Subclass 462 visa – Australian work and holiday visa

Subclass 462 is one of the most desired Australian visas among international people. It allows them to enjoy their holidays while still being able to work to support themselves in the beautiful country. 

How to increase your chance of being granted this Work and Holiday visa? Unlock the secrets to securing the Subclass 462 Work and Holiday Visa with our expert tips!

What is a Subclass 462 visa?

The Subclass 462 visa offers young individuals the opportunity to enjoy a working holiday in Australia for up to three years. Upon initial visa approval, you can extend your stay to three years by meeting specific requirements.

In addition, you need to distinguish between subclass 462 and subclass 600 visa:

• Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday Visa): Allows visa holders to travel and work in Australia.
• Subclass 600 (Visitor visa): Allows visa holders to visit Australia for tourism. You are not allowed to work while holding this visa.

Benefits of the Subclass 462 Work and Holiday visa

Holders of the Subclass 462 visa enjoy the following privileges:

• Residency: Stay in Australia for up to 12 months initially, with the possibility to apply for an extension if eligible.
• Multiple entries: Freedom to travel in and out of Australia throughout the visa validity period.
• Work and study: Permission to work for the duration of the visa and study for up to 4 months.

Requirements for the Subclass 462 Work and Holiday Visa

To qualify for the Subclass 462 visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age: Typically between 18 and 30 years old (inclusive), depending on the country of origin.
• Nationality: Must hold a passport from an eligible country participating in the Work and Holiday program with Australia.
• Education: Generally, applicants must have completed at least two years of post-secondary education or have equivalent qualifications.
• Functional English proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate their English language proficiency through specified tests or educational background.
• Financial Capacity: Ability to support oneself financially during the stay in Australia.
• Health and Character: Meet health and character requirements as stipulated by the Australian immigration authorities.

Consulting with a registered migration agent can help ensure all visa 462 requirements are met for a successful visa application.

To apply for the Subclass 462 visa a second time, you must have at least 3 months of work experience in one of the required fields. For a third application (third year visa 462), you’ll need at least 6 months of relevant work experience.

Required Documents for Subclass 462 Visa Application

For a Working holiday visa 462 application, you typically need the following documents:

• Identification Documents
  • Valid passport
  • Certified copy of your birth certificate
  • Certified copy of your national ID card or registration book
  • ID card photos
  • Proof of legal name change (if applicable)
  • Marriage or divorce certificate (if applicable)
• Education: Provide one of the following:
  • Bachelor’s degree
  • Diploma certificate (program duration must be at least 2 years)
  • Confirmation from a university that you have completed at least 2 years of study
• English Language Certificate (if applicable)
• Financial Evidence: Proof that you have at least AUD 5,000 for initial stay
• Health and Character:
  • Health examination certificate
  • Police clearance certificate or evidence of no criminal record
  • Evidence of no outstanding debts to the Australian government

Ensure all documents are certified copies as required for your Subclass 462 visa application. Contact VEM if you need further assistance. Our consultant – Mr. Peter Cao, a registered migration agent (MARN: 1577877), with more than 10 years of experience in the migration field, will assist you.

Steps to apply for Work and Holiday visa

Steps to Apply for the Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) Visa:

• Step 1: Check Eligibility
• Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
• Step 3: Gather Required Documents
• Step 4: Complete the Application Form
• Step 5: Pay Application Fees
• Step 6: Submit Application
• Step 7: Await Decision
• Step 8: Receive Visa Grant
• Step 9: Plan Your Travel
• Step 10: Comply with Subclass 462 visa conditions

Cost of a Subclass 462 visa application

According to the latest update from the DHA, the application fee for a Work and Holiday visa (Subclass 462) has increased from 635 AUD to 650 AUD.

Additionally, you may incur additional costs for health examinations, biometrics collection, and police clearance checks.

Subclass 462 visa processing time

The processing time for the Subclass 462 Work and Holiday Visa can vary depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of your application. As of the latest available information, the subclass 462 visa processing times are:

To ensure your visa application is processed promptly as a ‘ready-made decision’ for the earliest possible approval, contact VEM for expert assistance.

Work field for visa extensions

To be eligible for a second or third Subclass 462 Work and Holiday Visa extension, you need to complete specific types of work in designated areas of Australia. Below are the key industries and requirements:

• Agriculture, Forestry and fishery
• Aged care
• Road building
• Hospitality in remote areas

Latest Update About Subclass 462 In The Financial Year 2024 – 2025

From July 1st 2024, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has introduced a ballot system for subclass 462 applications from China, Vietnam, and India. The Australian Government will provide further details, including ballot opening dates, once they finalize the arrangements.

Currently, the subclass 462 program is open in other countries. However, it is still temporarily closed in Vietnam and is expected to reopen at the end of this year when the DHA begins implementing the ballot system.

Applications successfully submitted before this change will not be affected. However, the processing time to be granted these subclasses 462 will be longer than before.

In addition, In the financial year 2024-2025 financial year, there are 1,500 places for subclass 462. Moreover, applications submitted on August 25th, 2023, but still pending a decision, will be prioritized for processing in the 2024-2025 financial year.

Pathways to become an Australian permanent resident with visa 462

The Subclass 462 visa does not lead to permanent residence (PR). However, you can apply for another visa that supports your PR journey, such as a Australian Student visa, Australian Skilled visa or Australian Partner visa, provided you meet the respective requirements.

We support our clients throughout their entire immigration journey. Contact VEM for expert assistance today.

Find out more about other Australian visa:

• Subclass 600 visa – increase your rates with our useful information
• How do the new Australian migration policies affect you?
• Choose a professional Australian migration agency from the beginning to enhance your chances of getting a visa

By: Peter Phong D Cao – Registered migration agent

(MARN: 1577877, MIA: 12648)

Frequently asked questions