September 29, 2016 / in Immigration News / by admin

Changes to Working Holiday Visa

From 1 January 2017, changes to the Working Holiday Visa program may come into effect that will be beneficial to new working holiday makers and also those already in Australia.

Treasurer Scott Morrison has said in a media statement, the Turnbull Government recognises the important part working holiday makers play in Australia’s $43.4 billion tourism industry and are a key source of labour in industries such as agriculture, horticulture, tourism and hospitality.

The most beneficial points of change for working holiday makers will be: Visa Application Charge reduction

Increase in the age limit

Change to work rights

Tax charges

Visa Application Charge reduction

The Visa Application Charge for a Working Holiday Visa will be reduced from $440 to $390. Saving applicants $50 AUD

Increase in Age Limit

From 1 January 2017, the age limit for a Working Holiday or Work and Holiday Visa may increase from 30 to 35 years old.

Changes to Work Rights

Currently, Working Holiday visa holders cannot work for the same employer for more than 6 months.

From 1 January 2017, a working holiday visa holder may work for the same employer for 12 months, provided the second 6 months is worked at a different premises, in a different region.

Tax Changes

The tax rate on working holiday makers earning less than $37,000 will be reduced from 32.5% to 19%. The usual tax rate will apply to those who earn above $37,000.

Employers will now need to register with the Australian Taxation Office as an employer of working holiday makers for the lower tax rate.

See tax rates released in Scott Morrison’s media statement below:

Working Holiday Visa holders have the opportunity to apply for permanent or long stay visas if they are eligible. Many working holiday makers apply for skilled visas, are sponsored by an employer or are sponsored by an Australian Partner.

To find out if you are eligible to apply a Skilled Visa click here, to discuss your options with one of our registered migration agents click here

We specialise in Employer Sponsored Visas, browse our list of employer sponsored vacancies and apply click here