Australia has updated its Second Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417), allowing young travelers to extend their stay for another 12 months while working, studying, and traveling. This visa is available for people aged 18 to 30 (or 35 for some countries) who have already held a First Working Holiday visa.
This article explains the purpose of the Second Working Holiday visa, the new changes introduced, and how they might impact you.
What’s New?
Here are the key updates you should know before applying:
- Visa Cancellation Risk: If you apply for another visa, such as the eVisitor (subclass 651) or Transit visa (subclass 771), your current Working Holiday visa will automatically end. This means you will lose your work rights and might not be eligible for another Working Holiday visa.
- Accurate Location Required: You must declare your current location correctly when applying. If your location is incorrect, your visa application may be refused.
- Processing Delays: The Australian government has warned of potential longer processing times due to a high volume of applications.
1# What is the Second Working Holiday Visa?
The Second Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) allows eligible travelers to extend their stay in Australia for another 12 months after completing a First Working Holiday visa. It lets you:
- Stay in Australia for up to 12 more months.
- Work short-term jobs to support your stay.
- Study for up to 4 months.
- Travel in and out of Australia multiple times.
- Do 6 months of specified work to qualify for a Third Working Holiday visa.
Visa Cost: AUD 650
Processing Time: Varies depending on application volume.
2# Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Checklist)
To apply for the Second Working Holiday visa, you must:
- Have already held a First Working Holiday visa (subclass 417).
- Be aged 18 to 30 (or 35 if you’re from eligible countries like Canada, France, or Ireland).
- Have completed 3 months of specified work in Australia (such as farm work, hospitality, or construction in regional areas).
- Hold a passport from an eligible country.
- Apply individually, as family members and dependent children cannot be included in your application.
- Apply while holding a substantive visa, or if your last visa expired less than 28 days ago.
3# February 2025 Changes and New Impact
The new changes introduced by the Australian government could directly affect your application and visa status:
Visa Cancellation for Other Visa Applications:
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- If you apply for another visa while holding a Working Holiday visa (such as an eVisitor or Transit visa), your Working Holiday visa will automatically end.
- This will stop your work rights and could prevent you from applying for another Working Holiday visa.
- What to do: Avoid applying for any other visas while on a Working Holiday visa unless you are prepared to stop working.
Accurate Location Declaration:
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- You must declare your correct location when applying.
- If your location is incorrect, your application could be refused.
- What to do: Ensure you enter your exact location during the application process.
Longer Processing Times:
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- The Australian government has warned that processing times might increase due to the high volume of applications.
- What to do: Apply well in advance and do not book travel until you receive written confirmation of visa approval.
4# How to Apply for Australian SWHV 2025?
Follow these steps to apply for the Second Working Holiday visa:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet the age, nationality, and work requirements.
- Gather Documents: Prepare your passport, proof of specified work, and other supporting documents.
- Apply Online: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/work-holiday-417/second-working-holiday-417.
- Wait for Approval: Processing times vary. Do not arrange travel until your visa is granted.
- Start Your Extended Stay: Once approved, you can enjoy your second year in Australia.
5# Why These Changes Matter?
Here’s how the new changes can impact your plans:
- If you apply for another visa, you’ll lose your work rights under the Working Holiday visa.
- Incorrect location details could lead to visa refusal.
- Longer processing times could delay your travel and work plans.
