The DIAC has recently announced that Australia will begin talks with the governments of the Czech Republic, Hungary, Israel, Latvia, Poland, and the Slovak Republic on establishing reciprocal work and holiday visa arrangements.
Once implemented:
- The arrangements would apply to those who are aged between 18 and 30.
- The arrangements would allow young Australians and citizens of the partner countries to enjoy an extended holiday in the guest country.
- Participants would be able to stay for up to 12 months and engage in short-term work and study during that time.
- Each arrangement would have an annual cap on visa grant numbers.
The work and holiday visa differs from a working holiday visa as it requires applicants to have the support of their government, hold or be studying towards tertiary qualifications and to speak functional English.
On the successful conclusion of negotiations with each country, they would join Australia’s existing work and holiday arrangement partners: Argentina, Bangladesh, Chile, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Thailand, Turkey and the United States.