Australia is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and a friendly working holiday visa program, making it an exceptional destination for international job seekers or individuals looking to take a break from their regular routine. With this visa program, travelers can effortlessly earn money while exploring Australia, without the concerns of breaching a tourist visa.
A Working Holiday Visa Subclass 417 (WHV) grants visitors the opportunity to travel and work within Australia for a duration of one year, providing an excellent platform to secure employment in the country. Regardless of your level of experience with international travel, you may have a few inquiries regarding how to prepare for a working holiday in Australia, what activities to engage in upon arrival, and how to conclude your journey, ensuring a fulfilling time abroad.
This comprehensive guide aims to assist you throughout the entire process, ensuring a meaningful and enriching experience as you work and travel in Australia.
How to Secure a Working Holiday Visa
To ensure a smooth immigration process when travelling to Australia, it is vital to make necessary preparations beforehand. It is recommended to start sorting out your entry requirements at least three months prior to your departure, allowing ample time for any potential complications. Here are three essential considerations:
Obtain a Working Holiday Visa
The first step towards embarking on a working holiday in Australia is obtaining a working holiday visa. Although it is an electronic visa, it is advisable to carry a printed copy of the visa confirmation during your travel, as a precautionary measure.
To apply for the visa, you will need to create an account with the Australian Department of Home Affairs and complete the online application.
Organize Your Finances
Ensure that you have sufficient funds for your working holiday by providing proof of financial stability. According to the requirements for entering Australia on a working holiday visa, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- Present a bank statement demonstrating access to a minimum of $5,000 AUD (approximately USD $4,000).
- Have a confirmed departure flight out of the country or possess enough additional funds to purchase one. To avoid any inconvenience, you should carry printed proof or a bank statement confirming your financial capability. It is recommended to keep all the necessary documents in a travel folder for easy access whenever you travel internationally.
- Select a Destination
One of the advantages of a working holiday in Australia is the flexibility it offers. You have the freedom to choose where you want to go and make the most of your experience. Whether you prefer exploring various locations or staying in one place and working full-time, planning is essential.
For an enriching working holiday, consider spending extended periods of time in different locations. For example, you can work weekdays in St. Kilda, a beach suburb in Melbourne, and enjoy leisurely evenings at the picturesque Luna Park. Keep in mind that Australia is a vast country with expansive landscapes, so travelling between towns may take longer than anticipated.
Types of Working Holiday Visa Subclass 417
1. First Working Holiday visa:
This visa allows individuals aged 18 to 30 (or 35 for certain countries) to have their initial extended holiday in Australia while also working to fund their trip.
- Eligibility: To be eligible, you must hold a passport from an eligible country or jurisdiction.
- Work opportunity: The visa allows you to work during your stay in Australia.
- Second Working Holiday visa: If you meet specific eligibility criteria, you can apply for a second Working Holiday visa subclass 417.
Other Details
- Duration of stay: The visa allows a maximum stay of 12 months in Australia.
- Cost: The application fee for the Working Holiday visa is AUD 510.00.
- Processing time: For 25% of applications, the processing time is less than one day. For 50% of applications, the processing time is less than one day. For 75% of applications, the processing time is 7 days. For 90% of applications, the processing time is 21 days.
2. Second Working Holiday visa
This visa allows individuals aged 18 to 30 (or 35 for certain countries) who currently hold or have previously held a Working Holiday visa to have a second working holiday experience in Australia.
- Eligibility: To be eligible, you must hold a passport from an eligible country or jurisdiction.
- Work opportunity: You have the flexibility to engage in any kind of work during your stay in Australia.
- Required work experience: To qualify for the second Working Holiday visa, you must have completed 3 months of specified subclass 417 work.
- Valid visa status: If you are already in Australia, you must hold a substantive visa or have had your last substantive visa expire less than 28 days ago.
- Third Working Holiday visa: Meeting specific eligibility criteria allows you to apply for a third Working Holiday visa.
Other Details
- Duration of stay: The visa allows a maximum stay of 12 months in Australia.
- Cost: The application fee for the Second Working Holiday visa is AUD 510.00.
- Processing time: For 25% of applications, the processing time is less than one day. For 50% of applications, the processing time is less than one day. For 75% of applications, the processing time is 7 days. For 90% of applications, the processing time is 21 days.
3. Third Working Holiday visa
This visa allows individuals aged 18 to 30 (or 35 for certain countries) who currently hold or have previously held a second Working Holiday visa to have a third working holiday experience in Australia.
- Eligibility: To be eligible, you must hold a passport from an eligible country or jurisdiction.
- Work opportunity: You have the flexibility to engage in any kind of work during your stay in Australia.
- Required work experience: To qualify for the third Working Holiday visa, you must have completed 6 months of specified subclass 417 work.
- Valid visa status: If you are already in Australia, you must hold a substantive visa or have had your last substantive visa expire less than 28 days ago.
Other Details
- Duration of stay: The visa allows a maximum stay of 12 months in Australia.
- Cost: The application fee for the Third Working Holiday visa is AUD 510.00.
- Processing time: For 25% of applications, the processing time is less than one day. For 50% of applications, the processing time is less than one day. For 75% of applications, the processing time is 7 days. For 90% of applications, the processing time is 21 days.
It is important to research and determine a suitable visa based on your country of origin. The work and holiday visa allows a 12-month stay in Australia with the opportunity to work. Note that the visa application process may include a healthcare and character assessment involving a chest X-ray, medical examination, and background check.
Take the next step and apply for a working holiday visa today!
With all the information provided, you are well-prepared to embark on an incredible journey of working and exploring Australia. The country offers limitless opportunities for both work and leisure, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure.
Imagine the joy of earning money while immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and diverse culture of Australia. Don’t miss out on this dream-come-true experience. Embrace the chance to work, travel, and discover yourself in the captivating beauty of Australia.
FAQ
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Is the Working Holiday 417 visa permanent?
The working holiday (subclass 417) visa is not a permanent visa. It is a temporary visa that stays valid for up to 12 months.
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Which countries are eligible for Working Holiday visa subclass 417?
This visa is eligible for citizens from the following countries or jurisdictions, holding a valid passport:
- Germany
- Canada
- Republic of Cyprus
- Republic of Korea
- Malta
- Belgium
- Finland
- France
- Denmark
- Estonia
- The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (including British National Overseas passport holders)
- Republic of Ireland
- Italy
- Japan
- Taiwan (other than the official or diplomatic passport)
- Sweden
- Netherlands
- Norway
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How long does it take to get a 417 Working Holiday visa?
The processing time for the 417 visa takes less than a day for 25%-50% of applicants. It can take up to 7 days for 75% of applicants, and around 21 days for 90% of applicants. However, it may take even longer if the applicant fills the visa application form incorrectly, all documents requested were not submitted, and if the visa department takes time to verify the applicant’s information.
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What is the document checklist for a 417 Working Holiday visa?
You need the following documents when applying for a subclass 417 working holiday visa:
- Identity documents
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Character documents
- Health certificate
- Nomination form, if required