Visa Overview

The Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462) is a popular program among young people in Europe and other countries. It allows young adults to travel overseas for around one year after completing their studies and before starting full-time employment, while working part-time to support their travel expenses.

For Chinese citizens and applicants from certain quota-restricted countries, the application process for the Work and Holiday Maker (WHM) Visa (Subclass 462) has undergone significant changes from 2025 onwards. A ballot (lottery) system has been introduced to manage the annual quota.

Rights Under the Work and Holiday Visa

• Stay in Australia for up to 12 months from the date of first entry

• Work in any suitable occupation, but for no more than 6 months with the same employer

• Undertake study or training for up to 4 months

• Enter and exit Australia multiple times during the visa validity period

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants for the Work and Holiday Visa must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a valid Chinese passport

• Be at least 18 years old but under 35 years old at the time of application

• Not bring dependent children to Australia
       (A spouse/partner may accompany the applicant but must apply for their own visa)

• Have sufficient funds to support themselves in Australia
       (at least AUD 5,000)

• Have enough funds to purchase a return or onward travel ticket at the end of the stay

• Meet educational requirements:
       Chinese applicants must hold a tertiary qualification or have completed at least two years of university study

• Have functional/basic English ability
       (equivalent to IELTS 4.5 or above)

• Meet health and character requirements

• Be a genuine visitor intending to holiday in Australia

Visa Application Fee

• Visa Application Charge: AUD 670

English Language Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate at least Functional English and meet one of the following test requirements. The test must have been taken within 12 months prior to lodging the visa application:

• IELTS
       Average score of 4.5 or above across the four components (Speaking, Reading, Listening, Writing)
       Both Academic (A) and General Training (G) versions are accepted

• TOEFL iBT
       Total score of 26 or above

• PTE Academic
       Total score of 24 or above