Australia is known for its beautiful landscapes, iconic wildlife, and laid-back lifestyle, making it a popular destination for travelers from all around the world. If you’re looking for an opportunity to work and travel in Australia, a Working Holiday Visa (WHV) (Subclass 417) could be the perfect solution. Keep up to know about this Visa in Australia, including how to apply, who is eligible, and what you can do with your Visa.
What is a Working Holiday Visa?
A Working Holiday Visa is a temporary visa that allows young people to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. This visa is designed to promote cultural exchange and closer ties between Australia and other countries. It is also known as Visa 417, and it is available to citizens of certain countries between the ages of 18 and 30 (or 35 for some countries).
Who is Eligible for a Working Holiday Visa in Australia?
To be eligible for a Working Holiday Visa in Australia, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be aged between 18 and 30 (or 35 for some countries)
- Hold a passport from an eligible country
- Have no dependent children
- Have sufficient funds to support yourself in Australia and leave the country at the end of your stay
- Adequate health insurance for visa holders
- Meet character requirements
Eligible countries for the Working Holiday Visa include the UK, Canada, the Republic of Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, the Republic of Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan (other than an official or diplomatic passport), Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (including British National Overseas passport holders) and Northern Ireland.
How to Apply for a Working Holiday Visa in Australia?
To apply for a Working Holiday Visa in Australia, you must apply online through the Department of Home Affairs website. You will need to provide personal information, including your name, address, and passport details, as well as evidence of your eligibility for the visa.
You must also pay the application fee, which is currently AUD $510.
Once your application is submitted, it will be processed by the Australian Government. If your application is successful, you will be issued a visa grant notification, which will include the conditions of your visa.
What Can You Do with a Working Holiday Visa in Australia?
With a Working Holiday Visa in Australia, you can work and travel throughout the country for up to 12 months. You can work in any occupation, but you cannot work for the same employer for more than 6 months (unless you have a special exemption). This is designed to encourage travelers to move around and experience different parts of the country.
In addition to working, you can also study for up to 4 months with a Working Holiday Visa. This is a great opportunity to improve your English language skills or gain new qualifications.
Finally, you can travel and explore Australia during your stay. Australia has a vast and diverse landscape, from the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast to the rugged outback of the Northern Territory. You can also experience Australian culture, from trying Vegemite to watching a game of Australian Rules Football.
Extending your VISA 417 for more 12 months
If you want to extend your Working Holiday visa for another 12 months, you must have completed three months of specified work in regional Australia during your first year in the country. Specified work is defined as work in certain industries and regions of Australia.
To be eligible for an extension, your specified work must be paid in accordance with Australian legislation and awards. Some of the industries that qualify for specified work include farming, fishing, mining, and construction. Additionally, eligible regions are those that are considered to be outside of the major cities, such as Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney.
You can check all about specified work here.
Conclusion
If you’re thinking about applying for a Working Holiday Visa, it’s important to plan ahead and research your options. Make sure you have enough funds to support yourself during your stay and consider where you want to work and travel in Australia. With the right planning and preparation, you can have an unforgettable experience in Australia with a this Visa.