Your Guide to the Irish Working Holiday Visa in Australia 2025-2026
Exploring the Working Holiday Visa for Irish Citizens
Every year, many young adults from the Republic of Ireland travel to Australia on a Working Holiday Visa, hoping for an unforgettable experience. If you’re aged between 18 and 35 and have a valid Irish passport, this visa could be your ticket to a fantastic adventure.
While Australia is a popular choice, Irish travellers often consider options in New Zealand and Canada as well. For a complete list of countries with working holiday agreements with Ireland, check out the Department of Foreign Affairs website.
What is the Working Holiday Visa?
The Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) allows Irish citizens to live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months. If you engage in specific work in designated regions, you can apply for a second and even a third Working Holiday Visa, potentially extending your stay to three years. Each application must meet specific eligibility criteria.
This visa functions like an open work permit, giving you the freedom to choose your employer. However, you cannot work for the same employer for more than six months without permission from the Department of Home Affairs.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Working Holiday Visa, you must:
- Be aged 18 to 35 (inclusive)
- Hold a valid Irish passport
You also need to:
- Apply online through your ImmiAccount
- Be outside Australia when applying for your first visa
Application Overview
Applying for this visa is straightforward and can be done online. Here’s a quick guide:
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least 12 months from your planned arrival in Australia.
- Create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Complete Form 417 online.
- Upload required documents, including your passport and proof of sufficient funds.
- Pay the visa fee of AU$670 using a credit or debit card.
- Wait for confirmation, as processing times can vary from 1 to 35 days.
You must enter Australia within 12 months of your visa approval to activate it.
Funds and Financial Proof
You will need to show you have access to at least AU$5,000 in savings, plus enough for a return or onward flight, unless already booked. A recent bank statement usually suffices.
What is Specified Work?
To be eligible for a second or third Working Holiday Visa, you must complete at least 88 days of specified work in regional Australia. Acceptable work includes:
- Plant and animal cultivation (e.g., fruit picking, crop harvesting)
- Fishing and pearling
- Mining
- Construction
- Bushfire recovery work
Healthcare and Insurance
Irish citizens can access Medicare under a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Australia. It’s advised to also purchase travel or health insurance for additional coverage.
Living Costs and Budgeting
Understanding living costs is vital. On average, expect to pay:
- Accommodation: AU$250–350 per week
- Food: AU$100 per week
- Public transport: AU$40–60 per week
Your AU$5,000 should cover your first month or two while you search for work.
Perks for Irish Citizens
Irish nationals enjoy special benefits, including:
- No annual cap on Working Holiday Visas for Irish applicants
- Year-round application availability
- Multiple re-entries allowed during the visa period
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Exceeding the six-month limit with one employer without permission
- Failing to complete necessary health checks
- Missing the entry window after visa approval
What do you think?
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