If you’re dreaming of waking up in Vienna, exploring the Alps, and gaining international work experience—all in one trip—Austria’s Working Holiday Scheme might just be your golden ticket. This opportunity lets young travelers from select countries work, travel, and live in Austria for up to 12 months, soaking in the rich culture, landscapes, and lifestyle of this heart-of-Europe destination.
Who Can Apply?
Austria has signed reciprocal working holiday agreements with the following countries:
- Australia – up to 12 months
- Canada – up to 12 months
- New Zealand – up to 6 months
- Argentina, Chile, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, USA – generally up to 12 months.
This scheme is only available to individuals aged 18 to 30 (sometimes up to 35 depending on your nationality). It’s ideal for students, recent graduates, or young professionals looking to travel while gaining short-term work experience in Europe.
Austrian WHV Visa Requirements
Here’s what you’ll need to qualify:
- Age: 18–30 (some exceptions allow up to 35)
- Nationality: One of the participating countries listed above
- Valid Passport: With at least 3 months validity beyond your planned stay
- Financial Proof: Sufficient funds to cover living costs and a return ticket (or ability to purchase one)
- Health and Travel Insurance: With minimum coverage of €30,000, valid throughout your stay
- Completed Visa D Application Form
- Biometric Passport Photo: Less than 6 months old
- Education Proof (for some countries like Canada or Australia): May include a degree certificate or university enrollment letter
- Police Certificate (required by some nationalities).
Where to Apply?
You must apply through the Austrian embassy or consulate in your home country. For some applicants already in Europe (e.g., Australians in the UK), the Austrian Embassy in London also accepts applications for:
- Australia (12 months)
- Canada (12 months)
- New Zealand (6 months)
Applications can also be submitted via VFS Global in selected countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
Tip: Apply 2–3 months before your intended travel date, as processing can take a few weeks.
What You Can Do in Austria?
- Work: Take up casual or short-term jobs (in hospitality, tourism, retail, etc.)
- Study: Enroll in short courses or language classes
- Travel: Explore Austria and the entire Schengen Area (up to 90 days in other EU countries during your stay)
Note: The working holiday visa is non-renewable and cannot be extended beyond its original validity.
Application Cost
The application fee for the Visa D – Working Holiday generally falls around €150, but this may vary by embassy. There may also be small service charges if applying through VFS.
Application Timeline
You can apply up to 3 months before your intended arrival in Austria. Applications submitted less than 3 weeks before departure may not be accepted. Plan early!
Final Thoughts
Austria’s Working Holiday Scheme is more than just a visa—it’s an invitation to experience European life up close. Whether it’s skiing in Innsbruck, attending Viennese balls, hiking alpine trails, or sipping coffee in old town Salzburg—you’ll make memories that last a lifetime.
So, if you’re from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, or another eligible country, this is your 2025 chance to work and travel in Austria without needing a job offer or agent. Just you, your passport, and a plan.
