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Migration (Arrangements for Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday) Visa) Instrument 2026

🇦🇺 AustraliaWork Permits1 recorded versionLast change 30 Jun 2026
ConfidenceVery high · 100%

Current rules

From 1 July 2026, Subclass 462 applications are governed by the new LIN 26/072 instrument. Applicants generally use Form 1208 (Internet) to apply online. If the Department gives an applicant a written notice allowing another application method, the applicant can follow the instructions in that notice. The broader 2026 amendments also moved the age criterion from the visa grant provisions to the application provisions.

Overview

Australia has published a new legislative instrument, 'Migration (Arrangements for Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday) Visa) Instrument 2026', which will become effective on 30 June 2026. This instrument outlines the specific conditions and requirements for the Subclass 462 Work and Holiday visa, replacing or updating previous arrangements.

Who is affected by the latest change

  • People applying for an Australian Work and Holiday visa (Subclass 462)
  • People preparing a new Subclass 462 application after 1 July 2026
  • Department of Home Affairs officers processing Subclass 462 applications
  • Representatives assisting people with Subclass 462 applications

What changed in the latest version

Before

Before 1 July 2026, the 2021 document (LIN 21/019) set the rules for Subclass 462 applications. This document was changed over time. That document explained which forms to use and how to apply for Work and Holiday visas. The age rule was also structured differently in the Migration Regulations.

After

From 1 July 2026, the new document, LIN 26/072, sets the rules for Subclass 462 applications. People usually apply online using Form 1208 (Internet). If the Department tells an applicant in writing to use another way to apply, the applicant can follow those instructions. The wider changes made in 2026 also moved the age requirement. It moved from the rules about granting a visa to the rules about applying for a visa.

This document is important for people who plan to apply for a Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday) Visa in Australia. It is also important for those who already have one. It sets out the rules for this visa type. The document does not give specific details about changes. However, its existence shows that the rules for the Work and Holiday visa are being updated or maintained. It starts on 30 June 2026. This date marks when any new rules will begin.

Explained simply

Australia has made new rules for people who want to come and work and travel there on a special visa called the 'Work and Holiday Visa' (Subclass 462). These new rules start on 30 June 2026, and will tell you exactly what you need to do to get this visa.

Frequently asked

Version history

  1. v1Effective 1 Jul 2026EffectiveMedium impact
    Migration (Arrangements for Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday) Visa) Instrument 2026

    The Australian Department of Home Affairs has created a new legal document. It is called the 'Migration (Arrangements for Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday) Visa) Instrument 2026'. This document is allowed under the Migration Regulations 1994. It will start on 30 June 2026. This document is only about the Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday) Visa. The document does not provide the exact details of the new rules.

Timeline

  1. Takes effect

    30 Jun 2026

    The Migration (Arrangements for Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday) Visa) Instrument 2026 sets out the specific arrangements for the Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday) Visa. This instrument is authorised by the Migration Regulations 1994 and is administered by the Department of Home Affairs.

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