How to Stay 3 Years on a Working Holiday Visa Australia

The Working Holiday Visa Australia lets young travellers live, work, and explore the country initially for 12 months. But if you're strategic, you can extend your stay to a full three years by meeting specific requirements.

Here’s exactly how to do it, from applying for your first visa to securing your third.

Step 1: Apply for Your First Working Holiday Visa

This is your starting point. You can apply for either the Subclass 417 or Subclass 462, depending on your nationality.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be aged 18 to 30, or up to 35 for some countries (like the UK, Ireland, Canada, and France)

• Hold a passport from an eligible country

• Have no dependent children during your stay

• Declare your correct location when applying

• Show proof of sufficient funds (around AUD $5,000)

Once approved, you can:

• Stay in Australia for 12 months

• Work for up to 6 months with each employer

• Study for up to 4 months

• Travel in and out of the country freely

The application fee is AUD $650.

Step 2: Complete 3 Months of Specified Work to Qualify for Year Two

To be eligible for your second Working Holiday Visa, you need to complete at least 3 months (88 days) of specified work in regional or designated areas while on your first visa.

Common types of eligible work include:

• Farm or harvest labour

• Construction or mining in regional areas

• Bushfire or flood recovery work

• Hospitality and tourism in northern or remote Australia (mainly for Subclass 462)

You must apply while holding a valid visa, or within 28 days of your previous visa expiring. Detailed records such as payslips, bank statements, and employment summaries are often required. If successful, you’ll get another 12 months to live and work in Australia.

Step 3: Complete 6 Months of Specified Work to Qualify for Year Three

To reach your third and final year, you must complete 6 months of specified work during your second visa.

The job types and locations are mostly the same as those accepted for the second-year application. However, the requirements are stricter. You must ensure:

• The work is performed during your second visa period

• All work meets the government’s definitions of “specified work” in eligible industries and postcodes

• You maintain proper documentation

Once granted, your third Working Holiday Visa provides another 12-month stay.

Important Reminders to Protect Your 3-Year Plan

• Never apply for a tourist visa while on your Working Holiday Visa—it will cancel your work rights immediately.

• Only do government-approved work in eligible locations. Volunteering is not accepted in most cases.

• Declare your correct physical location when applying. Inaccurate details may lead to refusal.

Ready to Stay 3 Years on a Working Holiday Visa in Australia?

By following the right steps starting with your first WHV, completing eligible work, and applying on time you can enjoy up to three years in Australia filled with work, travel, and unforgettable experiences.

Unsure if your job qualifies or need help preparing your next application? Speak with a migration advisor or registered agent to make sure your extension is secure and stress-free.

Turn a 12-month adventure into a three-year journey. Start today.