A working holiday in Australia is a great way to travel long-term while making money to fund your travels around the country. A working holiday visa allows foreigners to live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. Applying for a WHV is a lot simpler and quicker than most people realize and there are lots of job opportunities that are not difficult to find. This guide will explain everything you need to know about what a working holiday is, how to get a visa, what to know before and after arriving in Australia, and more.
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A Working Holiday in Australia
What is a Working Holiday?
A working holiday is when you visit a country for an extended period of time while working a paid job in order to fund your travels.
Australia’s Two Working Holiday VISA Options
Australia offers two types of working holiday visas (WHV); Subclass 417 and Subclass 462. Each visa enables you to do the same type of work and offers the same opportunities.
The difference between the two is who is eligible to apply. For example, US citizens are only eligible for the subclass 462 visa and citizens from the UK can only apply for a subclass 417. There will be different requirements to apply based on what country you are from.
There are 6 countries that offer working holiday visas for US citizens.
What You Can Do on a Working Holiday
This visa allows you to legally work in Australia and do any type of short-term/seasonal work for up to 12-months (but no longer than 6-months with the same employer). You can also study for up to 4 months.
Requirements for a WHV
As a US citizen, to apply for a WHV (Subclass 462), you need to be between the ages of 18-30, have a high school diploma or equivalent, have not previously entered Australia on another WHV, have not been previously refused a Australian visa, and have proof of AUD 5,000 (roughly $3,600 USD).
If you are from a different country you can find a list of requirements/eligibility for the 462 visa, here and for the 417 visa, here.
Duration of Stay in Australia
You are able to stay in Australia for up to 12 months while on a working holiday visa. If you would like to stay longer, you can apply for a second or third WHV. Both will allow you to stay for an additional 12 months.
This means you could be in Australia on a working holiday for up to 3 years, as long as you continue to meet the requirements.
You Need to Apply Before You Go
You can not apply for a working holiday visa while in Australia. You must apply from outside of the country and then enter the country on the visa.
However, if you are currently on your first working holiday visa in Australia, then you can apply for your second and third visa while in the country.
Money You Can Make
The money you make will depend on your specific job, how many hours you work, and how good you are at saving. As of May 2026, the national minimum wage in Australia is AUD24.95/hour.
Most people make enough money to live comfortably while in Australia and/or save up enough money for a road trip around the country.
Entry and Exit Restrictions
You must enter the country within 12 months of getting your visa. Then, you are able to enter and exit Australia as many times as you like, as long as your visa is valid.
How to Get a Working Holiday VISA for Australia
Requirements
As a US citizen, to apply for a WHV (Subclass 462), you need to be between the ages of 18-30, have a high school diploma or equivalent, have not previously entered Australia on another WHV, have not been previously refused a Australian visa, and have proof of AUD 5,000 (roughly $3,600 USD).
If you are from a different country you can find a list of requirements/eligibility for the 462 visa, here and for the 417 visa, here.
Cost
It costs AUD670 (roughly $450 USD) to apply for an Australian working holiday visa. This does not account for any medical checkups, appointments, or other document fees you may need to pay in order to apply for your visa.
You should also consider the following start-up costs; round-trip airfare, transportation to/from your destination, police clearance, health/travel insurance, phone/sim card, and other start up costs.
What You Need to Apply
As a US citizen, you will need to obtain the following documents in order to apply;
- Identification
- Passport
- Birth Certificate
- *If you do not have a birth certificate you will need other proof such as; a court documentation, government ID, or family book stating your parents names.
- Photos
- Colored passport photos less than 6-months old
- *Be sure to look up current passport photo regulations
- Evidence of Education
- H.S. diploma, GED certification, or equivilent
- Proof of AUD 5,000 (roughly $3,600 USD).
- Bank statment
- Police Certification/Clearence
- *You may need to complete a background check in your country
How to Apply
The only way to apply for a working holiday visa is through the Australian Government via paper or online application.
To apply online, you must first create an account and fill out all of your personal information. You will upload all of your documents during this process. Then you will pay the application fee of AUD670 (roughly $450 USD) and submit your application. Overall, this should not take more than a couple hours.
