Overview
The Subclass 462 Work and Holiday visa lets eligible young people (generally 18–30) from participating countries holiday and work in Australia for up to 12 months. Eligible specified work can unlock second and third visas. It is the counterpart to the 417 for a different set of countries and usually has additional education, English and government-support requirements.
The 462 mirrors the 417 for a different group of countries, with extra education, English and (often) government-support requirements and annual caps. Check your country’s specific rules early — places can run out.
Who is eligible
- Hold an eligible passport for the 462 program
- Be aged 18 to 30 at time of application
- Meet education and English requirements (varies by country)
- Provide any required letter of government support
- Have adequate funds and 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
- Check country-specific requirements. 462 requirements vary by country (education, English, government support letter, annual caps).
- Apply for the first visa. Apply online with the required evidence.
- Plan specified work. Eligible work can unlock second and third Work and Holiday visas.
Frequently asked questions
How is the 462 different from the 417?
They are equivalent youth work-and-holiday visas for different countries. The 462 usually adds education, English and sometimes a government-support-letter requirement, and may have annual caps.
Can I extend the 462?
Yes, by completing the required eligible specified work, you may be able to apply for a second and then third Work and Holiday visa.
What is the age limit for the 462?
Generally 18 to 30 at time of application.
Can I work for the same employer for more than 6 months?
By default no — Work and 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.