Apply for Work and Holiday Visa Australia – Subclass 417 & 462 Guide

Young tourists who wish to travel the world while making money will find Australia to be their ideal choice. For those between the ages of 18 and 30 (or 35 in certain countries), the Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462) may be your pass to an unforgettable journey.

Everything you need to know about these two visa subclasses, including eligibility, benefits, application procedures, and advice for a hassle-free travel experience, will be covered in this comprehensive book.

What is a Work and Holiday Visa?

The Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462) allows eligible young adults from specific countries to live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months.

There are two types:

• Subclass 417 – Working Holiday Visa

• Subclass 462 – Work and Holiday Visa

Both visas are quite similar but differ based on country eligibility and some requirements.

Who Can Apply?

You may qualify for either Subclass 417 or Subclass 462 based on your nationality.

Subclass 417 – Working Holiday Visa Countries

Includes:
UK, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Sweden, Netherlands, Norway, Japan, South Korea, and more.

Subclass 462 – Work and Holiday Visa Countries

Includes:
India, China, USA, Argentina, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and more.

To confirm your eligibility, check the official list of eligible countries.

Key Features of Subclass 417 & 462 Visas

Stay in Australia for up to 12 months
Work to support your travels
Study for up to 4 months
Enter and leave Australia as many times as you want
Option to apply for a second or third visa if eligible

Basic Eligibility Criteria

To apply for either visa, you must:

• Be between 18 and 30 years old (35 for some countries like UK, Canada, and Ireland)

• Hold a valid passport from an eligible country

• Have no dependent children with you during your stay

• Show sufficient funds (usually AUD $5,000)

• Meet health and character requirements

• For Subclass 462, meet education and English requirements

Documents Required

Here's what you typically need:

• Passport bio page copy

• Recent passport-sized photo

• Bank statement showing proof of funds

• Health insurance coverage

• For Subclass 462:

  • Educational certificate

  • English language test (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)

  • Letter of support from your home government (if applicable)

How to Apply for a Work and Holiday Visa (417 & 462)

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Use the Visa Finder Tool to confirm your eligibility.

Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount

Visit the ImmiAccount portal to register and start your application.

Step 3: Complete the Application

Fill in your details, upload documents, and submit the application.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

As of now, the fee is AUD $635. Keep your receipt for reference.

 Step 5: Wait for a Decision

Processing time is usually 14–45 days, depending on demand and documentation.

Second & Third Working Holiday Visas

Want to stay longer in Australia?

You can apply for a:

• Second Working Holiday Visa – After completing 3 months of specified work (e.g. farming, construction)

• Third Working Holiday Visa – After completing 6 months of specified work during your second visa

This allows you to stay up to 3 years in total.

What Kind of Work Can You Do?

While you’re on a Subclass 417 or 462 visa, you can work in:

• Hospitality and tourism

• Farming and fruit-picking

• Construction and trade jobs

• Retail and customer service

• Childcare and aged care (with certification)

Note: You can only work for one employer for up to 6 months, unless granted an extension.

Can You Study on This Visa?

Yes! You can study for up to 4 months while holding a Subclass 417 or 462 visa. It's a great chance to gain short-term skills or complete English language courses.

Health Insurance for Work and Holiday Visa

Although it’s not mandatory, having health insurance is highly recommended. Medical care in Australia can be expensive if you're not covered.

Search for Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) plans that suit your needs.

Tips for a Successful Application

Apply early, especially during peak seasons
Double-check your documents before submission
Keep your passport valid during the whole process
Use certified translations if documents are not in English
Show genuine intentions to work and holiday in Australia

Final Thoughts – Make the Most of Your Work and Holiday in Australia

The Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462) is more than just a visa—it’s your pass to explore the stunning landscapes of Australia, meet new people, and earn while you travel. Whether you want to farm in Queensland, surf in Bondi, or serve coffee in Melbourne, this visa makes it possible.