Complete guide to the Subclass 462 Work and Holiday visa: eligible countries, the 6-month employer rule, specified work for second and third year extensions, and common jobs for working holiday makers.
The Subclass 462 Work and Holiday visa lets young adults from eligible countries work and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. It is the sibling of the Subclass 417 Working Holiday visa, covering a different set of passport countries, with some extra eligibility requirements but the same work rights once granted.
| Visa type | Temporary, work and holiday |
| Duration | 12 months initially; extendable to second and third year |
| Work rights | Full, but 6 months max with any single employer |
| Age limit | 18–30 (35 for some countries, e.g. France, Canada, Italy, Argentina) |
| Study limit | Up to 4 months study during the visa |
| Second / third year | Requires specified work in regional Australia |
| Approx. base cost | ~A$680 (check current fee) |
Jobs that welcome working holiday makers
Use our filters to narrow by location, salary, and work arrangement.
Eligibility is passport-country specific. As of 2026, countries with 462 agreements include (non-exhaustive):
You cannot work for the same employer for more than 6 months without approval. "Same employer" includes related entities and franchisees. Plan your work blocks: two 6-month roles back to back is common, or shorter stints on farms, hospitality, retail, or tourism seasons.
Specified work in designated regional areas extends your visa. Typical qualifying work:
Can Americans apply for 462?
Yes. US citizens aged 18–30 are eligible for the 462 Work and Holiday visa.
What is the difference between 417 and 462?
Different eligible countries and slightly different requirements. Once granted, work and travel rights are equivalent, including the 6-month employer rule and specified work for extensions.
How many times can I extend 462?
Up to 3 years total. First extension (2nd year) requires 88 days specified work; 3rd year requires 6 months specified work during the 2nd year.
Can I study on a 462?
Yes, up to 4 months during the 12-month visa period.
How long does a 462 take to process?
Most applications are decided in weeks to a few months, but processing depends on the country quota and the time of year. Apply early in the program year to avoid caps.
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Disclaimer: This information is general guidance only and may change at any time without notice. Immigration law and visa conditions are complex and individual circumstances vary. Always verify current requirements at homeaffairs.gov.au. This content does not constitute legal or migration advice. Consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or immigration lawyer for advice tailored to your situation.
