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Working Holiday Visa age limit up to 35 years

Working Holiday Visa age limit up to 35 years

Some nationalities can apply for a Working Holiday visa (subclass 417 & 462) up to and including, 35 years of age. Among those French, Canadian, Irish citizens, Italian and Danish citizens.

The UK – Australia Free Trade Agreement entered into force in May 2023. UK passport holders are now able to apply for a Working Holiday visa between the ages of 18 and 35 years inclusive since July 2023.

The age of 30 years remains as the limit for all other Working Holiday countries that travel to Australia. Everything you need to know, you can read in this article.

Age limit increased to 35 for some nationalities

Countries with age increased

This is great news for travellers over 30 years old from a few countries! Indeed, the age eligibility for applying for an Australian Working Holiday Visa expanded to 35 years for some nationalities!

  • In 2018, Working Holiday Visa Australia age limit increased to 35 years for Canadian and Irish citizens.
  • In 2019, it was France that announced the same change !
  • Since July 2022 the age limit for Italian and Danish citizens wanting to work and travel in Australia has also increased by five years – from 30 to 35 years of age. Australian citizens up to the age of 35 will also benefit from reciprocal arrangements with Italy and Denmark.
  • And finally, since 1 July 2023, the age limit increased to 35 years for UK passport holders!

Migration Act Extract

Those changes can be seen in Schedule 1—Countries or regions, passport conditions and age requirements in the instrument Migration (Arrangements for subclass 417 visa applications) Instrument (LIN 22/051) 2022 and Migration (Arrangements for subclass 417 visa applications) Amendment Instrument (LIN 23/047) 2023.
It is also noted on the immigration website under the ‘age condition’ for a WHV.

Australian legislation clearly defines the age limit for Working Holiday visa makers  :

(2) The applicant:
(a) holds a working holiday eligible passport of the kind, or of one of the kinds, specified in a legislative instrument made by the Minister for the purposes of this subclause; and

(b) is aged at least 18 and no more than:
(i) 35; or
(ii) if a younger age is specified in the instrument mentioned in paragraph (a) for the kind of passport the applicant holds—that younger age.

Therefore if no age is specified, it means that the age limit is 35 years old.

Other partner countries (such as Germany) are still in the process to amend the bilateral Working Holiday Maker agreement expanding the eligibility age to 35. 

For UK Passport Holders

The UK – Australia Free Trade Agreement has entered into force and the age limit for UK passport holders has been increased to 35 since 1st of July 2023.

With the agreement, UK passport holders are able to:

  • apply for a Working Holiday visa between the ages of 18 and 35 years inclusive since 1 July 2023
  • will be granted up to three Working Holiday visas without having to meet any specified work requirements from 1 July 2024.

More info : UK – Australia FTD

How to renew your Working Holiday Visa in Australia

People currently on a Working Holiday Visa in Australia (subclasses 417 or 462) and over 30 years old, are eligible to apply for a second or third year visa if they are from France, Ireland, Canada, Italy, Denmark and UK.

Renewing your Working Holiday Visa in Australia, either Subclass 417 or Subclass 462, offers an exciting opportunity to extend your stay and continue exploring the country. The process, however, requires meeting specific criteria and undertaking certain types of work.

For Subclass 417 visa holders, you’re eligible to apply for a second year if you have completed three months (or 88 days) of specified work in regional areas of Australia during your first year. This work often includes farming, fishing, mining, and construction. Holders of a second Subclass 417 visa can apply for a third year by undertaking six months of specified work in specified regional areas during their second year.

Similarly, for Subclass 462 visa holders, a second year is possible if you complete three months (or 88 days) of specified work in northern Australia in certain industries, including tourism and hospitality, agriculture, forestry, and fishing. As with the 417 visa, a third year is possible for 462 visa holders who complete six months of specified work during their second year.

Note: UK passport holders will be exempted from regional work from 1 July 2024.

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1208 COMMENTS

  1. Hi, I’ve already completed 1 year travel within Australia and achieved my 88 days farm work. I am from the UK currently aged 30 and turn 31 in November. If I apply for my 2nd visa before I’m 31, this will give me up to 12 months until November 2021 to ‘enter’ Australia, right? Could I then enter use said visa for the 2nd year.. Even though I would be 32?

  2. Hello, I am an Irish citizen, I have completed my 1st year Australian WHV and I am eligible to apply for my second one. Does the age limit of 35 apply to me even though I did my 1st year WHV before this update in age came in? Thanks

  3. Hay !!
    I am from Indonesia, can I apply for WHV when I am 32 years old.? But I have 4 years experience in Agriculture. Because almost all the information I read must be 30 years old.
    What about 32 years old but with 4 years experience can still apply for WHV?

  4. Hi there, I’m a UK citizen who was interested in possibly getting one of those working visas to come and live / work in Australia for a year. Only trouble is I turn 31 on Monday! Have I left things too late?

  5. Hi, i applied for a visa and because of covid I’m not able to go, it expires this month. From what I understand i have until 2022 to ask for a WHC WAIVER or a refund.
    Is that correct? Any extra info is welcome. Thanks in advance.

  6. Hi. I’m portuguese 31 years old. Never been in Australia. Do I have any chances to get a working holiday visa? No exceptions related with covid-19?

  7. Hi there,

    I am an Irish citizen turning 33 and hoping to use this visa in the next year or so. However I work in Banking and want to continue on this job path, can I do so or am I required to engage in ‘casual’ work?

    Thanks

  8. Hi there,

    I was just wondering, say if you do 88 days of work on your first WHV and you want to apply for a second one but in New Zealand, is that transferable or is it limited to Australia?

    Thank you

  9. Hi, I’m 32 years old living in Ireland, UK passport holder, is there any possibility of a WHV when things open

  10. Hi there,
    I have just started by second year working holiday visa Feb 2021, however I turned 31 in December 2020. If I complete 6 months of agriculture work this year will I be eligible for a third year visa, I have heard mixed stories of the visas been granted and not granted. Otherwise I’ll know if I should do my 6 months agriculture work or not

  11. Hi,

    I am a 26 year old French citizen. I have found a job in Sydney but need to work out the visa. Is it possible to enter Australia at the moment? Is the government releasing any work holiday visas at the moment?

  12. Hi I have exceeded the age limit for a U.K. citizen (33yrs),
    Are there any other way to work in aus and possibly live there eventually. I have family that immigrated over 10yrs ago and own a business. Can this help or is there any other way to get over there?
    Thanks

  13. Hey there!!

    I am a 33 year old Canadian passport holder (currently living in the UK). I would love to apply for an Australian WHV. However, do I need to wait until the borders open to do so? Any indication of when this may be and how long the visa application takes?

    Also, can you work the full year in one job or only 6 months?

    Thanks so much for all your help!!

    Corinne

  14. Hi,

    I just wondered whether you know if and potentially when the UK age limit May increase to 35. I’m 32 and procrastinated too much previously, and missed my chance!

    If not, then are my other options permanent residence applications?

    Thanks

      • Hi,
        I will turn 35 in July of this year. I know the age limit increase was agreed but when will this agreement likely be finalised?. I’m guessing providing it’s done prior to me turning 36 I can apply?

        • Hi Gemma,
          Unfortunately we don’t have nay more details at this stage. On the provisional Uk-Australia FTD under the ‘Mobility’ section it says the agreement will come into effect ‘within 5 years’. We hope it will be sooner! Cheers

  15. Hi, i am from the uk and applied for my first year visa a month before turning 31. It is saying the process will take 4 months to be granted. Do i have a year to enter once it is granted or from when i applied?

    Also, if the age limit is indeed upped to 35, i am assuming i will be able to do a second and third year?

    Any light would help! Thanks, James

    • Hi James
      The 12 months start once your visa is granted. Regarding the age limit, we do not know exactly when it will enter into effect. But in all cases, yes once the age limit is increased to 35 you will be able to stay up to 3 years in Australia. Cheers

  16. Do we know how long it took for the Canadian/Irish/french age limit to change to 35? Surely it can’t take too long to come into effect

  17. Hi, I am from the Uk and have completed both my first year and second year WHV. Can I apply for a third year WHV as i worked in the construction industry until I left Australia in November 2019?

