than 4 months during your stay.
- You cannot bring family members or dependent children with you.
Advantages of a Working Holiday Visa
The Australian Working Holiday Visa offers several advantages for young adults looking to explore the country:
- Opportunity to travel and work in Australia for up to 3 years (with multiple visas)
- Ability to fund your travels through temporary work
- Chance to gain valuable work experience and skills
- Possibility to study for up to 4 months during your stay
- Ability to leave and re-enter Australia any number of times while the visa is valid.
Disadvantages of a Working Holiday Visa
While the Working Holiday Visa offers many benefits, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
- Limited to a maximum of 6 months with each employer
- No access to Medicare benefits for medical treatment and hospital stays
- Cannot bring family members or dependent children
- Cannot extend your current visa, but must apply for a new one if eligible.
Preparing for Your Working Holiday
To make the most of your Working Holiday in Australia, consider the following tips:
- Research potential employers and industries in advance
- Learn about Australian workplace culture and etiquette
- Familiarize yourself with the specified work requirements for second and third visas
- Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage
- Budget for visa application fees and other expenses
- Explore the many travel opportunities Australia has to offer
Conclusion
The Australian Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) is an excellent opportunity for young adults from eligible countries to experience the wonders of Australia while funding their travels through temporary work. By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and visa conditions, you can make the most of your Working Holiday and create lasting memories in this beautiful country.