Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about AussieStart

Visa Information

What is a Working Holiday visa?
A Working Holiday visa (subclass 417 or 462) allows eligible young adults to work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. Key features include:
  • Age requirement: 18-30 years (or 35 for some countries)
  • Work permission: Can work for the same employer for up to 6 months
  • Study permission: Can study for up to 4 months
  • Multiple entry: Can leave and re-enter Australia during visa validity
The specific visa subclass depends on your country of citizenship.
How do I qualify for a second or third year visa?
To extend your Working Holiday visa:
  • Second Year: Complete 3 months (88 days) of specified work in regional Australia during your first year
  • Third Year: Complete 6 months of specified work in regional Australia during your second year
Specified work includes agriculture, mining, construction, and certain hospitality work in regional areas. All work must be properly documented and verifiable.
What work qualifies for visa extension?
Qualifying work for visa extensions includes:
  • Agricultural work: Farming, fruit picking, plant/animal cultivation
  • Mining: Resource extraction and processing
  • Construction: Building projects in regional areas
  • Fishing and pearling: Commercial operations
  • Bushfire recovery work: In declared disaster areas
  • Tourism and hospitality: Only in Northern Australia (for 462 visa holders)
The work must be paid in accordance with Australian workplace laws and properly documented.
How can AussieStart help with my visa?
While we don't provide visa application services, AussieStart can help in several ways:
  • Finding qualifying work for visa extensions
  • Connecting you with employers familiar with visa requirements
  • Resources and guides about visa compliance
  • Community forums where experienced travelers share visa advice
  • Calendar tools to track your working days for visa purposes
For official visa advice, we recommend consulting the Department of Home Affairs website or a registered migration agent.
What documents do I need for my visa application?
Typical documents required for a Working Holiday visa include:
  • Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • Proof of sufficient funds (generally AUD$5,000)
  • Health insurance coverage for your stay
  • Return ticket or proof of funds for a departure ticket
  • Character documents (police certificates) if requested
  • Medical examination results if requested
Requirements may vary based on your nationality and individual circumstances.