Working Holiday in Australia

Which visa is for you?

You must apply before your 31st birthday (or 36th, where the limit is 35). An application lodged after that is not valid.

What you usually need

Czech and Slovak citizens (subclass 462):

• A Czech or Slovak passport
• Tertiary education – usually completed studies or at least two years of university
• Functional English (for example an IELTS result or English-taught study)
• Enough money for your start, usually about A$5,000, plus a return ticket or the money for one
• Good health and character
• Places for 462 visas are limited each year for some countries, so applying early matters

German and French citizens (subclass 417):

• A German or French passport
• Enough money for your start, usually about A$5,000, plus a return ticket or the money for one
• Good health and character
• No education or English test is required

Requirements differ by country and change from time to time. Always check the current requirements for your passport on the official Home Affairs website.

What can you do on the visa?

• Work in almost any job – usually up to 6 months with the same employer.
• Study for up to 4 months – perfect for an English course.
• Travel in and out of Australia as often as you like while the visa is valid.
• Stay a second or third year if you do eligible "specified work" in regional Australia, for example farm, tourism or construction work in eligible areas.

From working holiday to student

Many people come on a working holiday, fall in love with Australia and want to stay longer – often as a student. Important: since 2 October 2026, working holiday (417 and 462) visa holders can no longer apply for a student visa inside Australia. The application must be made from outside Australia, and you must be outside Australia when the visa is granted. So plan the switch early – a short trip home or to a nearby country is usually part of the plan. We help you choose a course and college that fit your goals and budget, enrol in good time, and plan the timing before your working holiday visa ends.