    Many thanks,

    Dan

    • Hi Daniel, you must have carried out at least 6 months of specified work on or after 1 July 2019. If it’s the case, and you are still within the age limit, you can apply for a third year. For now, we do not know when the agreement will enter into force. Cheers

      • Thanks for getting back to me.

        I worked in the construction industry for most of my second WHV, so would have done 6months by July 2019, so can I still apply? I am 30 now so can I go ahead and apply for the third year now?

        Many thanks,

        Dan

  18. Hi guys,

    I’m a UK resident and I’m currently working on my subclass 417 application. The online application says the “State / Province” section of the Place of Birth information is a required field. Any idea what to put in this section, as states and provinces don’t really exist in the UK? I was born in Tyne and Wear, and this seems the most logical.

    Cheers!

  19. Just wondering if I applied for a working holiday visa at 23 and worked and got my second year working holiday visa and completed it. At 30 years of age can I apply for a working holiday visa again?!

  20. Hello,

    I have already completed my 1 year WHV. I didn’t do my farm work. When this comes into play does this mean I can apply for a second year?

    Thank you

  21. Hi
    I’m from U.K. I’m 30 my partner is 31 (32 next month)
    Are we able to apply for WHV or do we need to wait until the age limit has increase indefinitely ?
    Also my partner did his first year approx 8 years ago. Does he still apply for second ?

    Thanks.

    Jay

  22. Hi there. I am 31 yo turning 32 in June 2022. I am from UK and hold a British passport. I have never before being in Australia and was wondering if I could apply for visa?

  23. I applied for a working holiday visa in 2011 and went and stayed/worked in australia for a year but didn’t realise about the “specfic work” until too late, im now 33 and a half years old from London, and on the uk news it says that the new working holiday visa might not need to have the specific work to get second visa?

  24. Hey

    Do we have any more news on when this agreement for upto 35 could take place. I heard they met last week but nothing was signed. You think July 2022 is realistic

    If for example it does get signed then is there a waiting time to get it from then or you could apply more or less straight away

    Also, when you apply what’s the odds on getting one. As this isn’t based on a points system like the skilled one so is it just more or less anyone qualifies but you can only give so many out ?

    Thanks

    • Hi Conor,
      Hard to answer all your questions as we do not know much at this stage. However it is said that the agreement should enter into force in 2022 (to face the lack of manpower in Australia). So hopefully we should know more within the next few months. Cheers

  25. Hi i have previously been to Australia on a working holiday visa and completed more than 88 days. Ive now been home for nearly 2 years due to covid im 33 from the uk is there a chance of getting a second year whv when the age limit raises to 35? Or will i need to look at different visa options? Thanks

      • Hi, I just want to confirm your answer as I am reading some conflicting comments on this page.

        I am a 31 year old UK resident, who stayed in AU for less than a year under a 417 visa. This was roughly 5 years ago – and I completed my 88 days during that time.

        Now, understanding the new ’35 year old allowances’, I am very keen to return and do my 2nd and 3rd year…. is this possible?

        Thank you!

        • Hi Tom,
          It is a bit tricky to reply to this for sure. We do not know at this stage if the FTA will apply only to new WHV or previous ones. But in your case, as you did your 88 days, it seems you will be able to apply for a new WHV (TBC). We will update this article once we have more information in hand. Cheers

          • Hi,

            I had a thought….

            …the Irish/French/Canadian went through a similar change a few years back, right? AU bumped up their age ceiling from 30 to 35.

            How did AU deal with these? Did they allow previous WHV applicants to return to complete their 2nd year (say at 32 or 33 years old)? Or did these new rules only apply to to brand new WHV apps?

            Thanks,
            Tom

  26. Hi, I applied for a working holiday visa back in 2015. I stayed in Aus for 4 months working for a university, but then came home. I’m now 34 and hoping to apply for a new working holiday visa (hopefully next year) before I turn 36 in March 2023. Given I already had one of these visas in 2015, will I still be eligible for second, assuming the age limit increases to 35 before I turn 36 in 2023?
    Thanks!

      • Hi, thanks for getting back to me. Given the age is increasing to 35 and the criteria (like farm work) are changing, doesn’t that mean the scheme is starting afresh?

        I guess what I’m asking is, how does my previous WHV make ineligible for a new one once the age limit increases? Can’t I just do the work required under the new scheme?

        Cheers.

  27. Hey guys, iam 29 at the moment, turning 30 in 6 months… I alread got to the medical exam stage and was now wondering, if I now do the checkup and get positiv feedback and my application gets accepted, let’s say end of January, is my 12 month visa than valid from that day on or can I also enter for example in November 2022 (I would still be 30) and still have the full 12 month? Let me know guys, thank you very much; you should get payed from the home affairs agency

  28. Hello

    I previously had a WHV for 2 years back in 2011, when the visa age limit gets increased would I be able to apply as a UK citizen?

  29. I have already done a working holiday visa but was unable to do the farm work to make me eligible for a second year because of the covid restrictions. My intention was to enjoy the first 6 months and then do my farm work but couldn’t because of all the restrictions the country had in place due to covid. I knew I was too old to get my second year but was going to do the farm work anyway due to hearing the rumours of age increase which is actually happening, July 1st I have heard. I had to leave early because I lost my job as well. Where do I stand? Could I possibly be granted the new one due to the circumstances the country and I was in when I was living there because if none of this had happened I would’ve done my farm work like I had planned and be eligible for my second year when the age increase is in place.

  30. Hi there,

    I held my 2 WHV’s from March 2018-March 2020, as far as I can remember the 6 month farmwork for UK visa holders for a 3rd year wasn’t an option at the time.
    When the new trade deal comes into effect, can I get a third year visa seeing as there’s no farmwork requirement moving forward anyway?

  31. Hi,

    My partner (UK resident) was been granted a working holiday visa on 6th December 2021. We don’t intend to pick up the visa from the Aus Embassy in London and enter Aus until December 2022. Although it was granted before July 2022 (presumably when these changes come in), would my partner still be given a 3 year visa with no work restrictions because we wont be entering until after the date these changes come into play?? Thanks in advance!! Love the information on the website!!

    • Hi Barry,
      It is unclear at the moment how the regulation will apply. However your partner’s visa wont be activated until you enter the country. You can wait until there are more details about the agreement and worst case scenario cancel his visa and reapply for a new one after the FTA enters into force. Cheers

  32. can I renew my working holiday visa before it expires? I am applying for the first year now and will turn 30 in april.
    I imagine going to Australia in October and doing the 3 months of specific work to be eligible for visa renewal.
    However, my first visa year would expire in October 2023 and I would already be 31 years old.
    Could I apply in April, before I turn 31? even though it’s 6 months to my first visa expires? Or could I apply for a new extension visa even though I have already turned 31?
    or in that case would I only be eligible for a one year visa?

  33. I held a 417 WHV January 2019-2020, and I didn’t do the 88 days regional/farm work so wasn’t eligible for the 2nd year visa.
    When the new “no work necessary” rules come into place in July, will I be able to apply for my 2nd year?

  34. Hi there,

    I am from Holland. I’m currently 32 years of age and already did a working holiday in 2019-2020. Had to leave because of covid but luckily I finished my farm work just in time. So I applied for the second WH visa before I turned 31 in August 2020. For a long time I didn’t really hear anything until the 10th of December 2021(!!), when my second WH visa got approved. I was surprised to say the least. Now, because the age restriction for my country is 30, can I still make use of the visa because I’m 32 at the moment and will be 33 on August 29 this year? The visa got approved and it saids I must enter Australia before December 10th. Cheers!

    Regards,
    Jelmer

  35. Hello! Im a British passport holder. I applied for a working holiday visa just before I turned 31, it got approved but I was unable to use it due to covid, and border closure. The visa expired and I wasn’t able to reapply because I turned 31.

    Will that be an issue if I reapply once the age limit changes to 35??

  36. I am 30 years old and turn 31 in December, I have already completed 1 year in Australia and did do my farm work, I am a British citizen, would I be able to return for a further year?

    • Hi Amy,
      We do not know at this stage if the FTA will apply only to new WHV or previous ones. As you did your 88 days, it seems you will be able to apply for a new WHV (TBC). We will update this article once we have more information in hand. Cheers

  37. Hi, I’m from the UK recently turned 31 years old , I haven’t been to Australia before , but looking to come out to work.

