Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
The Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462) allows young adults aged 18 to 30 (inclusive) from eligible countries to spend up to 12 months in Australia for a holiday while working to fund their travels. This visa is part of Australia’s Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program, which includes both the subclass 417 and subclass 462 visas.
Country-Specific Information
- As of October 1, 2024, passport holders from China, India, and Vietnam must participate in a visa pre-application process, known as a ballot, to be randomly selected to apply for a first Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa. Visa applications for these countries are now managed through the ballot process instead of the application cap.
How 26 Degrees Migration Can Help
We assist with:
- Verifying your eligibility based on age, education, and country
- Preparing a complete application with accurate documentation
- Advising on specified work for second and third visa applications
- Clarifying how the 462 visa may fit into your broader migration goals
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 18–30 years old (inclusive) at the time of application.
- Citizenship: Must hold a passport from an eligible country.
- Financial Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves upon arrival, typically around AUD 5,000.
- English language proficiency – must have at least functional English.
- Meet Educational Requirements – The applicant must meet the minimum education requirement as prescribed by the Department of Home Affairs. It varies and depends on the country of the passport.
- Letter of Support – The applicant may need to provide a letter of support depending on the country of their citizenship and passport.
- Health and Character: Meet health and character requirements.
- No Dependents: Applicants must not have any dependent children during their stay in Australia.
What You Can Do on This Visa
- Work: Engage in any type of employment to fund your holiday, usually can only work for the same employer for 6 months period.
- Study: Undertake short-term study for up to 4 months (17 weeks).
- Travel: Explore Australia during your stay. You can also travel outside Australia and return as many times as you want while the visa is in effect.
- Stay and validity: Up to 12 months from the date you enter Australia.
- Extending your stay: You may be able to stay longer by extending your visa and applying for a second Work and Holiday visa, if eligible.
Are you thinking of exploring Australia while gaining work experience? Book a consultation with 26 Degrees Migration for expert help with your Work and Holiday Visa or Working Holiday Visa applications.
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