Work your way around Australia, funding your travels as you go, for up to 12 months! 
You’ll meet more of the locals, have fun with fellow travelers, and get to see parts of Australia that you might not normally visit.  From mustering on an Outback cattle station to teaching people to surf, the possibilities are endless.  STA Travel can help you get settled, find a job, and show you all that Australia has to offer!

Want more info about these exciting opportunities and all of the help you'll have getting settled Down Under? [more info>>]

What is the purpose of the Work and Holiday visa?
The Work and Holiday visa programme provides opportunities for young people for social and cultural exchange and promotes mutual understanding between Australia and other nations. The USA is the latest country to enter Australia’s programme. Australia is the first country with which the United States has entered into a Work and Holiday visa arrangement.

What is the duration of the visa and can it be renewed?
The Work and Holiday visa allows a stay of up to 12 months in Australia.

What are the eligibility requirements for the visa?
US citizens wishing to come to Australia must:

 • be aged 18 to 30 inclusive

• be outside of Australia when they apply for and are granted the visa

• show evidence that they are enrolled in a post secondary course of study or hold post secondary qualifications

• have a return ticket or sufficient funds for a return or onward fare as well as sufficient funds for the first part of their stay, and

• meet health and character requirements.

What is the definition of “student” under the arrangement?
The definition of “student” is a person who is currently studying or deferred, or a person who has graduated from a post-secondary institution within the previous 12 months. Australia will include all graduates of post secondary courses.

What opportunities are there for young people who are not post secondary students or do not have a post secondary qualification?
Young US citizens may be eligible under the Youth from the US Programme, which is a four month work programme for people sponsored under this arrangement.

Can visa holders work?
US citizens holding a Work and Holiday visa in Australia can work for each employer for up to six months and are able to work for the entire 12 months of the visa. There are no restrictions on the type of work that may be undertaken.

Can visa holders study?
US citizens holding a visa in Australia can study for up to four months. There is no restriction on the type of study.

Where do I apply for this visa?
US citizens can either apply for the visa over the internet or by completing an application form and lodging it with the nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate. Application forms will be available on the internet and from Australian Embassies from the date the arrangement commences.

Where can I find further information on the programme?
US citizens can find further information about travelling to Australia at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s website. See www.immi.gov.au/visitors/working-holiday/visa-options.htm

As well as the chance to benefit from the excellent courses that are offered at Australia's outstanding educational institutes, students who choose to study in Australia also have enormous opportunities to expand their horizons with extra-curricular activities. All of Australia's major cities have national parks in close proximity, which offer the chance to spend a few hours - or even a few days - in a superb natural environment.

Click here for more information on studying in Australia. 

The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is the most widely accepted proof of international student identification offering discounts only available to ISIC holders!