    Did they increase the 18-30 age to 35? Or will I be unable to do this

    Thanks, Dean

  38. Hi I am 34 and have a recent criminal record for failing to provide and breath test. Will this affect me getting my whv. Also when is it likely to change to 35yr limit. And can I complete what needs to be completed time/visa wise at this age or will I run out of time

  39. I have applied for my first holiday working visa, and planning to fly over next February from the UK. By this time I will be 31.

    Does that mean I would not be able to apply for the second year working visa even though I am still over there and completed the mandatory work needed?

    Or should I just cross my fingers and hope that the 35 year old extension goes through?

  40. Hi, I applied for a WHV back in 2015, I entered Australia on this visa but never worked, only travelled for 4 months. Would I be able to apply for another WHV because I did not work?

  41. Hi there,

    I just discovered the WHV program is extending to 35 years old for UK citizens (fingers crossed)
    I also see a third year has been added if you do 6 months of agricultural work in your second year (this wasn’t an option when I previously completed my second year WHV)
    In my second year on a WHV in Australia I did work for 6 months in agricultural work. Do you think it would be possible to use that work from 2017 to apply for a third WHV? I’m 33 now.

    Thank you

  42. Hi, I am a UK citizen with an upto date passport. I will turn 35 on May 2nd. Can I apply for a WHV now? If not, do you know when or even if I ever will be able to before I turn 36 in 2023? Thanks

  43. Hi there, just noticed on a few websites the mention that the FTA possibly won’t come into force until 2024. Just wondering if there is any official info on when the visa age increase is now likely to come into force. Currently 35 and turning 36 in Nov 2022, so a bit worried about the timeframe and possibility of missing out. Thanks

  44. Hi you guys. I’m 28 and from the UK; I have just applied for my first WHV. Complete newb.

    I have a tricky question – first, I’ll be 29 by the time I arrive in Australia. And as things stand with the 30 y/o limit, that means I can apply for the second years WHV when I’m 30 and stay a second year. However, when that year is up, I’d then be too old to apply for a third years WHV.

    Let’s assume this 35 y/o limit doesn’t come into force – is there any other way to stay longer? I.e if you’re over the age limit for a third WHV? Is the only way to stay permanently (without studying or getting married!) to find an employer who will sponsor you to stay?

    Second question, and I doubt you’ll know this – let’s say I’m in Australia doing my 88 days of hard graft for my first WHV and then the new 3-year visa option comes into play – think I’ll be able to start from scratch again? I.e get the 3 year visa (which may have more relaxed restrictions on what work one can do?).

    Cheers

    • Hi Ed,
      If the FTA doesn’t enter into force on type, you have to go on another visa (can be student, tourist or even a sponsor if you find one).
      For your second question we do not know at this stage if if will concern only new WHV or also people who already hold a WHV… we will need to wait a bit to get some clarification!
      Cheers

  45. Hi all, I’ve just seen an update to the new WHM visa for UK passport holders (when it gets implemented). It gives good clear examples for people that are new to applying for the first time and also for people who have already had a stint in Australia and where they stand on applying for the ‘new’ visa when it comes out.

    I think it will answer a lot of people’s questions in this forum and is generally very good news for all

    https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/whm-program/latest-news/arrangements-uk-passport-holders

  46. Hi, with the announcement that the age is to be increased to 35 for Danish and Italian on the 1st of July 22. There’s no mention of the U.K. does that now mean it’s unlikely the U.K. change is to come in on the 1st of July after all?

  47. Hi,

    I know it’s speculation at the moment, but how confident are you the new WHV for over 35 year old from the UK will go through this year? i’ve read reports saying it may be July and then others saying it could be within the next 2 years?

    I’ve just turned 31 so have to wait for the new visa and hopeful it’s this year but also dont want to put my life on hold for 2 years if it’s happening 2024!

  48. Hi,

    I’m within the age limit 29 but my husband is turning 40 this year. He always wanted to do the WHM. Could he join me on my visa, as spouse? Is that an option?

  49. Hi mate, any update on whether the UK will change the age limit to 35 soon? I really need this to happen and I’ve heard some news articles say this will happen by 1 July 2022. Cheers mate

  50. Hi,

    I’m 30 and turn 31 in November? Is the age limit getting increased to 35? And does the year start from the day you apply? Or say it’s accepted.

    Thanks

    • Hi Lewis,
      Yes the age limit is to increase soon (we do not have a date yet). Once the agreement enters into force, UK passport holders will then be able to lodge an application for any Working Holiday (subclass 417) visa up until the day before their 36th birthday.

  51. Hey have you any update on when the age from UK will change to 35 to get into Australia? 🙂 I keep coming mixed comments – thank you

  52. hi there,

    do you think the UK and AUS will increase the WHV ages to 35 by 1 July 2022? I really need to get there soon so hoping this happens

  53. Hey there!
    I am 34 years old from USAand currently residing in Bali, Indonesia.
    It’s unfortunate for me that USA wasn’t part of the age limit increase.
    Does anyone here know of any other way I can enter Australia for temporary work?
    I have some friends who are suggesting to apply for a study visa and take a short course which also allows for 40 hour work week whilst attending a course.
    What do you guys think?
    Thank you!

  54. Please, if I was granted the WHV before (when I was 30) but haven’t entered Australia, can I apply again and be granted it again?
    Thank you!
    Giovanni

  55. Hi when you go for the working visa what information do you need to have. I have been told you need a police report also what vaccine do you need to have thanks.

  56. Hi

    Seeing as the age for UK citizens is going to 35, and i already have my first year approved (i plan to enter in November) if i arrive at age 32, then in theory i should be able to extend my stay for 3 years, taking me to just before i turn 36?

    Thanks!
    James

  57. Hi just wondering what information is needed for the visa as I have been living in Thailand for 11 months do you need a police report also what vaccines are needed I’ve had 2nd one do I need to have my 3rd to be safe for a job. Also what date do we think the age will increase for applying for the visa

    thanks

    • Hi Jonathan,
      The documents you ll need to provide will be listed at the end of your application. You may need some medical ones. To enter Australia you ‘only’ need 2 doses.
      And finally for the age limit… maybe July but nothing is 100% atm. Cheers

      • That’s perfect do you need your medical information from your own doctor or just a to-do a medical at somewhere that does them as don’t want to travel back to the UK to get the information thanks.

  58. Hello!

    I am 30 and turn 31 on the 21st of June. I have my first WHV sorted but just want to check, do I have to be in the country before I turn 31 next month or can I come a few days after? My Visa expiry is May 2023 so I’m assuming I can enter after my 31st as the visa was completed prior to me turning 31, is this correct? I should say, I’m from the UK.

    Any help would be greatly appreciated!

  59. Hello,

    I turn 31 in August. Is it best to apply now or wait until the new age limit comes into place? Would I still need to complete the mandatory farm work to get the second year, or would I still benefit from the rule change?

    Thanks

  60. Hello,

    Is it possible to make another YMV? I am a canadian who used hers in 2014. Now I am 32 wondering if I can get another YMV now that the age is to 35?

    Thanks!!

  61. Hi,

    I’m from the UK and currently 30 years old, I turn 31 in March of next year. I’m looking into getting a visa to australia and need to come up with the best plan possible

    Few questions- How long do i have to apply for my visa and how long will this process take? When receiving my one year visa do i have to enter the country before turning 31? I also see that the visa age limit will change to 35 for brits soon. Do you know when this is law is likely to come into play?

  62. Do we have a rough estimate of when the new UK Aus FTA will come into effect? Was first reported at July 1st but that doesn’t seem true now.

  63. I’m losing hope that both governments are going to enact the 35 age limit anytime soon. And I need it to be done soon as well

  64. Hello,

    Does anyone know for certain that the new working holiday visa (UK/Aus) will definitely commence this year? I’ve seen a lot of comments on various forums that say it will commence on the 1st July but as it gets closer and closer to the date there are barely any news articles or certified sources to state this is the case, which I so desperately have been hoping for.

