WORKING HOLIDAY · VISA UPDATES
By JobFlatmate · 15 November 2026 · 5-minute read
Australia’s proposed changes to working holiday visas are being reconsidered, leaving many backpackers wondering what will happen to second and third year visa applications.
The Australian Government previously announced plans to introduce a ballot system for working holiday makers who want to stay in Australia beyond their first year. The government is now reviewing aspects of the proposal following concerns from businesses that rely on backpackers, particularly in regional areas.
The proposed changes have not been cancelled, and revised arrangements have not yet been confirmed. Check official updates before making decisions about your visa or regional work.
What changes were originally announced?
In September 2026, the Australian Government announced plans to introduce a ballot for second and third year working holiday visas. Under the original proposal, applicants would still need to complete the required regional work to qualify for the ballot. Completing that work would not guarantee selection.
The government initially proposed limits of 45,000 second year places and 5,000 third year places. Read the original government announcement.
Why is the government reconsidering the changes?
Farmers and businesses in tourism and hospitality have raised concerns that tighter visa limits could make it harder to find workers, particularly outside major cities. The government has indicated that it is open to adjusting implementation while maintaining its broader migration targets.
Options reported to be under consideration include delaying the proposed ballot and changing the number of third year visa places. Longer regional work requirements have also been discussed. These are possibilities, not confirmed new rules. The final requirements and commencement date may differ.
Has the second and third year visa ballot started?
The proposed ballot for second and third year visas is separate from the existing ballot for certain first Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462) applicants. Current Home Affairs guidance describes the existing first-year process for China, India and Vietnam and says it does not apply to second or third 462 visas or subclass 417 visas. Check official updates for the proposed new arrangements.
What are the current second and third year requirements?
Current Home Affairs guidance for the Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) generally requires three months of eligible specified work for a second year and six months for a third year. Other conditions and exceptions apply. Eligible UK passport holders can currently apply for a third subclass 417 visa without the six-month specified work requirement.
If you hold a Work and Holiday visa (subclass 462), check the requirements for your own visa. Not every job in a regional area counts: confirm the eligible work and location before accepting a position.
What about UK working holiday makers?
The government is also considering ways to reduce the number of working holiday makers arriving from the United Kingdom. Under current arrangements, eligible UK passport holders can apply for second and third Working Holiday visas without the specified work requirements that apply to many other applicants. Discussions about future arrangements continue; no specific new requirement should be assumed until officially confirmed.
What should working holiday makers do now?
- Check your visa expiry date and conditions. Review your grant letter or use VEVO.
- Confirm that your work is eligible. Check the industry, location and requirements for your visa subclass on the Home Affairs website.
- Keep your records. Save payslips, your employment agreement and documents showing when and where you worked.
- Allow time for processing. Home Affairs expects an average of around three months for most Working Holiday Maker applications; individual times vary. It advises waiting for a grant before making travel, work or study commitments.
- Follow official updates. See Working Holiday Maker latest news and your visa subclass page.
Frequently asked questions
Has the working holiday visa ballot been cancelled?
No cancellation has been confirmed. The government is reconsidering aspects of the proposed ballot for second and third year visas.
Will I still need to complete 88 days of regional work?
The original proposal retained the regional work requirement for a second year. Possible changes have since been discussed, but revised rules have not been confirmed. Check the specified work requirements for your visa subclass.
Is the third year working holiday visa being removed?
The government has not announced its removal. The original proposal included a ballot and a limit on places; aspects are now being reviewed.
Does every farm or regional job count towards a visa extension?
No. The job must meet the specified work requirements for your subclass, including the relevant industry and location criteria.
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This article provides general information only and is not migration advice. Visa requirements can change; check the latest information from the Department of Home Affairs before making a decision.