VisaChief 417 vs 462: which Australian visa is right for you?
Both are working holiday visas for young travellers, but eligible countries, the education requirement and the type of work that extends them differ.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Working Holiday visa (417) | Work and Holiday visa (462) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary (12 months) | Temporary (12 months) |
| Who it's for | Young people from eligible Working Holiday Maker countries who want to holiday and work in Australia short-term. | Young people from eligible Work and Holiday countries (often with extra requirements like education and a letter of support). |
| Government cost | ~$680 | ~$680 |
| Processing time | ~days to a few weeks | ~days to a few weeks |
| Length of stay | 12 months, extendable to a 2nd/3rd year with specified work | 12 months, extendable to a 2nd/3rd year with specified work |
| Where to apply | Onshore or offshore | Onshore or offshore |
| Work rights | Yes (limited time per employer) | Yes (limited time per employer) |
| Pathway to PR | No - but specified regional work can unlock a 2nd or 3rd year. | No - but specified work can unlock a 2nd or 3rd year. |
Which is right for you?
Working Holiday visa (417)
Young people from eligible Working Holiday Maker countries who want to holiday and work in Australia short-term.
Full 417 guide →Work and Holiday visa (462)
Young people from eligible Work and Holiday countries (often with extra requirements like education and a letter of support).
Full 462 guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, 417 or 462?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Working Holiday visa (417) is the lowest at ~$680. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
What's the main difference between 417 and 462?
Working Holiday visa (417) is for young people from eligible Working Holiday Maker countries who want to holiday and work in Australia short-term. Work and Holiday visa (462) is for young people from eligible Work and Holiday countries (often with extra requirements like education and a letter of support).