The first Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) costs $840 AUD. If you’re eligible for a second or third Working Holiday Visa, each application costs $1,000 AUD.
If you are planning to live, work, and travel in Australia, there are a few important changes you should know before applying.
As of 1 July 2026, the Australian Government has increased both the national minimum wage and the cost of the Working Holiday Visa. While the visa now costs more than before, Australia’s higher wages continue to make it one of the most rewarding destinations for Canadians looking to fund their travels abroad.
It is also worth planning. The average processing time for an Australian Working Holiday Visa is now around 38 days (about 1 month 1 week), so we recommend applying well in advance.
In short: Australia’s minimum wage has increased to $26.44 AUD/hour (or $33.05 AUD/hour for most casual workers), while the first Working Holiday Visa now costs $840 AUD.
Australia already has one of the highest minimum wages in the world, and it is just increased again.
| Employment Type | Minimum Wage (from July 1, 2026) |
|---|---|
| Permanent Employee | AUD $26.44/hour |
| Casual Employee | AUD $33.05/hour |
Casual employment is the most common type of work for Working Holiday Visa holders, which means many travellers earn more than $33 AUD per hour before penalty rates; overtime, or weekend pay are added.
Whether you are working in hospitality, tourism, retail, construction, or agriculture, Australia’s wages make it much easier to fund your travels while enjoying everything the country has to offer.
Alongside the wage increase, the Australian Government has also raised the cost of Working Holiday Visas from 1 July 2026.
The new fees are:
| Visa | Fee |
|---|---|
| First Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) | AUD $840 |
| Second Working Holiday Visa | AUD $1,000 |
| Third Working Holiday Visa | AUD $1,000 |
At Australia’s casual minimum wage, many Working Holiday participants can earn back the cost of their first visa in approximately 26 hours of work before tax (four standard working days).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Casual Wage | AUD $33.05/hour |
| Visa Validity | Up to 12 months |
| Maximum Stay | Up to 3 years (if eligible) |
| Processing Time | Around 38 days |
| Popular Industries | Hospitality, tourism, agriculture, retail, and construction |
Absolutely! Although the upfront cost of an Australian Working Holiday Visa has increased, Australia’s higher wages continue to make it one of the best-value Working Holiday destinations for Canadians.
Beyond the financial benefits, an Australian Working Holiday Visa gives you the opportunity to live abroad, gain international work experience, travel across one of the world’s most diverse countries, and build skills that can benefit your future career.
Whether you are spending your weekends exploring the Great Barrier Reef, road-tripping along the coast, or meeting people from around the world, the experience goes far beyond earning a paycheck.
If you are considering a Working Holiday in Australia, the key is to plan ahead. With average visa processing times now around 38 days, applying early can help ensure you’re ready to start your adventure when the time is right.
For Canadians looking to combine work, travel, and personal growth, Australia remains one of the best Working Holiday destinations in the world.
Applying for your visa is only the beginning. From understanding eligibility and preparing your application to finding work and getting ready for departure, we’re here to support you throughout your Working Holiday journey.
Let our team help you make the most of your Australian adventure!
The first Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417) costs $840 AUD. If you’re eligible for a second or third Working Holiday Visa, each application costs $1,000 AUD.
As of 1 July 2026, Australia’s national minimum wage is $26.44 AUD per hour for permanent employees and $33.05 AUD per hour for casual employees.
The average processing time is around 38 days, although individual applications may take more or less depending on your circumstances.
Casual employees receive a casual loading because they don’t receive benefits like paid annual leave or sick leave.
Yes. Canadians who meet Australia’s specified work requirements may be eligible to apply for a second and even a third Working Holiday Visa, allowing them to stay for up to three years.
Australia remains one of the most popular Working Holiday destinations thanks to its competitive wages, strong job market, warm climate, and opportunities to travel while working.
Since the average processing time is around 38 days, it’s best to apply several weeks before your planned departure date. Applying early also gives you more time to organize flights, accommodation, and job opportunities before arriving in Australia.
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