The Australian Working Holiday Visa is one of the most popular visa options for young people aged 18-30 (or 35 for some countries) who want to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months.
Which Working Holiday Visa Should You Apply For?
Subclass 417
Available to passport holders from Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan, UK and more.
Subclass 462
Available to passport holders from Argentina, Austria, Chile, China, Czech Republic, USA, Spain, Thailand, Turkey and more.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
- Age: Must be 18-30 years old when you apply (18-35 for some countries)
- Sufficient Funds: Have access to approximately AUD $5,000 to support yourself initially
What Can You Do on a Working Holiday Visa?
You CAN:
- • Work in Australia for up to 6 months with each employer
- • Study for up to 4 months
- • Leave and re-enter Australia multiple times
- • Travel throughout Australia
You CANNOT:
- • Work for more than 6 months with the same employer
- • Study for more than 4 months
- • Bring dependent children
Extending Your Stay: 2nd and 3rd Year Visas
You can extend for a second and even third year by completing specified work in regional Australia.
Second Year Requirements
Complete 3 months (88 days) of specified work in regional Australia during your first year.
Processing Times
Subclass 417
Subclass 462
Processing times move constantly and vary with your country and circumstances. Check the current global visa processing times on the Department of Home Affairs website before you book anything.
Costs and Fees
Government Visa Application Charge
Figures current as at July 2026. Note: Some applications may be subject to a STAC fee. Visa application charges are indexed and change periodically, so always confirm the current figure on the Department of Home Affairs pricing page before you lodge.
Our Working Holiday Visa Info Pack
Everything you need for a successful Working Holiday application and stay in Australia.
About the Author
Matilda - MARN 0958254
With 16+ years of experience in Australian migration law, Matilda has helped thousands of young travelers navigate the Working Holiday Visa process.