    Recently there has been an update on the House of Commons page to say the trade deal was formally laid before parliament on 15th June, and now it provides for a minimum of a further 21 sitting days before the UK can ratify the agreement, which correct me if I’m wrong takes us to 5th of July? And won’t it be another 30 days to then come into affect?

    It would be really useful if anyone else has found further information or confirmed sources instead of the generic response: “the agreement will commence within 2 years” as most of us are already aware and are desperate for some good news with a more specific date (fully understand it’s a long shot).

    Thank you!

  65. Hi,

    Since it recently went through for Danish and Italian citizens has there been any update on when the age increase to the working holiday visa will come into effect for Brits?

    When the change is made for Brits will they be able to apply from inside Australia if they are already there on a tourist, or other, visa,?

    Thanks for all your work to help us understand what’s going on.

      • Thanks for your response. Do you have any information regarding my second question? If a Brit were in Australia on a tourist visa when when the changes come into effect would they be able to apply for a work and travel visa from within the country?

        From what I have read the UK is expected to ratify their side of the agreement around the 20th of July. However, Australia’s Joint Standing Committee on Treaties doesn’t reconvene until the 26th of July and the trade agreement is currently listed under lapsed inquiries as it wasn’t completed before the election. So it could be another month or more until Australia officially signs off on their side. Fingers crossed the visa age changes will come in immediately when they do.

        My source:
        https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Treaties/Lapsed_inquiries_of_the_46th_Parliament

  66. Hello,

    I too was due to apply when I turned 30 but missed the boat – UK citizen. I will turn 35 Jan 2023 and 36 in Jan 2024 and understand in 2024 the age will change to 35 for Brits? When would be the best time for me to apply? I don’t want to miss out again

  67. Hi, I’m looking to go to Australia in august, and I’m from the Uk. If I get a year working visa, before the new 18-35 visa is approved, will I be able to change visas to avoid doing the farm work please? Or will I have to do the farm work, then apply for the new visa once the 12 months run out?

    • I feel your frustration, I’m not yet 30 but my fiancé is 32… we have been waiting for months, with the hope it would be implemented on 1st July, the day came and went but we then got our hopes up the new agreement would be ratified today but nothing so far.
      What’s even more weird is there’s been absolutely no media attention around it.
      Our lives are on hold whilst we wait for this law, I’m currently working a job I hate but can’t hand my notice in until we can apply for visas. Losing hope too!

  68. So i’ve found this below news article:

    https://7news.com.au/politics/australia-uk-fta-due-to-be-legislated-c-7082377

    It states that the The Australia-Britain Free Trade Agreement is due to be passed through parliament when it resumes, and will likely come into effect by the end of the year or early 2023.

    The commissioner says the process will be concluded when the 47th parliament begins onm July 26.

    “The trade deal is done and dusted. It’s signed, so it’s going through parliamentary processes because free trade agreements are international treaties and have to be legislated,” Ms Treadell told AAP.

    “That’s gone very well so far. We very much look forward to the Free Trade Agreement coming into effect at the end of this year or the beginning of next year.”

    So i guess this is good news in that it’s def going ahead so hopefully will be end of this year latest.

  69. I’m in the same boat as you chloe. Life on hold and in a job I cannot wait to quit until this deal comes into effect. At this stage lost all hope as it keeps getting pushed further and further back, and I turn 36 in aug of next year so time is running out. Might look at other countries to go to now while they have actual policies in place.

  70. I am also in the waiting lane for the age limit to increase, very frustrating :). As you can’t apply for a first year working holiday visa whilst in Australia, do you know if you can apply whilst not in the UK? E.g. if I applied whilst in Asia, and flew from there?

    Any info you have would be much appreciated!
    Hang in there guys, we’ll get there!

  71. Hi,

    I was wondering if i could apply for the Working holiday visa outside the uk but also not within Australia? I am a uk citizen?

    Thanks all of your help!

  72. For anyone interested the Australian Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has added the UK-Australia FTA to their list of current inquiries with the following info:

    “The inquiry was re-referred to the Committee on Monday, 1 August 2022. The Treaty and related documents can be found on the Treaty being considered page.

    The Committee will not be re-opening submissions and will use the evidence and records of the previous Committee received in the 46th Parliament.”

    The reporting date is 16 November 2022 which is the earliest reporting date of any of their current inquiries.

    Source:
    https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Treaties

    • It means the Joint Standing Committee on Treaties (JSCOT) is currently considering the submissions made back in Feb/March by the previous government regarding the UK-Aus FTA and will produce a report with recommendations that take into account those submissions. From what I’ve seen the government doesn’t necessarily have to use any of the recommendations and the treaty can be ratified and enter into force before the government responds to the report.

      One thing I’m not sure about yet is whether the reporting date is the earliest the report can be released or if it could come out sooner if the JSCOT finishes it early. It seems like the government can’t ratify the trade deal until that report comes out though.

      So if the reporting date is fixed the trade deal could be finished any time after Nov 16. If it’s not fixed and the report can come out sooner then maybe it can be finalised even sooner. It’s worth keeping in mind that per the terms of the trade deal it will enter into force one month after it’s ratified by both sides unless they agree on a different date. So even if everything was finalised by both sides on Nov 16 it could be another month before the FTA actually starts.

      The submissions from the previous government:
      https://www.dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/not-yet-in-force/aukfta/submissions#submissions

  73. Hello!

    Any idea when they might increase the age limit for Estonian citizens? Or where I could find info about that? I know that currently the age limit is 30 years.

  74. Hey guys!

    First of all thanks in advance for your time. Wondering if it is possible to apply for a WHV 417 with an Italian Passport if I had already lived in Australia for 2 years with my Argentinian Passport (under a WHV 462)? I really would like to go back, i have been working in regional areas all my stay there during the covid but I turned 33 this year. I didnt receive the approval of the covid Visa and i left the country without applied for a Bridging B..my bad. u know if there is any possibility to get an exemption?

    • Hi Alvaro,
      No sure it will be possible as there is a question when applying for a WHV where you must say whether or not you ve already done a WHV in Australia. It is worth giving it a go (but you might loose your application fees). Cheers

  75. Hi there!

    Is it possible to extend my arrival date on my accepted first year working holiday visa? It currently states ‘arrival before 10 december 2022’ – could i push this back to january 2023?

    Moreover if i cannot arrive before the date given can i re-apply for the whv?

    Thanks!
    James

  76. Here is a bit more info regarding the reporting date of the UK-Australia FTA:

    “Category 1 and Category 2 treaties (major treaty actions) automatically stand referred to the Committee for inquiry and report upon tabling in the Parliament. The Committee will generally report on these treaties within 20 and 15 joint sitting days respectively”.

    The committee can decide it requires more rigorous inquiry and extend the time frame, they can also decide that it’s urgent and exempt it from the standard 20 or 15 days.

    So if sitting days for the committee are Mon-Fri the report could be released much sooner than Nov 16.

    Source:
    https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Treaties/Role_of_the_Committee

    • It’s looking that way. I checked and the JSCOT has 15 sitting days between when it was re-referred to them and Nov 16th. So it could be ratified on November 17th and enter into force by mid December. That is looking like the best case scenario at the moment.

      I haven’t seen anything that explicitly states the working holiday visa age will increase on the day the FTA enters into force. So unless anyone has found anything to the contrary it’s worth keeping that in mind too.

      Maybe the site admins can tell us more about that as they are expecting the age increase to happen soon.

    • We are exploring other visa options because this is becoming painful with all the speculating and waiting – our lives have literally been on hold for 8 months and passing us by. So I definitely recommend biting the bullet, looking at alternatives and checking the skilled workers list because there doesn’t seem to be any urgency around this & it will most likely not come into affect until 2024. We were told July 1st and it never happened so if it’s November this year I’d be super surprised. Good luck!

  77. Hi Chloe. To my knowledge neither the Australian nor UK governments gave July 1st 2022 as the date the age changes would occur.

    I disagree regarding the trade deal not entering into force until 2024. The reporting date for the JSCOT is Nov 16. After the report is released the Australian government can ratify their side of the deal and it should enter into force one month after that. Whether the age increase to the WHV will occur on the same day remains to be seen.

    However, I agree that looking at alternative visa options is a good idea and am doing the same. Best of luck with it all.

