How To Stay In Australia After Your Working Holiday Visa

Alison Condon

February 29th, 2024

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5 minute read

So, you want to stay in Australia after your Working Holiday Visa expires? I can’t say I blame you!

Visitors often find that the Working Holiday Visa just doesn’t give them enough time to explore the breathtaking landscapes, thrilling adventures, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that Aus has to offer. And, even if they have somehow managed to see it all, saying goodbye to beautiful beaches, lively cities, and lush rainforests is sometimes too heartbreaking to bear. That’s why, before their Working Holiday comes to an end, backpackers are curious as to how to stay in Australia for longer.

As tempting as it might be to overstay your welcome in Australia, breaching the conditions of your visa is a bad idea. It could result in being banned from re-entering Australia for at least three years and affect your chances of applying for future visas. It’s definitely not worth it, so let’s keep this all above board, shall we?

Here, we’re going to break down the most common options for backpackers who are hoping to extend their stay Down Under.

Can I Extend My Working Holiday Visa?

Yes! If you have already completed the first year of your Working Holiday Visa, one of the most popular options to get an extended Working Holiday Visa for a second or a third year.

Under a second or third year Working Holiday Visa, you may:

• Travel to and from Australia as many times as you like

• Work in Australia (maximum of 6 months with one employer)

• Study for up to 4 months

But, there are some requirements you’ll have to meet to be eligible for a new Working Holiday Visa to stay in Australia. That includes completing three months of specified work during your first year, or six months of specified work during your second year. Unless you’re a British passport holder, of course!

Check out our handy second WHV guide and third year WHV guide for more detailed information on extending your working holiday visa in Australia.

Can I Get Sponsored To Work In Australia?

It’s certainly possible! There are a number of skilled work visas that allow approved Australian businesses to sponsor skilled workers to live and work in Australia, either temporarily or permanently, though they’re much more exclusive than a typical Working Holiday Visa. If, during your Working Holiday Visa, you found a job where you’re highly trained or skilled, there’s a chance the company might be interested in keeping you a little longer. 

One of the most common skilled work visas available to Working Holiday Visa holders seeking sponsorship is the Temporary Skill Shortage Subclass Visa (subclass 482).

This visa allows a nominated skilled worker to live and work in Australia for two to four years.

To be eligible for a Temporary Skill Shortage Subclass Visa (subclass 482), you must meet these requirements:

• Be nominated for a skilled job role by an approved sponsor

• Have the right skills to do said job

• Meet relevant English language requirements

You can find out more about the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa and other skilled work visas on the Australian Government’s Immigration website.

Can I Apply For A Tourist Visa After My Working Holiday?

Returning to Australia on a Tourist Visa, also known as an Electronic Travel Authority Visa, is a short-term option after your Working Holiday Visa expires - but you won’t be able to apply for it right away. 

A Tourist Visa, which allows you to stay for up to 3 months, is probably the most straightforward and accessible type of visa for entering and exploring Australia. It’s perfect if you’re interested in a short term visit to squeeze in one more Aussie adventure. Just remember, you can’t work on a Tourist Visa - holidays only! The best way to make the most of your time on a Tourist Visa is booking an East Coast Itinerary, which will take you through all of the must-see spots and activities in a time frame that suits you.

If you have just completed your Working Holiday Visa, you’re going to have to wait a second before you try and secure a Tourist Visa. You can only apply for a Tourist Visa from outside of Australia, so you’ll need to leave for at least a little while before you can return as a holidaymaker. In some instances, you might also be asked to provide evidence that you’ll exit Australia before the Tourist Visa expires. 

You can learn more about travelling Australia on a tourist visa with this handy backpacker's guide.

Can I Apply For A Student Visa?

If you are up for furthering your education, a Student Visa is another way to stay longer in Australia. 

To qualify for a Student Visa, you must:

• Be enrolled in a full-time course at a recognised educational institution

• Pay $710 AUD, unless exempt

It’s important to note that, although a Student Visa buys you more time Down Under - lasting for up to five years in line with your course enrollment - it does limit your ability to travel Australia since you’ll need to be studying full-time.

Make the most of your stay in Australia

After spending some time in Australia, it’s no wonder so many people want to extend their stay by any means possible. Whether your heart lies was captured by its charming beach towns or its sparkling major cities, its unique wildlife or its loveable locals, Australia has something for everyone.

The best advice I could give to anyone who is worried about their time in Australia running out is to seize the day and make the most of whatever time you have left. Draw up your bucket list and get going. There’s so much waiting to be discovered!

Feel free to reach out to our friendly travel experts to make sure you get every last ounce of adventure out of your time in Australia!

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