Application process step by step
- 1
Check your eligibility
Confirm that you meet the age, nationality, financial, and health requirements. Make sure you are applying for the correct visa subclass (417 or 462) based on your passport.
- 2
Gather your documents
Prepare all required documents before starting the application:
- --Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity remaining)
- --Bank statement showing AUD 5,000+ in savings
- --Police clearance certificate from your home country
- --Medical examination results (if required for your nationality)
- --IELTS score report (for some 462 applicants)
- --Government support letter (for some 462 applicants)
- 3
Create an ImmiAccount
Go to immi.homeaffairs.gov.au and create your ImmiAccount. This is the online portal where you will lodge your application, upload documents, and track your visa status.
- 4
Fill out the online application
Log into your ImmiAccount and start a new application for the Working Holiday (417) or Work and Holiday (462) visa. Complete all sections carefully and honestly. You can save your progress and return later.
- 5
Pay the visa fee
The current visa application charge is AUD 650. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or other accepted payment methods. The fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is not granted.
- 6
Provide biometrics if requested
Applicants from certain countries may need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photograph) at a designated collection centre. You will receive instructions through your ImmiAccount if this applies to you.
- 7
Complete health examination if requested
If a medical exam is required, you will be given a referral letter to take to a panel-approved physician in your country. The exam usually includes a chest X-ray and a general health check. Results are sent directly to the Department of Home Affairs.
- 8
Wait for a decision
Processing times vary. Most applications are decided within 1 to 30 days, but some can take longer if additional information is requested. You can check your application status anytime through your ImmiAccount.
- 9
Receive your visa grant letter
Once approved, you will receive a visa grant notification letter via email with your visa details and conditions. Your visa is linked electronically to your passport -- there is no physical visa sticker.
💡 Apply when you have everything ready
⚠️ Visa validity starts on entry, not on grant
Total costs breakdown
Beyond the visa fee, there are several other costs to budget for during the application process:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa application fee | AUD 650 |
| Medical examination | AUD 150 - 400 |
| Police clearance certificate | AUD 30 - 100 |
| IELTS test (462 only, if required) | AUD 350 - 400 |
| Flights to Australia | AUD 500 - 2,000+ |
| Travel insurance (recommended) | AUD 500 - 1,200/year |
What happens after approval
Once your visa is granted, you will receive a Visa Grant Notification letter by email. This letter contains your visa grant number, conditions, and the date by which you must enter Australia for the first time.
You must make your first entry within 12 months of the visa grant date. After that, you have 12 months from your first entry to live, work, and travel in Australia.
Keep a digital and printed copy of your grant letter. Although your visa is electronic and linked to your passport number, having the letter is useful when dealing with employers, banks, and other services in Australia.