From there, you will wait for an email from the Austrian government letting you know the status of your application. If more information is needed, they will contact you.
How Long it Takes
The approval process will vary from person to person. Some people receive their answer within 48 hours but it can take up to 2 weeks.
Next Steps
Once your application is approved and you are granted your working holiday visa, you have 12 months from the date it is issued to enter the country. Once you enter the country your 12 month working holiday begins. If you do not enter the country within 12 months of visa approval, your visa will expire.
If You are Rejected
If your WHV gets rejected, you will receive a rejection email with the reason as to why you were rejected. You can re-apply but you will need to pay the application fee again.
Choosing a Job on Working Holiday VISA in Australia
Job Restrictions
An Australian WHV allows you to work almost any kind of short-term job. The only restriction is that you cannot work for the same employer for more than 6 months.
Popular Working Holiday Jobs
There are many different kinds of entry level and skilled jobs you can do on a working holiday. Some of the most popular are;
- Hospitality: hostel/hotel worker, housekeeping, administration, tour guide, retail, and catering.
- Food Service: barista, bartender, server, dishwasher, cook, baker, and chef.
- Childcare: au pair, nanny, and teacher assistant.
- Labor: farm or ranch worker, construction, mining, and traffic control.
- Other: event and festivals, sales, marketing, house sitting, and finance.
How to Choose a Job
When choosing a job, consider what your goals are for your working holiday. Are you hoping to work as much as possible to save a bunch of money and then travel for as long as you can? Is your goal to get experience in a specific industry? Do you just want an easy part-time job so that you can enjoy your holiday?
You should choose your job based on what you want your working holiday to look like.
Highest Paying Working Holiday Jobs
Some of the higher paying jobs you can do in Australia are; farm work, mining, traffic control, or construction. Of course, these jobs are more physically demanding and require you to work long days/hours.
You can also make a good amount of money by working jobs that offer tips such as; tour guide, bartender, barista, server, etc… You can find these jobs in tourist areas, but remember that tipping culture in Australia is different than it is in the USA.
Jobs You Need to Do to Get a Second VISA
If you want to stay in Australia longer than 12 months you can apply for a second WHV. To do so, will need to have completed 3-months (or 88 days) of specified work.
You can do any type of work listed in the link above, but many people choose to do farm work (specifically harvesting or fruit picking) because these jobs are easy to get and can be found all across the country.
Some people who know they want to stay in Australia for more than 12 months will complete this type of work at the start of their visa. However, you can do it at any point during your 12-months. But, if you do not complete 3-months of specified work, you can not apply for a second visa.
How Long it Takes to Find a Job
The time it will take to find a job depends on what type of job you are looking for, how many people are applying, and how much effort you put in. For most people it takes a couple weeks after arriving in country and some get a job before moving to Australia.
It’s easier to find entry level jobs in bigger cities such as Sydney or Perth because there are more options, especially in the hospitality and tourism industry. Higher level jobs that require more skills/experience can take a bit longer to find because many employers are looking to hire permanent employees for these roles.
Choosing a Location in Australia
Australia is a very large country and it’s food, culture, and vibes can vary drastically from city to city. Where you live and work in Australia will influence your working holiday experience, so it’s important to choose your location carefully.
What to Consider When Choosing a Location
When deciding what city/town you want to live and work in while in Australia, you should consider the following;
- Do you want to live in a busy city or smaller town?
- What weather do you prefer?
- What transportation is available to you? How will you around?
- What do you want your days off to look like?
- Do you want to be surrounded by other expats or around locals?
- Are there things on your bucket list that will effect where you want to spend your time?
- What kind of housing is there?
- What is the cost of groceries and entertainment in the area?
- What is the entertainment in the area?
Locations to Work in Australia
You can go almost anywhere in Australia on a working holiday and should do your research on the locations you would enjoy living in.
Some popular cities;
- Sydney: Largest and most populated city in Australia with the highest cost of living. A fast-paced, cosmopolitan city with something always going on. Tons of entertainment opportunities; from beach days to vibrant nightlife.
- Perth: More relaxed than other cities and considered to be more remote. Great for people who are looking for a calmer and quieter lifestyle.