  78. Hello,
    I come from Italy, I am 35 y.o. and will turn 36 in January 2023. I have just got my firt working holiday Visum, valid until 28.8.2023. Do I need to enter Australia before I turn 36 or can I enter the Country within the next 12 Months, even if I will be 36 y.o. ? Thank u

  79. I hold a Uk passport . I’m 31 is it now possible to work in Aus up to the age of 35 ?

    I completed my first year when I was 21 and earned my second year but never ended up using it . Have they extended the age to 35 now ?

    • “Trevelyan is the first British cabinet minister to visit Australia since the election of Anthony Albanese as prime minister in May. She said the enabling legislation for the trade deals would be introduced within the coming few weeks and expects the deal to be fully ratified by early 2023.”

      Not much on it to be honest mate! She’s doing a speech with the Oz counterpart in Adelaide tomorrow! See what comes of it

  80. Thanks for the info Bradley.

    Sorry as you may not know and it’s still unknown or if the article said more to it.

    But does this mean age range will be done by 2023 ?

    As I’m hoping it gets done by august next year as I’m 31, looking to go in September next year.

  81. Hi!

    Is it possible to push back on the latest arrival date of my first year visa? It says entry by 15 December 2022. Can i push back to January?

    Thanks!
    James

  82. https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/international-trade-secretary-speech-to-australian-chambers-of-commerce

    Quote from her speech

    The UK is focused on ratifying the agreement as soon as possible.

    The reason I have to head home tomorrow is because I’ll be presenting the enabling legislation for the FTA to the House of Commons on Tuesday – the next stage towards implementing this legislation, so our firms and citizens can start to enjoy its benefits.

    I know your government is focused on moving ahead at pace too.

  83. For people who are desperate to get to Australia. Can you not just apply for the WFH visa now and go?
    If we now can strongly assume the new rules will come affect some point in 2023. Which means it will come into affect during your first year of the WHV, which should mean you will be able to extend it for the further two whilst your there.

  84. Thanks for the update! A couple of quotes worth keeping in mind:

    “I am confident that by the end of the year we’ll have done everything we need to do to legally set up the Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement,”

    “The treaty has already been submitted to the British House of Commons and will be sent through the committee stage in the next two weeks”

    So it looks like both sides are keen to get it done soon. But:

    “Australians eligible for the UK’s Youth Mobility Program will expand from 30 to 35 years of age within two years of the agreement coming into effect”

    Hopefully the age changes happen on the day it enters into force or very shortly after.

  85. “Australians eligible for the UK’s Youth Mobility Program will expand from 30 to 35 years of age within two years of the agreement coming into effect”

    I don’t understand why there would be a further delay on that aspect when that is part of the deal?

  86. It’s part of the deal but I remember reading something about the removal of the necessary work requirement happening within two years after it’s potential impact has been assessed. Maybe it’s related to that.

    Just realised I didn’t link the article. Here it is:
    https://www.skynews.com.au/australia-news/politics/young-australians-the-big-winners-as-labor-government-expects-legislative-work-on-uk-free-trade-deal-to-be-done-by-end-of-year/news-story/f0c6f6fdad9db9c8f8dbe319478ae6f8

  87. I have written to the UK Committee overseeing the report on the trade bill.

    They were due to sit on the 14th Sept, with their report due out on the 22nd. But of course this is now put back due to The Queen dying.

    I have made it clear that the Under 35 agreement should be implemented, as soon as the deal is ratified and into effect, as it would help labour markets, businesses and exporters.

    I suggest those who want it implemented straight away do the same. scrutiny@parliament.uk

  88. Ok great, i currently have a visa approved and the arrival date is 10th December this year which i may struggle to do. I am over 30 now and from the UK but in theory if the age gets bumped up to 35 at some stage next year say; i’ll be able to re-apply for the first year visa again when that happens?

    Thanks!
    James

  89. https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/sep/20/fears-australian-farm-labour-woes-may-worsen-with-loss-of-uk-backpackers-under-trade-deal

    ‘….

    However, after the Coalition government signed the UK-Australia free trade agreement last year, British backpackers will no longer need 88 days of farm work to extend their working holiday visas. The relaxed requirements will not come into effect until at least 2024 as the deal has not yet come into force.

    …’

    Not sure where they are getting this ‘at least till 2024’ info from though? I can’t see it anywhere else online. Anyone else found anything?

  90. Official response from DIT.

    Thank you for your email of the 8 September enclosing a query about the Youth Mobility
    Scheme and the UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement.

    Our ground-breaking free trade agreement with Australia is the first trade deal negotiated from scratch by the UK since we left the EU. It will deliver benefits to people, businesses and communities throughout the country, and I am heartened to read that you want to take advantage of one of the many opportunity it affords.

    As you set out in their email, the UK and Australia will make changes to the Youth Mobility schemes so that they are available to people aged 18 to 35 years inclusive for a total stay of up to 3 years. This also includes removing requirements in Australia for UK nationals using the Working Holiday Maker programme to undertake specific types of work, for example on a farm.

    We are currently working with the Australian Government on the next steps required to implement these commitments and once further changes have been made to these schemes they will be publicised.

    The operationalisation of the new commitments on the Working Holiday Maker programme is ultimately a matter for the Australian Government and we would recommend consulting the Australian Department of Home Affairs website for the latest visa information including eligibility requirements.

    The UK and Australia will continue to review mobility arrangements, in line with their respective immigration systems, with the aim of further enhancing the ability for citizens to live, work and travel in each other’s country on a mutually advantageous basis.

    And I can reassure you and your constituents that we are working to bring the UK-Australia FTA into force as early as possible so that UK citizens and businesses can reap the full range of benefits across the deal.

    So reading between the lines, it’s up to the Australian Government to decide when it comes int affect.

  91. Thanks for the update again Bradley, I’m just hoping this is done by September next year for me personally as I turn 31 in august. As I plan to leave after I’m 31!

  92. Hola! Soy una española de 34 años que esta pensando en solicitar la WORK AND HOLIDAYS, sé que han prolongado el visado hasta los 35 años, pero no sé si para ciudadanos españoles esto es posible o se mantienen la solicitud para personas de 18 a 30.

    Gracias.
    Un saludo.
    Patricia.

  93. Hi, I’m Italian, just turned 35. I got my first WHV back in 2017, as the age limit recently changed, will I be able to get a second WHV? I didn’t not complete 88 days of farm work. Thanks

  94. My god this thing is taking forever. Albo keeps talking about letting more immigrants in but putting these plans into effect seems to be taking forever

  95. Hi providing that the age limit increase to 35 years old for UK citizens is taking its time and it is uncertain of final dates. Are there any other options for 31+ year olds to come to Australia to work? IS permanent residence the only option?? would love to know more struggling to find info online
    thanks 🙂

  96. I’ve given up on this. There’s patience and then there’s being realistic. I turn 36 in August next year so time is of the essence. Absolute joke.

  97. Something I can’t seem to find out is:

    I am currently 31 years old (UK). If the trade deal officially goes through and I am then 32 years old, I can get the 1st WHV and once it ends I’ll be 33. In that time frame, will I still be able to get the 3rd one if I am over the age of 35?

    Or does it basically mean I have to get all 3 visas applied for and worked through before I am 36?

    I desperately want to go to Aus and hopefully get PR there. This country has had it I’m afraid.

    Thanks 🙂

  98. Hello

    I have my first year visa accepted, and my entry date is before 10th December 2022.

    I am going to struggle to make it out there before this date this year due to my current situation.

    Am i able to push it back to next year, Feb/March time?

    Please let me know if/how i can do this

    Thanks!
    James

  99. Hi there, I’m from Ireland and looking to move to Australia on a WHV but want to take my wife and 3 kids with me , is there a different visa for familys? Cheers

    • That article just says that the political situation in the UK “could lead to further delays” and that there are concerns about it. It also mentions that Albanese “said he would be speaking to Liz Truss’ successor about having the appropriate parliamentary processes moved through their respective parliaments.”

      So there are no confirmed delays.

      I appreciate that you’re frustrated and want to vent but maybe you could take it easy on the negative posts. We all want the same thing which is for this deal to go through ASAP and get where we want to be so maybe you could consider the effect your posts might be having on other people’s outlooks.

