Taking a vocational course in Australia can be quite fulfilling, especially when you’re overseas. However, you might contemplate taking the holidays and getting some work in the area while you’re still here. While it is allowed, there are many things that working holiday makers must know about working holiday visas (WHVs) in Australia. This includes applying for a visa, the requirements that must be met, and the benefits of having a WHV. The process of applying for a WHV is relatively simple. However, there are some notable changes to keep in mind. Continue reading to learn more about what working holiday makers must know about Australia’s WHV.
What Are the Changes to the WHM Visa?
The Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa allows young people to live and work in Australia for up to 12 months. This is valid for multiple entries into Australia during the 12-month period. However, holders of this type of visa can only work with each employer for up to six months.
A notable change in the WHM visa is how some people wouldn’t need to undergo farm work to apply for second or third visas anymore. People with the 417 visa would typically have to undergo rural work for three months prior to other kinds of work, but that clause isn’t required anymore.
Applying for Onshore nil VAC WHM Visas
If you held a “COVID-19 affected WHM visa” and are in Australia, you may apply for an onshore nil VAC WHM visa before 31 December 2022. For the purpose of this application, you must have held a subclass 417 or 462 WHM visa on 20 March 2020, or if you held it before that date, it was your latest substantive visa.
You’re eligible for application if you’re in Australia at the time of your application, hold a substantive visa (or held a substantive visa in the past 28 days), or hold a bridging visa and meet the age, health and character requirements for the visa
You may apply for an onshore nil VAC WHM visa online. Once granted, it will be valid for 12 months from the granting date.
Applying for Offshore nil VAC WHM Visas
If you held a “COVID-19 affected WHM visa” and are outside Australia, you may apply for an offshore nil VAC WHM visa before 31 December 2022.
For the purpose of this application, a “COVID-19 affected WHM visa” meets the following criteria:
- Your latest WHM visa was a subclass 417 or 462 visa granted prior to 20 March 2020
- Said visa expired between 20 March 2020 and 31 December 2021, and it expired while you were outside Australia
- You left Australia before the WHM visa expired
You’re eligible for application if you’re outside Australia at the time of your application, hold a WHM-eligible passport, and meet the age requirements for your country of passport at the time of your application.
You may apply for an offshore nil VAC WHM visa online. As with the onshore nil VAC visa, it will be valid for 12 months from the granting date.
What Happens to Current WHM Visa Holders?
The Working Holiday Makers visa program is designed to promote cultural exchange and stimulate economic activity by allowing young people to work in Australia for an extended period of time. The program has been very successful in achieving these objectives, with over 200,000 people coming to Australia each year.
If you are a current or former Working Holiday Maker visa holder in Australia, you may be eligible to apply for a WHM visa with a nil VAC this 2022. If you have additional questions, seek out support services that can enlighten you about the situation.
Who Can Apply for a nil VAC WHM Visa?
The eligibility for the nil VAC WHM requires you to be outside Australia and to send in an application by December 2022. There’s also the need to be 18 to 30 years old, but any citizens from Canada, France, Denmark, Italy and Ireland can apply up to when they’re 35.
On top of that, applicants should be up to standard with their health and character. It is also mandatory for eligible applicants to come to Australia alone, not bringing any dependent children along with them.
How Can You Apply for a nil VAC WHM Visa?
The application process for a nil VAC WHM visa is actually quite simple. Go onto the immigration website and fill out the online form. This should be submitted to the Australian Department of Home Affairs. Prepare all the necessary documents ready, such as your passport, before starting the application process.
Conclusion
Overall, the Working Holiday Visa is a great opportunity for young people to work and study in Australia for up to 12 months. If you are eligible and meet the requirements, we encourage you to apply for a WHV.
Looking for vocational education in Australia? Australia Study is an international student support agency in Australia, offering study options and vocational courses. Get in touch with us today!
