Australian work and holiday visa for Argentinians: Complete guide

The Australia Work and Holiday Visa for Argentinians is the gateway to a transformative experience: Living, working, and exploring this amazing country fora year. This programme, designed for young people aged 18 to 30, not only allows you to fund your stay in Australia through temporary jobs but also enables you to immerse yourself in a vibrant and diverse culture. Moreover, it offers the opportunity to study for up to four months, further enriching your personal and professional experience.

For Argentinians, this visa represents a unique opportunity for growth and adventure. In fact, more and more young people are embracing the chance to discover the wonders and high quality of life of this distant country. With an annual quota of 3,400 spots, the programme is currently open, according to the Australian Department of Home Affairs. However, due to high demand, it is essential to stay alert to the dates and requirements to avoid missing out.

Would you like to know how to apply and what you need to start this adventure? Below, we guide you step by step so you can plan your trip without any hassle.

What Work and Holiday Visas does Australia offer for Argentinians?

Australia offers two types of visas that allow young foreigners to combine tourism with temporary employment: The Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) and the Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462). Although their names are similar, they differ in requirements and eligible countries.

For Argentinian citizens, the available option is the Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462). This visa is designed for young people aged 18 to 30 who want to explore Australia while funding their stay through temporary jobs. In addition to allowing you to work, it offers the possibility of studying for up to four months and entering and leaving the country multiple times during its validity. Without a doubt, it is an amazing opportunity to discover this magnificent country while earning money. In fact, many young people travel to Australia to work, save, and return to Argentina with some dollars in their pockets.

Meanwhile, the subclass 417 visa is intended for citizens of countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Germany, and is not available for Argentinians. Therefore, if you are Argentinian and are considering a work and holiday experience in Australia, subclass 462 is the right path.

From now on, we will explain in detail the requirements, the application process, and useful tips to make the most of this opportunity.

What are the benefits and features of the Work and Holiday Visa Australia for Argentinians?

The Work and Holiday Visa Australia (subclass 462) for Argentinians is much more than just a work permit. It is the key to a unique experience that combines adventure, learning, and personal growth. But what exactly does this special permit allow? Let’s take a look.

On one hand, it allows you to stay in Australia for up to 12 months, with the freedom to enter and leave the country as many times as you wish during this period. This flexibility is ideal if you are thinking about exploring not only Australia but also nearby destinations such as New Zealand, Indonesia, or Thailand.

Another great benefit is the possibility of working legally during your stay. You can work in various sectors such as hospitality, tourism, agriculture, or even seasonal events. This will not only help fund your trip but also provide you with international experience for your CV, improve your English, and expand your network of contacts.

But that’s not all. With this visa, you can also study for up to four months, which is an excellent opportunity to take an English course, technical training, or any short course that interests you.

Additionally, if you meet certain conditions, you could extend your visa for a second or even a third year, working in specific sectors and areas of the country. This would allow you to extend your Australian adventure longer than you originally imagined.

In short, the Work and Holiday Visa Australia not only opens the door to exploring the country from top to bottom but also offers a practical way to finance your trip, get trained, and live an unforgettable multicultural experience.

Who is the Work and Holiday Visa Australia aimed at?

The Work and Holiday Visa Australia is designed for a very specific type of traveller. If you identify with any of these descriptions, this visa is likely for you:

• Young people looking for an international experience: It is perfect for those aged 18 to 30 who want to step out of their comfort zone. If you’re at a stage in your life where you want to gain experiences, meet new people, and live in another country, this visa is the perfect excuse.
• People who want to fund their trip by working: Not all Argentinians have the savings to spend a year travelling. Therefore, this visa is designed for those who dream of travelling across Australia but also need to work to cover their expenses during their stay.
• Travellers who want to improve their English skills: Living in Australia offers total linguistic immersion. If your goal is to improve the language while living real work and daily life situations, this visa will allow you to do so.
• Adventure and nature lovers: Australia has endless beaches, deserts, rainforests, and vibrant cities. This visa is perfect for those who dream of travelling flexibly, improvising routes, and discovering unique landscapes.
• People who want to enhance their CV with international work experience: Working in another country adds tremendous value to your professional profile. If you’re thinking of boosting your CV, taking advantage of this visa could be a great decision.
• People interested in combining study and work abroad: The visa allows you to study for up to four months. Therefore, it is an excellent option for those who want to take an English course or short training while working and travelling.

What are the requirements to apply for the Work and Holiday Visa Australia?

If you are Argentinian and are thinking about applying for the Work and Holiday Visa Australia, the first thing you need to do is get up to date with the requirements and necessary documentation. It is key to prepare your application in advance and pay attention to detail, as this will increase your chances of success. If you need additional help or have specific doubts, be sure to consult official sources or seek specialised advice. By the way, we also recommend reading our article about requirements for travelling to Australia from Argentina, which complements the information in this guide.

Below, we present a step-by-step guide so you can prepare your application effectively.

1. Age and valid passport

First, you will need to have a valid Argentinian passport, meaning it must have a minimum validity of six months from the estimated date of travel. It is also important that you are not in Australia when applying for the visa.