  100. Just a thought, but hear me out hahaaha…

    Should we all write letters to the PM asking him if he would kindly sign the agreement so some of us can leave UK to go somewhere better?

  101. I am Canadian, applied for 1st year WHM at 35 (the day before I turned 36). I was granted it and 11 months has passed. I am now 37 and going to Aus in the next month (before entry expiry). Assuming I complete farm work while there, can I apply for a second visa?

  102. Hello I’m 34 years of age, and I’m wanting to go on a working holiday visa to Australia whats the age limit I was going with a company but thry said thry are waiting for new visa to be despatched any other visas thaf I could apply for to get me out there.

  103. The JSCOT report on the UK-Aus trade deal is due to be released tomorrow.

    Once the report is out the Australian government can ratify their side of the deal. If the same rules apply as the submarine deal they don’t even need to respond to the report before ratifying.

  104. I’m 29y/o from UK and have received my first WHV.
    I’m desperate to leave UK and go out to Aus. I’m thinking of going after Christmas.
    However I want to stay for the 3 years (no farm work) rather than 1 year with farm work still in place.
    Is it risky to go hoping for the new change to occur at some point in my first year during 2023? I really don’t want to come back after 1 year.

    • Karl

      The necessary work is only 88 days and it doesn’t have to be farm work. There’s a list of all of the types of work that meet the requirements online.

    • Hi Lee

      To ratify it would mean they sign off on their side which would put it half way towards entering into force. So I hope they do ratify their side.

    • I saw that too. From what I understand he’s just voicing (a justified) opinion. The deal really is much better for one side than the other. Fortunately for us it’s likely to have zero impact. The current UK Prime Minister has already said that the deal is bad for UK farmers but the government will be going ahead with it.

      Long story short; the ramifications of the UK dropping out of this deal – not just with regard to Australia but every other country it needs to negotiate deals with in the future – are not worth it.

      So it will be going ahead.

  105. The JSCOT has published their report on the UK-Aus FTA

    This is recommendation 2:

    8.42
    The Committee supports the Free Trade Agreement between Australia and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and recommends that binding treaty action be taken.

    This was pretty mush inevitable but still encouraging.

  106. And here is the bit relevant to us:

    Working Holiday Maker Program Visa and Youth Mobility schemes

    6.192 The Parties permit citizens aged between 18 and 35 to participate in their
    respective Working Holiday Maker and Youth Mobility schemes and remain
    in the country for a maximum of three years without being required to
    undertake specified work during their stay. Individuals under either scheme
    could apply to switch to an alternate visa route where a longer length of stay
    may be granted, subject to meeting the relevant criteria.257 The AUKFTA
    provides for an increase of the existing cut off age for these schemes to 35.

    Nothing on date of implementation but it’s acknowledged at least.

  107. Could someone answer this for me please?

    I’m 31 years old from the UK.

    If the deal goes through while I am 31yrs old and I apply for my first WHV and get it, for the 2nd and 3rd WHV, do I still have to be under 35 years of age?

    Basically, do I have to be under 35yrs old when applying for my 3rd WHV?

      • This would include the 3rd WHV?

        What I’m trying to understand is, if I was 36yrs old and had already had my 1st and 2nd WHV at ages 32 and 33 say, I would then be too old at 36 to apply for my 3rd one?

        • The WHV is available for those aged 18-35 inclusive. So at 36 you would be too old. At 35 and 363 days you wouldn’t be.

          If the necessary work requirement isn’t removed immediately (which is very possible, almost a certainty from what I’ve read) you’d also need to have done that in both your first and second years.

  108. Thanks!

    The relevant parts from the article for everyone else:

    “Senator Farrell said he had informed UK Secretary of State for International Trade, Kemi Badenoch, the government was in a position to have parliament pass the bill next week.”

    “The agreement will be in force after Australia and the UK have confirmed with each other in writing that they have completed their respective domestic requirements.”

    So Australia could ratify their side next week but we don’t know when the UK will take care of theirs. Hopefully soon. Unless otherwise agreed upon the agreement will actually enter into force one month after both sides have ratified the deal. Hopefully during that time we’ll get some answers about the age extension.

  109. Hello, my girlfriend did a 1 year Australia visa and did not complete her farm work. Is she able to apply for another visa? I heard they are granting “do overs” due to covid/ lack of workers. Is this correct?
    We are Canadian. Thank you!

    • Agree with you there Losing hope! We just want to know when the age changes come into effect. I couldn’t care less about how much beef and lamb will be exported or imported into each of the countries lol

  110. So, when the deal is ratified on both ends, how long does it take for the visa age change to come into effect?

    Are all parts of the deal instant after ratification or will they introduce certain things first? I get that it’s the trade part that’s the most important for the countries and the visa age limit change is probably the least of their worries.

    • We don’t know yet. It will come into effect within two years of the FTA entering into force.

      So could be 01/01/23, 01/01/25 or any time in between.

      Because it’s the first WHV to have the necessary work removed – and it was suggested that the impact of that be tested before it comes into effect – it may be delayed.

      I have no information on the technicalities of it but I’m hoping that the age change and necessary work removal can be done separately.

  111. Both countries have made it abudantly clear that they need more skilled workers and migration, so I am hoping it is changed ASAP!

    • I haven’t looked into it recently but if it’s expected to enter into force on January 1st it would need to be before then and probably before Dec 1st. As per the agreement signed earlier this year it enters into force one month after both sides are ratified unless otherwise agreed upon.

  112. I just had a look and couldn’t find any news on it. It’s worth keeping in mind that this deal isn’t very popular in the UK so the government will probably be inclined to keep things quiet until it’s signed to minimise bad press.

    News of the Australian side getting signed had the UK farmer’s lobbying group complaining again. So don’t be surprised if news of its finalisation comes suddenly.

  113. If the finalisation happens and the trade deal comes into affect – I’ve heard people say that certain aspects of the deal could be implemented at different times – if the deal is meant to benefit both countries greatly, then why would’nt they just do it all at once?

    I’m guessing the majority of us on here are literally only waiting for the visa age change.

    My mate left for Aus three weeks ago (Brisbane) on a WHV. He applied for I think 10 jobs over the course of a few days and 9 of them invited him for interviews….WOuld never get that here in the UK! Pay for jobs over there seems significantly higher, with basic jobs starting at like $20 an hour.

    I simply cannot wait to go now! The only thing is, once I get my WHV, I will sell all my belongings for the extra cash but I know for a fact I won’t want to come home. I hope I can get employer sponsorship for permanent residency there. I need a new start in life and to be honest, I deserve it.

    I’ve been so unhappy for the majority of my life and I’m 31 yrs old now…if I don’t get this opportunty to go, I’ve got nothing else going in my life. Still live at home, rubbish stressful job, ruined credit rating so will never be able to get a mortgage and single so cant move out and live on my own as this country is too expensive with crappy wages.

    Sorry to rant about my life story but, like many on here, we may never get the chance to do this if the government takes too bloody long 🙁

  114. I’m with you Dan. Can’t wait to go. Also still living at home and rubbish job. Need to change urgently.

    I’m remaining hopeful this deal gets implemented for a start date of 1.1.23

  115. What the Australian Government says about the date commencement for the new visa arrangements:

    “Australia and the UK have agreed to put in place new arrangements under the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program and Youth Mobility Scheme within two years of the entry into force of the Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (Australia-UK FTA).”

    So it’s confirmed that it will be within two years. That doesn’t mean it won’t happen immediately but also doesn’t mean it will. The wording from that article also gives the impression that both changes will start at the same time, which could delay things………………

    https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/whm-program/latest-news/arrangements-uk-passport-holders?fbclid=IwAR2ORDQ2UvEBxEqo3FLxIYvJMYxZKNNWZ2tCgYD8lvIEZKxJ0Fh7NUxJteY

  116. That guardian article is quite old, I wouldn’t put any weight onto that (as it was before the deal was ratified)

    I simply cannot wait that long if that’s the case. I need this to happen urgently :((

    Just going to cross all my fingers until things are more clear

    • A good course of action might be to contact the government and ask if they know when the age change will occur. Now that the deal is a month or so away from entering into force they must have an idea of when this will be.

