Dreaming of a year in Australia where you can work, travel, and experience life down under? The Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) could be your ticket. The good news is that applying for this visa is surprisingly straightforward. For most people, it’s no harder than applying for a tourist visa and you can usually do it yourself without paying for professional help.
At Pathway to Aus, we help people with all types of visas. But to the 417 visa, the process is so simple that most first-time applicants don’t need assistance that much. To make things even easier, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide that covers everything you need to know.
Who Can Apply?
The 417 visa is open to citizens of a wide range of countries, including:
- Many countries across Europe
- Canada
- The United States
- Taiwan
If your country isn’t on the 417 list, don’t worry! You may still be eligible for the Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462), which has slightly different requirements.
Age requirements
- For most countries: 18 to 30 years old
- For Canada and Ireland: 18 to 35 years old
As long as you apply before your 36th birthday, you’re in the clear. For example, if you lodge your application at 35 years and 11 months, you’ll still be considered eligible even if you turn 36 while it’s being processed.
Key Rules to Keep in Mind
- You must apply from outside Australia when applying for your first 417 visa.
- Family members (partners, children) cannot be included on this visa. Everyone must apply individually.
- You’ll need a valid passport from one of the eligible countries.
Documents You’ll Need
When you’re ready to apply, it helps to have the following on hand:
- A valid passport
- A recent bank statement showing at least AUD $5,000 (to prove you can support yourself on arrival and cover a return ticket)
- Police certificates if you’ve had any criminal convictions
- Health insurance (recommended, although citizens of some countries may qualify for Medicare while in Australia)
How to Apply for the 417 Visa
- Set up an ImmiAccount through the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Select “Working Holiday Maker” → “Subclass 417.”
- Fill out the application form carefully.
- Upload your documents.
- Pay the visa application fee (about AUD $650).
How Long Does It Take?
Processing times are usually quick. Many applicants receive approval within a day, as a large number of applications are auto-approved. That said, some cases can take longer—up to a couple of months. According to the Department of Home Affairs, about 90% of applications are finalised within two months.
After Your Visa Is Granted
Once approved, here’s what you can expect:
- You’ll have 12 months to enter Australia after the visa is granted.
- Your 12-month stay begins from the day you first enter Australia, not the approval date.
- It’s possible to extend your stay up to two more times if you complete the right kind of regional or specified work.
- While on this visa, you can also explore other visa options such as the Partner Visa, Student Visa, Skilled Migration, or Employer-Sponsored Visa.
Why This Visa Is Different
Unlike many other visas, the 417 is designed to be fast and flexible. It’s a chance to work casually, travel across the country and get a feel for what life in Australia is really like. And then because the application process is so straightforward, most people can do it themselves without stress.
Of course, if you’re planning to stay longer or transition into another visa type, that’s where it helps to speak with a registered migration agent. Our team at Pathway to Aus can guide you through the next step whether that’s study, skilled migration, or permanent residency.
Final Thoughts
The Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) is one of the simplest ways to experience Australia. With the right documents and a few preparation, you can apply online in just a few minutes and start planning your adventure.
If you’re already thinking ahead about life after your working holiday, we’d be happy to help you explore other migration pathways for you. Get in touch with Pathway to Aus to learn about options like general skilled migration or permanent residency.