- Melbourne: Known as the culture capitol and has a large art scene. It’s considered to have a European feel but a high cost of living.
- Brisbane: Known for it’s sunny days, warm tempatures, and laid-back lifestyle. Big on outdoor activities and has a smaller feel.
- Adelaide: A great place for foodies and coffee lovers. Known for it’s architecture and many festivals.
How to Find a Job with an Australian Working Holiday VISA
There are several ways you can find and apply to jobs in Australia; search job board websites, join a work and travel program, or go door to door to apply.
Websites to Find a Working Holiday Job in Australia
On the websites below you will find job listings from employers looking to hire for all types of jobs in Australia. You can apply for these jobs before or after you arrive in Australia.
- Work in AUS
- Backpacker Jobs Abroad
- Workforce Australia
- Seek
- Sidekicker
- Getting Down Under
- Jora
- Adzuna
- uWorkin
- The Territory Australia
- Travelers at Work
- Gum Tree (Basic membership is free, or a premium membership is $99/year.)
- Working Holiday Jobs (Basic membership is free, or a premium is $79/year or $109 for 2 years.)
Recruitment Agencies
You can find and apply for working holiday jobs with help via the recruitment agencies below;
Australian Work & Travel Programs
You do not need to join a program to find a job on a working holiday visa, but some people find it easier and want the support these programs provide.
Listed below are known companies that offer working holiday programs in Australia. To join these programs, you need to pay a program fee. Each company’s fee will differ depending on what they provide. The programs usually include one or more of the following; visa application support, accommodation, in-country support, job placement, etc…
- InterExchange
- JENZA (in partnership with BUNAC)
- Greenheart Travel
- Global Work & Travel
- Alliance Abroad
- Oyster Worldwide
- ULTIMATE
- AIFS
Applying in Person
Believe it or not, it is common to find a job by going door to door and see who is hiring. Take a few copies of your resume with you and stop by restaurants, coffee shops, bars, etc… and ask if they are hiring. Lots of expats find working holiday jobs this way and it’s easier than you may think.
Before You Arrive in Australia
How Much Money to Bring
You need to have proof of AUD 5,000 to obtain your visa and enter the country. This amount will be more than enough to get you started and keep you going while you find a job. However, it’s easy to spend money while on vacation and you should be cautious about how much you spend, especially if you are not yet making an income.
Consider the following start up costs; arrival accommodation/rent, transportation, food, cookware, phone plane, laundry, utilities (if not included), and entertainment.
It’s also good to have emergency funds incase you need to book a plane ticket to another part of Australia or need to return home for any reason.
Booking Your Flight
When you arrive in Australia, you will most likely need to show proof of a plane ticket out of the country or proof of enough funds to buy a return ticket. What a lot of people do is purchase and open return ticket. This allows you to show proof that you will be departing the country but you will not need to choose an exact departure date.
Heath Insurance
There is a difference between travel insurance and health insurance. While neither are required while on a 426 or 417 WHV, you should get heath insurance in case there is a medical emergency or you need to see a doctor while you are living abroad. There are tons of options you can find just by doing a google search. You should shop around to find which provider is the best fit for you.
Accommodation
Booking some sort of accommodation before you arrive will ensure you have a place to go when you land and can serve as a home base while you are looking for a more permanent location. Many people choose to stay in a hostel or rent an airbnb while looking for a more permanent accommodation.
Arriving in Australia on a Working Holiday VISA
Arriving in Australia
When you arrive in Australia, you will need to show you passport, visa, and (most likely) proof of AUD 5,000 in funds via a bank statement. Once you enter the country your visa is active and your 12 month working holiday begins.
Phone Number / SIM
To get an Australian phone number you will need to buy a SIM card. All phones need to be unlocked in order to install a SIM card. It’s easiest to unlock your phone while still in your home country. You can unlock your phone by calling your mobile provider.
You can buy a virtual SIM card or a physical SIM card. There are tons to choose from so be sure to do your research on what one is best.
Most newer phones do not have a way to install a physical SIM card so you may only be able to install a virtual SIM. This is an easy process and can be done before you leave the country. To get a physical SIM card you will need to go to a cell phone/SIM card provider once you land in Australia and provide your passport.