      From my experience you will have to be persistent and talk to a few people before you get to the person who can give you answers.

  117. For many of us I’m sure this would be a fresh start at least…I just wish I’d made my mind up a few years ago about this and not left it too late to decide that this is actually what I want.

    I keep checking for updated news every day in the hopes that we can do this sooner rather than later 🙁

    • Page was last updated 14 November

      Also that includes the NZ FTA which is separate from the Australian one in terms of stages

      I wouldn’t put too much weight on that

  118. It’s called the Australia and New Zealand Bill so it looks like the one bill is intended to cover both FTAs. They may be ratified at different times but the necessary changes to British law seem to be getting made together.

    If they’re separate bills what stage is the NZ one at relative to the Australian?

    It also says “The Bill is now due to have its report stage and third reading on a date to be announced.”

    I can’t find an announcement of the third reading so it looks like it’s still in the report stage.

    If you can find anything to the contrary I’d be very happy though. I’d like to see this done soon.

    • “A-UKFTA will enter-into-force after Australia and the UK confirm with each other in writing that they have completed their respective domestic requirements.”

      The UK’s domestic requirement is the Trade (Australia and New Zealand) Bill getting passed.

      The UK government updates on that can be found here:
      https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152

    • So basically it could take forever seeing as it’s got to go through the House of Lords?
      What is the Royal assent, how long a process is that?

      • It could be finished in the HoC on the 12th or 13th of December as according to the link I posted as the “Report stage is usually followed immediately by debate on the Bill’s third reading.”

        How long it will take to get through the HoL is anyone’s guess at the moment but from what I’ve read the first and second reading stages can be over in a day. The committee stage starts two weeks after the second reading and lasts around eight days. The report stage usually starts 14 days after committee stage has concluded and can be spread over several days (but is generally shorter than committee stage).

        If there are no amendments to the bill in the HoL it goes for Royal Assent which is when some old billionaire whose father was also his cousin decides if it can become a law.

        So from when it goes to the HoL we’re look at:
        First and Second Reading – 2 days
        Committee Stage – 14 days + 8 days = 22 days
        Report Stage – 14 days + 6 days* = 20 days
        Third Reading – 1 day
        Royal Assent – ?

        Total = roughly 45 days to get through the HoL + Royal Assent

        If the report and third reading stages are completed on the same day, it goes immediately to the HoL and we count full weeks not working days 45 days from December 12th is January 26th 2023. So it could get royal assent a few days after that.

        *is an estimate given the information on the government website.

        This is all info I got from literally a few minutes of googling. For this site to have been saying “The age limit for UK passport holders will be increased to 35 within the next few months (hopefully by the end of 2022)” for a while now maybe tells us that it isn’t a good source of information.

  119. I don’t see this getting done until end of Jan unfortunately, the UK are dragging their heels and we all know they don’t like this deal. And even then, the age changes might not even come into effect. Might look at Canada instead

    Not holding my breath anymore

  120. Report stage/ 3rd Reading of the Aus/NZ bill is the 12th of Dec. With the procurement act 3rd reading on the 13th in the House of Lords. This will enact and superseed this bill.

    We might, just might. Get this done before Christmas should all be well.

    • Cheers Bradley.

      If I understand correctly does that mean the Procurement Act getting passed in the HoL will also bring the Aus/NZ bill into effect?

      • “The Procurement Bill is expected to repeal the Trade (Australia and New Zealand) Bill as enacted, although retaining the changes this Bill introduces.”

        I guess so?

  121. Losing hope….I can’t find any info on getting a WHV in Canada for UK citizens, I end up on those visa agency things. You got any useful links for that?

    Also, if anyone wants to add me on Facebook for a chat, you’re more than welcome to 🙂 I promise I’m not a weirdo

  122. Yes I am an aussie desperately trying to get the UK (crazy right)

    I turn 36 in August so hence why I’m so frustrated with the delays

    • I wouldn’t trust anything the Express says. It’s a rag and basically just a rip off of the Daily Mail. However, I believe more reputable news sources have reported a similar thing.

  123. Losing hope I really don’t know why you’re stressing about the UK! It’s an absolute *hitshow of a county.

    I assumed you were trying to get to Australia. Honestly explore the Canada option!

    • Couldn’t agree with you more Karl. I actually thought you (Losing Hope) were trying to escape the UK…not come to it.

      Economy is f**ked, housing market is, job market is horrendous, weather cant make its mind up, police are now woke and too afraid to do anything, stabbings in London left right and center, cant park anywhere for free except your own driveway. Did I miss anything out?

      But I guess it’s one of those Grass is greener things?

      • Agree guys, I must be mad

        Also I hear illegal immigration is rampant over there and the country is unrecognisable as a result

        Try and convince me otherwise haha

        • Net migration is at an all time high which would imply there’s still many good reasons to go to the UK.

          The UK isn’t unrecognisable, I recognised it just fine after five years out of the country. There were also crime waves before people started using the term “woke”.

          I think you’ll have a good time there. Change your place change your luck as the saying goes.

    • You’re welcome. It’s always good to have a plan B.

      To be honest the only thing I noticed as being different in the UK is that some people and media outlets now more openly display their bigotry and lack of compassion. Which is a disappointing.

      Oh, and you can get in trouble for holding up anti-royal signs which is both terrifying and hilarious.

      Having said that it’s one of the biggest economies in the world, has a lot of nice people, a lot of diversity, it’s pretty high up freedom indexes (not counting the royal nonsense) and even has a few days of sun a year. So it’s not all bad.

  124. Bradley

    I’m trying to read up on the Procurement Act and how it will enact and superseed the Aus/NZ bill. Have you got any links that would be useful? I think I’m probably looking in the wrong places. Thanks in advance.

  125. “It’s an exciting time to host Lord Ian Botham, the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Australia. We have huge momentum with the UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement due to enter into force early next year and CPTPP negotiations progressing. If you are a British company looking to expand then come to Australia!”

  126. I predict the deal will be ratified by the end of January and will enter into force 30 days after (end of Feb/beginning of March)

    I’m 34 and already had one WHV in Australia and I leave home to start travelling South East Asia at the end of January and praying the visa changes happen before June 2023 and I can apply for my 2nd WHV while I’m travelling.

    Does anyone know if I would be able to enter Australia on a tourist visa and apply for my 2nd WHV while in Australia? (Providing thebl changes have happened)

    Thanks
    Jonny

  127. Hi, I got delayed getting to Aus because of COVID. I’m just about to turn 32 and made it here for my first year WHV (UK citizen). It looks like I’m too old to apply for the 2nd year, is this the case? If so I won’t stress finding the right work.

    Hopefully the new 35 visa kicks in and I can switch over to that one, but guess no news on how that works yet?

    • Something to keep in mind is that India doesn’t currently have a working holiday visa arrangement with Australia so implementing it would require training, new digital infrastructure for processing and possibly recruiting and hiring new people.

      For the UK/Australia it requires changing a number in the system from 30 to 35 and no longer having to assess whether people have done 88 days of necessary work. So in theory it is much, much more simple. That doesn’t mean it will go through immediately but it will be a lot less hassle for both sides to implement.

  128. If the work requirement wasn’t being removed at the same time it would just be changing 30 to 35 in the system like they’ve done for five countries previously.

    From the response Bradely got from the British government it seems like the decision on when the age change happens is up to Australia. Australia needs more workers and people aged 30-35 are more likely to valuable skills. They lose some of the people doing the necessary work but also gain people with higher skill levels. From my point of view getting the age change done seems like a good idea. We’ll see what happens though.

    As you’re an Australian citizen have you considered contacting the government and asking them if they have a timescale in mind for the visa changes once the FTA enters into force? The government works for you after all and the fact that people are asking might just get to ear of the right person.

  129. Bradley

    Thanks for the quote and I think you’re right. I’m not an expert but from what I understand the Procurement Act gives the govt the power to change certain rules so as to meet the requirements of trade agreements. It’s effectively more powerful than the Aus/NZ Bill but will also retain the changes that bill makes.

    So as soon as the Procurement Act is passed the UK govt can make the changes necessary to be able to ratify the FTA. It looks like the Procurement Act still has to go through the House of Commons though and I don’t know how long that will take.

