subclass 417

Working Holiday (subclass 417)

For young adults (18–30, or 35 for some countries) who want to holiday and work in Australia for up to a year.

Overview

Holders of eligible Working Holiday passports (Korea is one of around 19 participating countries) aged 18–30 at application — 35 for some nationalities. Check the Home Affairs tool below for your specific case.

Key requirements

Hold a passport from an eligible country (Korea is eligible).
Be 18–30 years old at time of application (some nationalities up to 35).
Have not previously held a Working Holiday visa (for first application).
Have enough funds (typically AUD 5,000+) and a return ticket or sufficient funds to leave.

Step by step

1
Create an ImmiAccount on the Home Affairs website.
2
Complete the subclass 417 application form online.
3
Upload supporting documents: passport bio page, proof of funds, return ticket evidence.
4
Pay the application fee and biometrics fee if requested.
5
Wait for a decision, then enter Australia before the 'must arrive by' date.

Tips from experience

Apply from Korea before flying — you generally cannot apply onshore unless you hold another substantive visa.

Regional work (e.g. farming, mining, construction in approved postcodes) unlocks a second-year visa — many backpackers plan this early.

6 months with one employer is the rule, not a guarantee — employers may offer shorter contracts.

TFN (Tax File Number) is essential before your first paid shift — apply online for free the day you arrive.

Pros & cons

Pros

+Cheap to apply and fast to process.
+Flexible — you can travel, work, or both.
+Pathway to a second/third year via regional work.

Cons

−Cannot stay with one employer more than 6 months (limits career-building roles).
−No path to permanent residency directly from subclass 417.
−Limited study time (4 months).

Duration

Up to 12 months from the date of first entry. Can extend to a second and (for some) third year via specified work in regional areas.

Work rights

Full-time work with any one employer for up to 6 months. Can do 3 months specified work to qualify for a second-year visa.

Study rights

Up to 4 months of study allowed during the visa period.

Cost

Main applicant: AUD 650 (as of 2024).

Processing time

Often days to a few weeks if all documents are in order. Apply online via ImmiAccount.

Next steps

Check your eligibility, gather documents, and apply via ImmiAccount at least a few weeks before your planned travel date.

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