Banking
In order to get paid, you will need to set up a bank account. For most banks, you can just walk in and set up an account. You will need to provide you passport and proof of address. If you prefer, it is also possible to set up an account before you arrive in the county via the bank’s website.
When choosing a bank, consider it’s location in relation to where you want to live and work. If you plan on traveling around the country, it is best to stick with the popular banks that have multiple branches around the country, such as; Common Wealth Bank, National Australian Bank, Westpack, and ANZ.
Tax File Number
A tax file number (TFN) is not a requirement but you will end up paying more taxes if you do not have one. You can get one online for free via the Austrlian Taxation Office’s website.
To get a TFN you will need to first have your visa and have an Australian address. You will need your passport, phone number, and email. Once you apply it can take up to 4 weeks for your TFN to arrive by mail. However, you can call them a few days after you apply and get your TFN over the phone.
You will need to give your employer your TFN before starting your job.
Superannuation Fund
A superannuation fund (super) is a government supported savings account that your employer must contribute to for your retirement (if you earn over AUD $450/month before tax). When you leave Australia you can withdraw the money that has accumulated in the account.
You need to set up this account before you start your job. To learn how to set up this account, visit the ATO website.
Finding Housing
There are a handful of longer-term housing options if you are on a working holiday.
- Hostel
- Hostel’s offer shared or single rooms and are great options if you are looking to connect with other travelers and are trying to save money.
- You can find hostel option by using the website hostel world.
- Airbnb
- There are many different types of fully furnished airbnbs and they usually come with necessities such as laundry and cookwear.
- You can find options on the Airbnb website.
- Shared Accomodation
- You can connect with others to search for housing and roommates.
- Find these opportunities through sites such as; Flatmates, Flatmate Finders, or Facebook groups in the area you are looking to live in.
- House Sitting
- You can create a house sitter profile and connect with Australian locals who are offering free room and board in exchange for taking care of their home and pets.
- Join platforms like; Trusted Housitters, Mind a Home Austrlia, or Aussie Housesitters.
- Included Housing
- You can find a job with housing included so that you do not need to pay rent.
- Most of these jobs will be remote farm work or Au Pair/nanny jobs.
- Renting
- You can rent a room, apartment, house, unit, etc…
- You can find rentals by using websites like; Domain and Real Estate.
Drivers License
You do not need a special license to drive a regular vehicle while in Australia. You can drive on your USA license as long as it is valid. (The only exception to this is if you are in the Northern Territory for more than 3 months or in the New South Wales and Victoria Territory for more than 6 months.)
When Your Working Holiday VISA Ends
Getting a Second Working Holiday VISA
You can not extend your WHV, but you can apply for a second and third WHV. This is essentially just getting another Subclass 462 visa. This will enable you to do another working holiday for 12 more months.
To be eligible for a second WHV, you need to meet all the requirements for the first WHV, have a first WHV that has not expired past 28 days, and have completed 3 months of specified work.
You can apply for a second or third WHV online (the same way you applied for your first one) while you are in Australia. It will cost AUD 670.
Doing a Different Working Holiday VISA
If you had your fill of Australia but want to continue your working holiday, you can do a New Zealand working holiday, or consider one of these 6 working holiday’s for US Citizens.
Filing Taxes
You will need to lodge a tax return at the end of the year, and you do not need to be in Australia to do so. You can lodge a tax return with a registered tax agent, or online via the Australian Taxation Office’s website.
To do so, you will need your TFN, Passport, Income Statement (provided by your employer), and bank details (of the bank you want your taxes returned to). You should get your tax refund within 4 weeks.
Going Back to Australia
When your working holiday ends and you want to go back to Australia, you can do so on a tourist visa or another work visa.
Conclusion
A working holiday in Australia is a great way to experience life like a local while making money to fund your travels. It’s easy to get a working holiday visa and finding a job is not as complicated as most people think. Hopefully this post was able to provide you with everything you needed to know about a working holiday in Australia. Have you been on a working holiday? What was your experience like? Is there anything you would want to add? Please let me know in the comments below.
