Ultimate Guide to the Australian Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417)
If you're seeking an affordable way to experience Australia, a Working Holiday Visa is your best option! This visa allows you to work and travel simultaneously, making it perfect for young adventurers. Australia is a top destination for young travelers due to its diverse climate, ranging from tropical bush-land in the north to mountain ranges and snow in the east. As a vast country, Australia takes time to explore, and travel costs can add up. A working holiday visa not only helps you fund your journey but also provides opportunities to meet fellow travelers and create lasting memories.
Considering moving, living, and working in a different country can be nerve-wracking and confusing. That's why I've put together a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process of applying for a working holiday visa in Australia. This guide covers everything you need to know to take your first steps with confidence.
In this blog you will find a detailed guide on:
How to apply for a Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
Eligibility Criteria
Application Process
Benefits
Post-application steps
Purpose and Benefits of a Working Holiday Visa:
A Working Holiday Visa (WHV) is designed for young people to enjoy an extended holiday in Australia while supporting their travels through short-term employment. Most job contracts under a WHV last for about three to six months, as permanent positions are not permitted. However, contracts can be extended for an additional three to six months if both you and your employer agree.
The benefits of a WHV include the opportunity to live and work in Australia for up to 12 months, the ability to study for up to four months, and the possibility of extending the visa depending on your country of origin and completion of specified regional work, which will be explained in detail later in the blog.
Eligibility Criteria
Since the eligibility criteria is based on your country of origin, please refer to the Australian Department of Home Affairs for detailed information.
Age Requirement: To apply for a WHV you must be between 18 and 30 years old (inclusive) at the time of application. For some countries, the age limit extends to 35.
Passport: You must hold a valid passport from an eligible country.
Previous Visas: You cannot have previously entered Australia on a subclass 417 or 462 visa.
Health and Character: You must meet health and character requirements.
Financial Requirements: You must have sufficient funds to support yourself (generally AUD 5,000) and for a return or onward ticket.
Application Process - Step-by-Step Guide:
If you pass the eligibility checks, then you can go ahead and apply for your WHV.
To apply for your Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) you will need to:
Visit the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.
Create an ImmiAccount to start your application process.
Gather Required Documents:
Valid passport.
Proof of sufficient funds.
Health insurance (recommended).
Recent passport-sized photograph.
Complete the Online Application:
Once you have all the required documents, you will need to log into your ImmiAccount and complete the online application form.
Follow the steps on the online application form and provide accurate information regarding personal details, health, character, and financial status.
After you have completed the online application you will then need to pay the Application Fee (Visa fee). The visa application fee costs approximately AUD 635.
You may be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a local application center and Health Examination depending on your application.
After you have followed all these steps you will need to wait until your application is processed.
Processing times can vary, typically taking around 7 to 34 days.
Post-Application Process
If your application has been successful you will receive an email including your Visa Grant Notification. You will need to take note of the Visa Grant Number, the conditions and validity period.
I would recommend downloading your visa to your phone so it's accessible offline, or you can print off. You will need your visa to hand when traveling to Australia.
You need to ensure you enter Australia within 12 months of the visa grant date - Your visa will become active upon your entry into Australia, not when you receive the grant.
Extending Your Stay
If you decide to extend your stay, you can apply for a second and third-year visa. However, to be eligible for these extensions, you must complete specified regional work in Australia.
Second Working Holiday Visa - To apply for a second year WHV, you will have to complete 3 months (88 days) of specified work in regional Australia while on your first WHV.
Third Working Holiday Visa - To apply for a third year WHV, you must have completed 6 months of specified work in regional Australia whilst on your second WHV.
If you are a UK citizen, you will no longer have to complete any regional work in Australia due to the new agreement between Australia and the United Kingdom. You can find more information about this on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
Regional work in Australia includes farm-work and hospitality work in regional areas. If you would like more information on Regional work in Australia and where to find/apply for it, please read my other blog - (link blog)
So, there you have it—a complete step-by-step guide to applying for a Working Holiday Visa in Australia. If you have already applied or are planning to apply, I highly recommend reading our other blog - ‘How to Set Up in Australia: A Working Holiday Visa Survival Guide’. There, you’ll find valuable tips and advice on setting up in Australia, including how to open bank accounts, obtain tax numbers, and get a phone SIM. Additionally, you’ll find guidance on finding work and accommodation.
