Australia’s Visa Rebate Scheme for Working Holidaymakers and Students
Australia will waive visa application fees for working holidaymakers (A$495) and international students (A$630) in a bid to enhance the labor market recovery following the pandemic, provided they travel to the country within the upcoming weeks.
Visa Options for Young Travelers
Australia’s working holiday and work and holiday visa schemes are available to applicants from many countries, including the US, UK, Canada, South Korea, Japan, and various European nations. Eligible applicants must be aged between 18 and 30 (or 18 and 35 for Canadian, French, and Irish citizens). These visas allow holders to engage in temporary employment while in Australia to fund their travels and experiences.
Duration and Renewal of Visas
Typically, these visas are valid for one year; however, there are options for extensions in many cases, allowing travelers to enjoy their experiences in Australia for up to two or even three years.
Government Initiatives to Attract Visitors
The Australian government paused these visa schemes during the pandemic; however, it has recently reopened the program amid COVID-related labor shortages. Consequently, to incentivize travel, the government is introducing a visa rebate scheme.
On January 19, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that applicants would not need to pay the A$495 visa application fees if they arrive within the next 12 weeks. They can apply for a refund upon arrival in the country.
Incentives for Students
International students, who must arrive within the next eight weeks to coincide with the start of the new academic year, will receive their A$630 application fee refunded by the government. Details on the refund application process are pending announcement.
Current Visa Holder Statistics
According to Morrison, approximately 23,500 backpackers and 150,000 students currently hold valid visas to travel to Australia.
Invitation to Travelers
Prime Minister Morrison encourages visa holders: “Come on down. You are needed in Australia, and you have your visa. Explore the country, and at the same time, join our workforce, contributing to sectors like agriculture and hospitality.”
Tourism Marketing Efforts
The visa refund initiative is part of a broader Tourism Australia marketing campaign aimed at attracting backpackers and students as they reintegrate into the economy.
Restrictions and Entry Requirements
Presently, Australia welcomes specific visa holders, including working holidaymakers, skilled workers, international students, and family visa holders. Tourists from New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea may also enter. While some states allow fully vaccinated travelers who test negative for COVID-19 to enter, others impose additional restrictions, including quarantine requirements. Therefore, it is advisable to verify the latest entry rules prior to travel.