Regarding age, you must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of submitting your application. This means you can apply up to one day before turning 31. If you turn 31 during the approval process or when entering Australia, that’s not a problem.

2. Functional English level

To apply for the Work and Holiday Visa Australia, you must demonstrate a functional level of English by presenting the results of an official exam taken no more than 12 months before applying. Accepted exams include IELTS (minimum 4.5 in each component), TOEFL iBT (minimum 32 points), PTE Academic (minimum 30 points), or Cambridge English Advanced (minimum 147 points).

It is important that the results are from in-person exams, as online exams are not accepted.

3. Educational requirements

Another condition is having successfully completed at least two years of undergraduate studies or having a higher education diploma. This means you must have completed and passed subjects from a recognised university or higher education programme.

4. Sufficient financial funds

This is one of the most important requirements. As an Argentinian citizen, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover the initial expenses of your stay in Australia. The minimum required amount is AUD 5,000, which is approximately ARS 3,880,000. If you do not have a return ticket, you will need to show additional funds to cover that expense.

You can use the following to demonstrate your financial situation:

• Bank statement: It must be in your name, recent, and show the available balance clearly.
• Bank letter: In some cases, a signed and stamped letter from the bank certifying the available funds can be provided.
• Third-party funds: If the funds come from someone else (e.g., a family member), you will need to present a financial support letter signed by that person, along with a copy of their ID and their bank statement.

Note that photos of cash or screenshots of online banking are not accepted as valid evidence.

5. Personal documentation

In addition to your valid Argentinian passport, you will need to submit the following documents:

• Birth certificate: It must show both parents’ names.
• Passport-sized photograph: 4×6 cm, white background.
• National Identity Document (DNI): Copy of both the front and back.
• Educational certificates: Degrees or certificates proving the required higher education or university studies.
• Criminal record certificate: Issued by the relevant authority in Argentina.

Important! Any documents that are not in English must be accompanied by an official translation.

6. Health insurance for Australia

Although it is not a mandatory requirement, it is recommended to have an appropriate health insurance that covers the entire duration of your stay in Australia. This is important as you will not be covered by the Australian healthcare system, and facing medical expenses out of your own pocket can be quite a headache.

7. Online application

If you have all these documents, you can move on to the next step: submit your visa application through the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website. To do this, you will need to create an account in ImmiAccount, complete the relevant form, and attach all the required documents. The visa fee is AUD 635 (ARS 493,000) and must be paid when submitting the application. 

The processing time for the visa can vary, but it generally takes between 14 and 79 days. Therefore, we reiterate what we mentioned at the beginning: It is important to submit all the complete and correct documentation on time to avoid delays.

What are the steps to obtain the Work and Holiday Visa Australia?

Now that you know the requirements and necessary documentation, it’s time to take action. Obtaining the Work and Holiday Visa Australia (subclass 462) is not complicated, but it does require organisation and attention to every detail of the process.

Each of the steps outlined below will bring you closer to your goal of travelling, working, and exploring Australia for a year. From preparing your documents to following up on your application, we explain everything here to ensure you don’t get lost in the process.

1. Gather all the necessary documentation

The first thing you need to do is start gathering all the documents mentioned in the previous section. Don’t underestimate this step, as many applications are rejected due to incomplete or poorly presented documentation. Also, remember that if any of these documents are in Spanish, they must be accompanied by an official translation into English by certified translators in Argentina.

Additionally, we recommend scanning all documents in good resolution. Since the application is online, you will need to upload the files in PDF or JPG format.

2. Create your ImmiAccount

Australia manages all visa applications through its official platform called ImmiAccount. Therefore, the next step is to visit the official website and create a personal account. The process is quick: All you need is a valid email address and to set a secure password.

Once you’re logged in, select the form for the Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462). The system will guide you through each section: Personal data, passport, education, English level, financial funds, and others. Don’t forget to carefully review everything before submitting. A mistake could lead to delays or, worse, rejection of your visa.

3. Pay the application fee

Once you’ve completed the online form and uploaded all the documents, the next step is to pay the application fee. The current fee is AUD 635 (about ARS 493,000) and can be paid directly from your ImmiAccount via:

• International credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express).
• PayPal (in some cases).

The system will calculate the exact amount in Argentine pesos based on the conversion of the day if you pay with a local card. Keep in mind that some banks charge fees for international purchases, so check your card’s terms and conditions.

4. Complete the medical exam (if required)

Not all applicants must complete a medical exam, but the Department of Home Affairs may request it after reviewing your initial application. If required, you will receive a notification within your ImmiAccount instructing you to complete a Health Examination.

The exam must be conducted at an authorised centre in Argentina, specifically at the Clínica del Viajero Internacional in Buenos Aires (located at Av. International Traveler Clinic (on Av. Córdoba 1871). The cost of the exam ranges between $100 and $300 (€93 – 278), depending on the required tests (X-rays, blood tests, etc.). Once the exam is completed, the centre will send the results directly to the Australian immigration authorities.

