May 17, 2026

Oceania

KINTEX 7A Hall Lobby

What is Australian Working Holiday Maker program and how to apply the visa from Korea Republic?

  1. Here’s a clear guide to Australia’s Working Holiday program and how you can apply for the visa from the Republic of Korea.

🇦🇺 What Is the Working Holiday Program in Australia?

  1. The Australian Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program lets young people travel in Australia while working short-term jobs to help fund their stay. It’s designed to promote cultural exchange and give you flexibility to explore the country while earning money. (Immigration and citizenship Website)

🎯 Key Features

  • Stay duration: Up to 12 months from the date you enter Australia. (australia.com)

  • Work rights: You can undertake short-term, casual or part-time work during your stay. (Wikipedia)

  • Study: Allowed up to a limited period (typically up to 4 months). (Wikipedia)

  • Age: Generally 18–30 years old (inclusive). For most nationalities including Korea, the limit is 30. (australia.com)

  • Employers: You usually cannot work for the same employer for more than 6 months unless exceptions apply. (Wikipedia)

  1. There are two main visa types under the program:

  • Working Holiday visa (Subclass 417): For citizens of certain countries including Republic of Korea. (australia.com)

  • Work and Holiday visa (Subclass 462): For citizens of other partner countries with slightly different requirements. (Immigration and citizenship Website)

📌 Optional Extensions

  1. If you complete specified work (often regional, seasonal work), you might be eligible for a second or third Working Holiday visa—extending your time in Australia by another year each time (with conditions). (australia.com)

🇰🇷 Who Can Apply from Korea?

  1. As a Republic of Korea passport holder, you’re eligible for the Working Holiday visa (Subclass 417), which is the standard visa for Korean nationals under this program. (australia.com)

🎓 Basic Eligibility

  1. You generally need to meet these requirements:

  2. Age: 18–30 years old at the time of application. (australia.com)

  3. Passport: Valid Korean passport. (australia.com)

  4. Funds: Show you have enough money to support yourself (commonly around AUD 5,000 or equivalent) and sufficient funds for a return ticket. (australia.com)

  5. No dependent children: You should not be accompanied by children. (Immigration and citizenship Website)

  6. Health and character requirements: You must meet Australia’s health and character standards. (Immigration and citizenship Website)

  7. Note: Some aircraft, agricultural, or regional work can help extend your stay (second/third visa) if you complete specified work. (australia.com)

🛂 How to Apply from Korea

1. Create an ImmiAccount

  1. Go to the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs website and register for an ImmiAccount. This is where you’ll prepare and submit your application online. (australia.com)

  2. 👉 ImmiAccount link: Use the Australian Department of Home Affairs online portal.

2. Prepare Documents

  1. Before applying, gather:

  • Passport biographical page.

  • Proof of funds (bank statements showing sufficient money).

  • Evidence of return ticket or funds for return travel.

  • Health and character documents (if required).

  • Birth certificate or identity documents. (australia.com)

3. Fill Out the Online Application

  1. Within your ImmiAccount:

  • Complete the Working Holiday visa (Subclass 417) application form.

  • Upload required supporting documents.

  • Pay the visa application fee (usually around AUD 635—but check current pricing before applying). (australia.com)

4. Submit and Wait for Outcome

  1. After submission:

  • Australia processes your application (often within a few weeks if documents are complete). (australia.com)

  • You’ll receive notification of the decision in your ImmiAccount (and usually by email).

5. Visa Grant & Travel

  • Once approved, you’ll get a visa grant notice with conditions and how long you have before you must enter Australia. (australia.com)

  • You can then plan your travel and arrival in Australia.

  1. ⚠️ Important: You generally need to apply outside Australia for your first Working Holiday visa. For passport holders from Korea, the application must be lodged in the country of passport issue. (Wikipedia)

📝 Tips & Practical Notes

  • ✔️ Book health insurance before you go—it’s not mandatory but strongly recommended. (australia.com)

  • ✔️ Keep bank statements recent and clear (English if possible). (australia.com)

  • ✔️ Check the Department of Home Affairs website before applying, as requirements and fees can change. (australia.com)

  • ✔️ Work in regional areas might help you qualify for additional visas (second/third year). (australia.com)