Australia and Greece announce a reciprocal Work and Holiday visa agreement, effective 1 July 2019
The Australian government has unveiled a new reciprocal agreement for a Work and Holiday visa arrangement with Greece. This came into effect on 1 July 2019. It was first discussed in 2014, and ratified by the Greek Parliament in 2015. The agreement reached finalisation during an Australian visit of Greek Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Terens Quick.
Melbourne’s Greek population is the largest in the world, outside of Greece itself. It is home to a diaspora of 150,000 Greek nationals, and just under half a million Australians who were registered as having Greek ancestry in the 2017 census.
About the Australian Work and Holiday visa (Subclass 462)
500 places for the Work and Holiday visa will be made available annually in both Australia, and in Greece. These are specifically designated for young travelers between the ages of 18 to 30 (inclusive). The 12 month visa allows for short-term work and study in Australia.
Requirements
To avail of the Subclass 462 visa, young Greeks must have completed secondary education, and possess a level of “Functional English”. Applicants will be required to show proof of at least $5000 AUD for their initial stay. Health and character standards must be met. A letter of support from the Greek Government is also necessary.
Visa holders pursuing a second year of the Work and Holiday category are required to work in a regional area for a three month period. For a third year extension, they must work in a specified regional area for at least six months during the second year of their visa.
It’s anticipated that this visa will be highly sought after by Greeks wanting to live and work in Australia, and experience the Aussie culture and lifestyle.
If you’d like to discuss your visa options further or have any questions, reach out to us at +61 3 9670 7555 or send an email to [email protected]