Yes, it can be a hassle and expensive, but if requested, you’ll have no choice but to complete it.

5. Complete the biometric data collection

In most cases, after submitting your online application, you will receive an email instructing you to complete the biometric data collection (fingerprints and digital photo). This process is done at the Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC) in Buenos Aires (located at Av. Santa Fe 936, Floor 1), managed by VFS Global. To schedule your appointment, you need to visit the official VFS Australia Argentina website.

It is important that you bring the biometric instruction letter you receive from ImmiAccount and your passport. The approximate cost of the service is $48 (€45).

6. Track the status of your application

Once you’ve completed all the previous steps, you’ll just need to wait. The tracking of your visa is done exclusively through ImmiAccount, where you can see updates on your case:

• Received: Application received.
• Assessment in progress: Your visa is being evaluated.
• Finalized: A decision has been made.

The processing time ranges from 14 to 79 days, although it can be extended during periods of high demand. We recommend checking your account at least once a week and staying alert for any new requests for documents or additional tests.

7. Receive the visa grant notification

If everything goes well, the long-awaited notification that your visa has been granted will arrive! You’re now closer to living your work and holiday adventure in Australia. The approval document will include your Visa Grant Number, validity date, and specific visa conditions.

You won’t receive a physical visa in your passport, as the Australian immigration system is electronic. Upon arrival in Australia, immigration control will verify your visa status directly in their system. With this, you will have completed the entire process. Now, get ready to pack your backpack, book your flight, and start dreaming of your Work and Holiday year in Australia!

How to have internet during your Work and Holiday in Australia?

We know that arriving in a new country and being disconnected is not the best way to start your adventure. You’ll need internet from the first minute: To find your accommodation, contact your new flatmates, look for a job, or simply let your family know you arrived safely.

An excellent solution for this is the Holafly eSIM for Australia, which gives you unlimited data for just $6.90 (€4.50) per day (the price decreases as you add more days). You don’t need to change your number or search for a physical SIM: You can install it before you travel or as soon as you land, and you’re good to go.

Both options are compatible with most current smartphones and activate in minutes. Whether you’re looking for internet for just a few days or for your entire stay, Holafly will keep you connected and stress-free.

Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 160 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍

What is the cost of living this work experience in Australia?

We’ve already mentioned some costs you’ll need to keep in mind for your Work and Holiday Australia experience, but now let’s dive deeper. As an Argentinian, you probably know that travelling abroad (especially to a faraway country like Australia) can involve a significant financial investment. Don’t worry, though, as living this experience is possible with good planning and a few months of savings.

Keep in mind that, while the visa fee might seem like the main expense at first glance, there are other items you should consider in your budget. If you’re a young Argentinian looking to live an international experience without financial surprises, make sure to take note of all the costs associated with the Work and Holiday Australia Visa:

• Visa cost: The official price of the Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462) for Argentinians is AUD 635 (ARS 493,000). This amount is paid online when submitting your application through ImmiAccount.
• Official translation costs: All documents that are not originally in English (such as your DNI, birth certificate, or study certificate) must be accompanied by an official translation into English. This could cost between $20 – 40 (€18 – 37), depending on the length. If you need to translate three or four documents, expect to spend between ARS 95,000 – 178,000 ($80 – 150 (€74 – 139)) in total.
• English exam: To prove your functional English level, you will need to present an official certificate, which will, of course, incur an additional cost. For example, in Argentina, an exam like IELTS costs between ARS 260,000 – 295,000 ($220 – 250 (€204 – 232)). Prices may vary depending on the city and centre where you take the exam.
• Criminal record certificate: It is processed at the National Criminal Record Registry and costs between ARS 1,000-5,000, depending on the chosen processing option (standard or urgent).
• Biometric data collection: After submitting your application, you will likely be required to undergo biometric data collection (photo and fingerprints) at the Australian Visa Application Centre in Buenos Aires (VFS Global). This costs around ARS 57,000 ($48 (€45)), plus any service charges if applicable.
• Medical exam: Not all applicants need to do this, but if requested, the mandatory medical exam is done at authorised centres approved by the Australian embassy, such as the Clínica del Viajero Internacional in Buenos Aires. The cost can range from ARS 118,400 – 355,190 ($100 – $300 (€93 – €278)), depending on the tests required.
• Required financial funds: Australia requires you to show that you have at least AUD 5,000 (ARS 3,880,000) to support yourself during your stay. If you don’t have a return ticket, it is recommended to have additional funds (at least AUD 1,000 – 1,500). This is not a direct expense but a sum you must have available and verifiable in your bank account.
• Total estimated cost for the entire process: Between ARS 1,420,700 – 1,775,900 ($1,200 – $1,500 (€1,116 – €1,395)), depending on each case. This does not include the money you need to show as available funds or other additional expenses such as passport issuance or renewal, flight tickets, or travel insurance.

Yes, the expenses can add up. But now that you have a clear overview, you can start planning your budget for this amazing Work and Holiday experience in Australia.

Work and Holiday Australia: Frequently Asked Questions

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