Overview
The Subclass 417 Working Holiday visa lets eligible young people (generally 18–30, or up to 35 for some passports) from eligible countries holiday and work in Australia for up to 12 months. Specified work in regional Australia can unlock second and third Working Holiday visas.
The 417 is the classic work-and-travel visa. The key planning point is specified work: completing the right regional work during your first or second year unlocks the next Working Holiday visa.
Who is eligible
- Hold an eligible passport for the 417 program
- Be aged 18 to 30 (or up to 35 for certain countries) at time of application
- Have adequate funds and no dependent children accompanying you
- Meet health and character requirements
Costs
Fees change with annual indexation. See the official Visa Pricing Estimator for the current figure.
Processing times
See the official global visa processing times .
How to apply
- Confirm passport eligibility. The 417 is for specific countries; others use the 462 Work and Holiday visa.
- Apply for the first visa. Apply online with funds evidence.
- Plan specified work. Eligible regional work can unlock a second or third Working Holiday visa.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the 417 and 462 visas?
Both are youth work-and-holiday visas. The 417 (Working Holiday) and 462 (Work and Holiday) cover different countries and the 462 historically has extra requirements such as education and English.
How do I get a second or third Working Holiday visa?
By completing the required period of eligible specified work (often in regional Australia) during your earlier Working Holiday visa.
What is the age limit?
Generally 18 to 30, but several countries have an age limit of 35. Check the official list for your passport.
Can I work for the same employer for more than 6 months?
By default no — Working Holiday visa holders are usually limited to 6 months with the same employer. From 1 January 2024 you can work longer with the same employer without asking the Department in several situations, including: working in different locations (including from home); plant and animal cultivation anywhere in Australia; natural disaster recovery work; and critical sectors anywhere in Australia such as agriculture and food processing, aged and disabled care, childcare, healthcare, and tourism and hospitality. In Northern Australia, you can also work longer than 6 months in fishing and pearling, tree farming and felling, construction or mining. If your work does not fall within one of these exemptions, you must apply to the Department for permission before continuing beyond 6 months with the same employer.