Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa Arrangement with China

Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa Arrangement with China

Starting from 21 September 2016, the Australian Government reached an agreement with People’s Republic of China to expand eligibility for the Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462) to Chinese Nationals. This enables young, educated Chinese citizens to be able to travel to Australia for work, study or holidaying purposes.

This new addition to the SC 462 Visa programme follows the recent enacted China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA), and is aimed at building on the growing international relationship between both countries. Australia and China are set to jointly benefit from the new changes, which are intended to encourage cultural exchange, and strengthen the connection between nations.

This is also a great platform for overseas visitors to experience living in Australia for an extended period of time (up to 12 months). The ability to work also means that visa holders can experience the Australian work culture and meet potential employers who might be willing to offer a permanent position if the visa holder impresses. The wages from work done will also allow travelers to see more of Australia during the 12 months of stay. At the moment the Australian Government has recently allocated 1,500 places in the Working and Holiday Visa program are going to be open for application, with more places to be released in further stages until the programme reaches its annual cap of 5,000 places.

In addition, the visa allows the holder to:

·         stay in Australia for 12 months from their date of first arrival;

·         work for the 12 month duration of their stay, but for no longer than six months with any one employer; and

·         study for up to four months.

General eligibility requirements for Chinese Work and Holiday visa applicants are:

·         hold a valid Chinese passport;

·         are at least 18 but have not turned 31 years of age at the time an application is lodged;

·         will not be with a dependent child while in Australia;

·         have enough money for support on a working holiday (at least AUD $5000);

·         have enough money to buy a return or onward travel ticket at the end of your stay in Australia;

·         have not previously entered Australia on a Working Holiday visa (subclass 417);

·         hold tertiary qualifications, or have successfully completed at least two years of undergraduate university study;

·         have functional English (equivalent to IELTS 4.5 or higher);

·         meet character and health requirements; and

·         are a genuine visitor.