Australia job seeker visa: how it works

What is the Australian Job Seeker Visa?

Australia offers several visa options for young people who want to work temporarily. The most common is the Working Holiday Visa, designed for people aged 18–30 (sometimes up to 35, depending on your country). It lets you live, work, and travel in Australia for up to one or three years.

There's also the Temporary Skill Shortage visa, which is for skilled workers sponsored by an Australian employer. This visa lets you work in a specific role for a set period.

Who Can Apply?

For working holiday options:

• You must be between 18 and 30 years old (some countries have higher age limits)
• You must be a citizen of a country with a working holiday agreement with Australia
• You need a valid passport
• You must meet health and character requirements

For skilled migration visas, you typically need:

• A job offer from an Australian employer
• Relevant qualifications or work experience in your field
• English language skills

How the Application Works

The process is usually straightforward:

• Check your eligibility on the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website
• Gather documents like your passport, proof of funds, and health records
• Pay the visa fee (amounts vary by visa type)
• Submit your application online through the official portal
• Wait for a decision (processing times vary)
• Receive your visa approval via email

Most applications are processed online, making it convenient to apply from anywhere.

What You Can and Cannot Do

You can:

• Work for any employer or multiple employers
• Travel in and out of Australia
• Study part-time courses
• Live anywhere in Australia

You cannot:

• Work for longer than allowed by your visa conditions
• Stay after your visa expires without applying for an extension
• Engage in work not permitted under your visa type

Important Things to Know

Before you apply, understand:

• Your visa has an expiration date. Plan ahead if you want to extend or transition to another visa.
• Employment laws still apply. You must follow Australian workplace rules, minimum wage requirements, and tax obligations.
• Health insurance is essential. Ensure you have adequate coverage for your time in Australia.
• Taxes are mandatory. Most workers must register for a Tax File Number and pay income tax.

Next Steps

Start by visiting the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website to confirm current eligibility and requirements. Check which visa option fits your situation best. Gather your documents early, and allow extra time for processing.

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.