Live, Travel & Work in Australia – Subclass 417/462 Visa for Young Adults

Looking for the perfect way to explore Australia, gain international work experience, and fund your travels? The Work and Holiday Visas (Subclass 417 & 462) are designed just for you.

Whether you're taking a gap year, on a break from studies, or want to experience life in Australia, these visas allow young adults aged 18 to 30 (or 35 for some countries) to travel and work Down Under for up to 12 months — with the potential to extend!

What Is the Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462)?

The Subclass 417 (Working Holiday) and Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday) visas are part of Australia’s youth mobility program. They offer young travellers the chance to live, work, and travel across Australia for up to a year.

While both visas allow similar benefits, they apply to different nationalities and have slightly different requirements.

Key Differences Between Subclass 417 and Subclass 462

Feature

Subclass 417

Subclass 462

Eligible Countries

UK, Canada, France, Japan, etc.

USA, China, Indonesia, etc.

Education Requirement

None

Yes – high school or higher

Letter of Support Needed?

No

Yes – for some countries

English Requirement

No

Yes – functional English

You can check the full list of eligible countries on the Department of Home Affairs website.

What You Can Do on the 417/462 Visas

Work legally in Australia to support your travels

Travel freely across all states and regions

Study for up to 4 months

Apply for a second or third visa by completing regional work

Experience Australian culture, events, and natural beauty firsthand

These visas are ideal for backpackers, students, and adventure-seekers who want more than just a tourist experience.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 or 462), you must:

Be 18 to 30 years old (or up to 35 for some nationalities like Canada, Ireland, UK)

Hold a valid passport from an eligible country

Have sufficient funds (usually around AUD $5,000)

Meet health and character requirements

Hold adequate health insurance

For Subclass 462: provide proof of education and possibly a letter of support from your government

Additionally, you must be outside Australia when applying and when your visa is granted.

How to Apply for the 417/462 Visa

Create an ImmiAccount online via immi.homeaffairs.gov.au

Complete the online application form

Upload documents like your passport, bank statement, and health insurance

Pay the visa fee (AUD $635, subject to change)

Wait for visa approval (typically takes 1–6 weeks)

Once granted, you have 12 months to enter Australia, and your visa starts from the first date you enter.

Extend Your Stay – Second & Third Year Options

You can extend your stay in Australia by applying for a second or third Work and Holiday Visa — but only if you complete specified work in eligible industries and regions.

Common types of eligible work:

Farm work (fruit picking, harvesting)

Construction and mining in rural areas

Bushfire recovery or flood relief work

Tourism and hospitality in northern Australia

Each extension requires a minimum number of days (usually 88 or 179) of work, depending on whether you're applying for a second or third-year visa.

Tips for a Successful Application

Make sure your passport is valid for the full visa duration

Provide clear, certified documents

Show proof of funds with a recent bank statement

Book travel insurance that covers your entire stay

Plan ahead – some positions in agriculture or hospitality may require booking in advance

Join social media groups for backpackers and working holidaymakers to stay updated on job openings and experiences

Why Choose Immigration Buddy?

Navigating visas can be tricky, especially with changing requirements. At Immigration Buddy, we specialise in helping young travellers and working holidaymakers get their applications right the first time.

We offer:

Visa consultation and eligibility checks

Help with required documents

Assistance with applying for second and third visas

Ongoing support during your stay in Australia

Let us take the stress out of your visa journey!

Ready to Work and Travel in Australia?

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live, travel, and work in one of the most exciting countries in the world. The Subclass 417 and 462 visas are your gateway to adventure, independence, and global experience.

Apply now or contact Immigration Buddy to start your Australian journey today!

With the right guidance and preparation, you can enjoy a seamless visa experience and make unforgettable memories while living your dream in Australia. Whether you're picking fruit in the outback, working in vibrant cities like Sydney or Melbourne, or exploring the beaches and wildlife, your working holiday will be full of growth, cultural exchange, and excitement. Start now, and let Australia become the next chapter in your life story.