Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417)

The Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) is a temporary visa that allows young adults from eligible countries to travel and work in Australia for up to 12 months. It’s designed to promote cultural exchange and help travellers fund their holiday through short-term employment. This visa is ideal for backpackers, gap-year students, and young professionals seeking adventure and international experience.

Key Benefits of the Working Holiday Visa 417

• Live and Work in Australia for 12 Months: Explore Australia while earning money through casual or seasonal jobs.
• Multiple Entry: Leave and re-enter 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 for up to 4 months during your stay.
• Pathway to Second and Third Working Holiday Visas: Extend your stay by completing specified work in regional Australia.
• Cultural Exchange: Immerse yourself in Australian lifestyle, culture, and work environments.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Subclass 417 visa, you must meet the following requirements:

Age Requirement

• 18 to 30 years old (inclusive) for most countries.
• 18 to 35 years old for passport holders from Canada, Ireland, France, and the UK

Passport from an Eligible Country

You must hold a valid passport from one of the following countries: Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Taiwan, United Kingdom.

Financial Capacity

• You must have at least AUD $5,000 to support yourself.
• You must also have funds for a return or onward ticket.

No Dependent Children

You cannot be accompanied by dependent children during your stay.

Health and Character Requirements

• Meet health standards (medical checks may be required).
• Provide police certificates if requested.

Health Insurance

While not mandatory, you are expected to maintain adequate health insurance during your stay.

Visa Conditions

Once granted, the Working Holiday Visa comes with specific conditions:

• Work Limitations: You can work for up to 6 months with one employer unless an exemption is granted.
• Study Limitations: You can study or train for up to 4 months.
• Multiple Entry: You can leave and re-enter Australia multiple times while the visa is valid.
• Specified Work for Extensions: To apply for a second or third 417 visa, you must complete:
  • 88 days (3 months) of specified work for the second visa.
  • 6 months of specified work for the third visa.

Approved industries include:

• Plant and animal cultivation
• Fishing and pearling
• Tree farming and felling
• Mining
• Construction
• Bushfire recovery work

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)