It’s time to start planning the journey of a lifetime.

It might seem daunting, but planning a working holiday to Australia is just the beginning of an incredible adventure. Here’s how to get started planning your ultimate gap year.

HOW DO I BEGIN PLANNING A WORKING HOLIDAY OR GAP YEAR?

Ocean Rafting, Whitsunday Islands, Queensland © Ocean Rafting

Planning a gap year can seem overwhelming, but take just a few steps and you’ll start to see your plans come together.

The first step to take is to apply for your working holiday visa. A valid visa is required to enter and remain in Australia. Citizens of Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Spain and the United States should apply for the Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462). Citizens of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and the United Kingdom should apply for the Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417). Check the Department of Home Affairs website for the full list of eligible countries.

After you’ve applied for the appropriate visa, do a bit of research on Australia’s distinct cities and regions. You might be drawn to the bustling city life in Melbourne or Sydney, or want to explore the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland. Western Australia offers a laid back coastal lifestyle, while the Northern Territory is known for its natural beauty and deep connection with Aboriginal culture. Head to Tasmania for stunning scenery and beautiful food, or explore Australia’s capital in Canberra.

Becoming familiar with all that Australia offers will help you decide where you’d like to begin your journey.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR A WORKING HOLIDAY VISA?

Barrington Tops, New South Wales © Nicola Easterby

It may seem daunting to apply for a working holiday visa, but the process is actually quite simple. First, you’ll need to gather coloured copies of specific documents, including a birth certificate, current passport and bank statement showing you have sufficient funds (usually AUD $5,000).

Next, you’ll complete your application with accurate information and attach any documents required. If you’re applying for a Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417), you are able to apply online. If you’re applying for a Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462), you’ll need to check whether you’re eligible to apply online, or whether you should submit your application on paper.

After you’ve applied, the Australian Government will notify you if they need any further information, or if you’re required to complete any police or health checks.

Follow the steps on the Home Affairs Website to complete each part of the application process.

WHAT DO I DO AFTER I APPLY FOR MY WORKING HOLIDAY VISA?

Spit to Manly walk, Sydney, New South Wales © Tourism Australia

Processing time for the working holiday visa can vary from just a few days up to about 70 days. Don’t forget to check your ImmiAccount and your provided email address regularly in case the Australian Government requests any additional information or documentation.

The most important thing is to wait until you’ve been granted the visa in writing before booking your flight to Australia. After your visa has been granted, you’ll have 12 months to enter Australia, at which time your permitted 12 months will begin, so it’s best to be sure you’ve been accepted before planning your trip.

Note: Tourism Australia is not the Australian government visa granting authority. The visa granting authority is the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. For up-to-date information, please refer to their website: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder.

The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with an Australian qualified immigration lawyer or migration agent if you are seeking legal advice.