The Working Holiday visa is the reason most backpackers end up in Australia. It lets you live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months,and if you play your cards right, you can extend it up to three years total.

Here's what you need to know for 2026.

Subclass 417 vs 462: What's the difference?

There are two types of Working Holiday visa:

Subclass 417 (Working Holiday): For passport holders from the UK, France, Germany, Ireland, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and several other countries. This is the more common one.
Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday): For passport holders from the USA, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Argentina, and others. Slightly different requirements (sometimes you need a letter of government support).

Both visas give you the same outcome: 12 months in Australia with the right to work.

Key requirements

You must be 18–35 years old at the time of application (some countries have a 30 cap,check yours).
You need at least $5,000 AUD in savings (they can ask for proof).
You need a return ticket or enough money to buy one.
You must not have previously held the same subclass visa (unless you're applying for a 2nd or 3rd year).
Health insurance is strongly recommended (not technically required, but don't skip it).

How to extend to a 2nd and 3rd year

To apply for a second year, you need to complete 88 days of specified work in a regional area during your first year. This usually means farm work, meat processing, construction, or hospitality in eligible postcodes.

For a third year, you need another 179 days of specified work during your second year.

The regional work requirement is real and enforced. Keep your payslips, ABN records, and employer details,you'll need them when you apply.

Working rules

You can work for any employer for up to 6 months (unless it's in agriculture/hospitality in regional areas, where there's no limit).
You'll need a Tax File Number (TFN),apply online as soon as you arrive, it's free.
You'll need an Australian bank account. Most backpackers go with CommBank or Westpac.

Getting around on a WHV budget

Most of your money will go to rent, food, and transport. Ridesharing instead of buses or flights can save you hundreds of dollars over a year. When you're moving between farm jobs or heading to the next city for work, a $30 rideshare beats a $90 bus ticket every time.

The Working Holiday visa is one of the best ways to see Australia on a real budget. Plan smart, work hard, travel cheap,and make the most of every kilometre.