Student Visa vs Working Holiday Visa: Which One Is Right for You?

Australia offers two popular visa options for young individuals looking to study, work, or travel: the Student Visa (Subclass 500) and the Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 or 462). But which one is best suited for your goals?

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know from eligibility and costs to work rights and PR opportunities to help you make the right choice.

What’s the Purpose of Each Visa?

Understanding the core purpose of each visa helps clarify which one aligns with your intentions in Australia.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The Student Visa is designed for people who want to pursue full-time studies in Australia. It’s suitable if your long-term goal is to gain an Australian qualification and possibly apply for permanent residency (PR) through post-study pathways after gaining work experience.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417/462)

The Working Holiday Visa is intended for young travellers who want to explore Australia while working to fund their trip. It allows short-term study, but it’s mainly used for travel and temporary work.

Key Differences at a Glance

Below is a quick comparison of the main differences between the two visas based on eligibility, work rights, costs, and long-term potential.

Feature	Student Visa (Subclass 500)	Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417/462)
Purpose	Full-time study	Travel and work
Length of Stay	Up to 5 years	Up to 12 months (can extend)
Cost	From AUD 2,000	AUD 670
Work Rights	48 hours/fortnight (unlimited during breaks)	Full-time, any job, usually max 6 months per employer
Study Rights	Unlimited (must study full-time)	Study for up to 4 months only
Visa Switching	Cannot apply from 485 visa inside Australia	Can apply for Student Visa from WHV in Australia
Health Insurance	Must have OSHC	Strongly recommended, but not mandatory
Pathway to PR	Yes, through TR 485, 190/491 visas	Limited, unless transitioning to study or sponsored visa
Age Limit	No limit	18–30 or 35 (depending on country)

Student Visa Processing Under Ministerial Direction 111

If you're applying for a Student Visa from outside Australia, your application is processed under Ministerial Direction 111, which sets processing priorities for different applicant groups.

Applications are divided into two categories:

Priority 1 – High

This group receives faster processing. It includes:

• School students

• TAFE and ELICOS students

• Postgraduate research (PhD) students

• DFAT and Defence-sponsored students

• Applicants from Pacific Island nations and Timor-Leste

• Applicants including dependents under 18

• Students with education providers below their enrolment threshold

Priority 2 – Standard

This applies to:

• Higher Education and VET students whose education providers have met their prioritisation cap

• Other offshore applicants not included in Priority 1

If you’re lodging from offshore, it’s important to understand your priority level as it will impact how quickly your application is assessed.

Choose a Student Visa If You

The Student Visa is ideal for those focused on gaining qualifications and building a long-term future in Australia.

• Want to complete a certified course, diploma, or degree in Australia

• Plan to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (485) after study

• Intend to stay long-term and have a job pathway you know you want to pursue.

• Are ready to invest in tuition fees and OSHC

• Prefer a structured pathway with post-study work rights

Choose a Working Holiday Visa If You

The WHV is ideal for young adults who want to travel, work, and keep their future plans flexible.

• Are aged 18–30 (or 35 for eligible countries)

• Want to explore Australia while earning casual income

• Plan to transition to study or a sponsored visa later

• Prefer flexibility over structure

• Want to experience multiple regions and job types

Can You Switch from One Visa to Another?

Visa switching rules are important to consider if you're thinking long term.

• WHV to Student Visa: Yes, you can apply inside Australia.

• TR-485 to Student Visa: No, you must apply offshore. This is clearly stated in current visa policy.

• Student to WHV: Yes, if you meet the WHV age and passport requirements and apply offshore.

What About PR Opportunities?

If permanent residency (PR) is your goal, the Student Visa offers clearer and more structured migration pathways.

• After completing at least 2 years of study, you may qualify for a Temporary Graduate Visa (485).

• From there, you can pursue PR through the Skilled Independent (189), State Nomination (190), or Regional (491) visas, provided you build up the right experience in you occupation!

By contrast, the WHV has limited PR options unless you later transition to a Student Visa or secure employer sponsorship.

Student Visa vs Working Holiday Visa: Final Thoughts

Both visas serve different purposes, and the right choice depends on your situation.

• If you're serious about studying and know a job pathway you want to pursue, choose the Student Visa (500).

• If you're seeking adventure, work experience, and short-term flexibility, the Working Holiday Visa (417/462) may be a better starting point.

Still unsure which visa suits your goals? Book a free consultation with RACC Australia. Whether you want to study, work, or explore migration options, we’ll guide you step by step ensuring you make the right decision for your future in Australia!