Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462)

The Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462) is a temporary visa that allows young adults from eligible countries to travel, work, and study in Australia for up to 12 months. It’s part of Australia’s Working Holiday Maker program and is ideal for those seeking cultural exchange, international work experience, and adventure.

This visa is different from Subclass 417 and includes additional eligibility requirements such as education qualifications, English proficiency, and in some cases, a government support letter.

Key Benefits of the Work and Holiday Visa 462

• Live and Work in Australia for 12 Months: Earn money while exploring Australia’s cities, beaches, and outback.
• Multiple Entry: Travel in and out of Australia as many times as you like during the visa validity
• Work Rights: Work for up to 6 months with each employer, across various industries
• Study Option: Study or train for up to 4 months
• Pathway to Second and Third 462 Visas: Extend your stay by completing specified work in regional or approved industries.
• Cultural Exchange: Experience Australian lifestyle and contribute to local communities.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Subclass 462 visa, you must meet the following requirements:

Age Requirement

• Be 18 to 30 years old (inclusive) at the time of application.

Passport from an Eligible Country

Eligible countries include: Argentina, Austria, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Ecuador, Greece, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Peru, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, Uruguay, USA, Vietnam

Education Requirements

• Most applicants must have completed tertiary education or two years of undergraduate study.
• Requirements vary by country. For example:
  • USA: Senior secondary certificate.
  • Malaysia: Tertiary degree or two years of university.
  • Israel: Secondary education + military service or exemption.

English Language Proficiency

• Must demonstrate functional English (e.g., IELTS 4.5 or equivalent), unless from an English-speaking country.

Letter of Support (if applicable)

Required for applicants from countries like Ecuador, Greece, Indonesia, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Peru, Poland, San Marino, Slovenia, Thailand, Turkey.

Financial Capacity

• Must show AUD $5,000 in savings plus funds for return travel.

Health & Character Requirements

• Medical checks and police clearance certificates may be required.

No Dependent Children

• You cannot include family members or bring dependent children.

Visa Conditions

Once granted, the Work and Holiday Visa comes with specific conditions:

• Work Limitations: You can work for up to 6 months with one employer.
• Study Limitations: ou can study or train for up to 4 months.
• Multiple Entry: You can leave and re-enter Australia multiple times during the 12-month validity.
• Specified Work for Extensions
  To apply for:
  • Second 462 Visa: Complete 3 months of specified work.
  • Third 462 Visa: Complete 6 months of specified work.

Approved industries include:

• Agriculture
• Hospitality
• Tourism
• Fishing
• Bushfire recovery work
• No PR Pathway: This visa does not lead directly to permanent residency, but you may apply for other visas while in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)