    • Hi everyone, I contacted my local MP and asked him the question regarding if the visa changes will happen straight away or if we would be waiting for up to 2 years from EIF and his understanding was that the changes would happen quite quickly. Hopefully this will give us all the news we need once UK finish the ratification ☺️

    • The committee stage has been completed but it was incorrectly marked as being in progress in the report stage, it looks like that was corrected. The report stage won’t be in progress until the 12th.

      The report stage is followed immediately by the third reading and then it goes to the HoL. Given that they’re just about to pass something that supersedes the Aus/NZ Bill it might fly through if we’re lucky.

  130. Jonny that is excellent! Thanks for taking the time to do that.

    Who is your MP and did they give any indication of what “quite quickly” means?

    • Hi Charles, my local MP is Ian Levy and I asked him if they visas would change straight away and his words were “that would be my understanding”

      It’s a positive thing if my MP doesn’t think there will be any delay to the visa changes, but again we just need to see it in black & white on the gov websites

  131. Hey Jonny, that’s very encouraging. Thanks again for asking.

    I also totally agree we need it in writing before we can believe it. The day the number next to British passports changes from 30 to 35 on the Australian immigration website I’ll be very happy.

    • When are you planning to go to Australia? I’m leaving UK and travelling Thailand and Vietnam at the end of January and going to just stay out there until the visa changes and head to Australia

  132. https://www.canzukinternational.com/2022/12/help-us-advance-free-movement-with-the-uk-australia-trade-agreement.html

    Very interesting page

    Therefore, CANZUK International is calling on Australian and British residents to use our online contact form and get in touch with the Australian and British International Trade Ministers. The online form includes a pre-drafted email emphasizing the need for freer movement between the two nations under the Free Trade Agreement

  133. I’ve submitted it as I agree with the principle. From what I understand from reading it though the letter isn’t intended to speed up the UK-Aus FTA entering into force but to show a desire for greater freedom of movement between the two countries.

  134. Thanks Charles, agree. At this stage willing to try anything to get clarity on the situation and speed it up, and we know know we can email the trade ministers directly now through this mechanism. Cheers

  135. The third reading of the Procurement Bill is currently underway in the HoL as is the report stage of the Trade (Aus/NZ) Bill in the HoC. So things are moving.

    • I don’t think we’ll hear anything this week both bills still have to go through the other house and get royal assent. They might move quickly but I doubt there will be any announcements re an expected date of ratification. I’m inclined to believe the government will keep quiet until it’s done. I might be wrong though………

  136. I’ve just found this thread and I’ve found it really useful. Fingers crossed the age limit increases in the first half of next year..

  137. Hey Guys,

    Big thanks to those of you posting updates and info, I’m another eagerly awaiting the age change and have been viewing this page often. In regards to the readings in the house of lords, do we know how many of those are required? The 2nd being scheduled for 9th Jan, do we think that is the final reading and final remaining stage of this process?

    Thanks again to all of you, as Ellie said it’s comforting to know there are so many of us in the same position 🙂

  138. Well, I think there’s no need to lose hope as this will definitely get done. Just not before Christmas by the looks of it. If anything now is the time to have more hope than ever before.

  139. There are two bills currently tabled that will allow the British Govt to ratify the FTA when one of them is passed: The Trade Bill and the Procurement Bill. The former started in the HoC the latter in the HoL. Once a bill is passed by one house it has to then be passed by the other before getting royal assent.

    The Trade Bill is the furthest along as it was passed in the HoC this week and is now going through the same process in the HoL.

  140. HOL second reading is booked for 9th January

    Was hoping for before Xmas! Best case we’re looking at is probably Feb at this rate! Snails pace

  141. The second reading of the Procurement Bill in the HoC is also set for the 9th of January. Looks like the government decided they needed a nice long holiday before they did any more work on either of these bills haha.

  142. I agree, it is wonderful because this has had zero impact on the FTA.

    First, he’s an MP which means he’s in the House of Commons. The HoC has already passed the Aus/NZ Trade Bill. So his vote against it did nothing.

    Second, the UK cannot pull out of this deal now without becoming a pariah. They will cause serious damage to their negotiating power in any deals they are currently working on and any they may want in the future. Their opposites from potential trade partners will be able to come to every negotiation able to demand very favourable terms as they will be able say that the UK has a record of pulling out of deals and can’t be trusted.

    This trade deal is happening. The only thing we need to be interested in now is when.

  143. I don’t want to get anybody’s hopes up but it’s worth keeping in mind that the UK and Australia don’t actually need the FTA to enter into force for them to increase the age on the WHV. The Procurement and Trade bills are required to allow trade to be carried out under the terms of the FTA but the visa age increase is an additional component of the deal that doesn’t require any new legislation. Look at the increases for Italy and Denmark in July.

    Just something to think and maybe contact your local politician about.

    • I didn’t know this! Is this why the visa age change could take a long time then?

      Why wouldn’t they just change it once the deal goes through?

    • Hey, the 2nd readings for both bills are on 9th January.

      The government’s have said they expect the deal to EIF in the first quarter of 2023 so by 31/03/23.

      I’m leaving the UK in January and travelling around South East Asia and hoping the changes will be made while I’m travelling.

      It’s frustrating we have to wait but fingers crossed over the next couple of months everything is finalised.

  144. The government also said it would be done by July 2022 but alas it wasn’t. You have to take everything they say with a grain of salt

    • To be fair, it was in the media but nothing in the government websites stated July 2022 but I know what you mean, a lot of kicking the can!

      I have just emailed scrutiny@parliament.uk and expressed strong urgency on the visa changes to happen. Worth putting it out there so they know people want it to happen asap

      • You’re right Jonny, it was the media (including this site) that was claiming July 2022. When you do a bit of digging you find they provided no evidence to support this and it was just speculation.

        That’s a good idea. I’ll email them too.

    • Merry Christmas Dan

      Hopefully in the next few months we will all be able to apply for our visas and celebrate!

      I actually just read an article in the guardian and Australia want to increase the age limit to 50 haha!?

    • When I see news like this it makes me question why they would wait up to 2 years to make the changes after EIF… Don’t want to get ahead of myself but this is a positive thing for us I hope

  145. I’m from Australia. That change of age to 50 won’t happen anytime soon (if at all). The tourism board has no voice in Australia. They cried during the harsh lockdowns here in Australia and still nothing was done. I wouldn’t get my hopes up.

    Lets concentrate our efforts into the 35 age increase. That’s what’s important

    • We just need to stay positive and hope both governments agree that the visa changes happening fast are a good move on both parties. 🙂

  146. An email someone (I think it was Bradley) received from the British government implied that the decision on the date of the changes was mostly up to Australia. Given how desperate they are for workers at the moment I’m expecting it to work in our favour.

  147. I called the Australian immigration office yesterday. They couldn’t tell me much but did say that the visa changes will happen within two years of December 2021. I’m taking that as another good sign.

    I got through to someone immediately. Should anyone else wish to call them to show more people are interested their numbers are:

    In Australia
    Phone: 131 881 ​​
    Outside Australia
    Phone: +61 2 6196 0196​

    I think I used extensions 1 then 3.
    According to the website you can contact them “Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm your local time”. So anyone in the UK shouldn’t need to worry about time differences.

    • I didn’t speak to a member of the government just someone who works in the deptartment of immigration call center. They couldn’t really tell me more than the information they were given.

      As you’re in Australia maybe you could ask your local politician what’s going on. They might give some more clarity to the situation and it would be very helpful for us all to know what they say.

  148. I’ve just trawled through all the bills currently tabled in the House of Lords and the first one they will be working on when they return from their holiday is the Trade Bill. I’m taking this as another positive sign. If there are no amendments made to the bill in the HoL it could go through much quicker than it did in the HoC.

    Where I did my research:
    https://bills.parliament.uk/

  149. It’s also worth noting that some bills can go from Second Reading in the HoL to Royal Assent in less than a week. So that’s something else to remain optimistic about.

  150. I have a proposal for everyone:

    The Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs is Andrew Giles. I propose that we all contact him asking something along the lines of:

    “How long after the the UK-Australia FTA enters into force will the age increase to 35 for the Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) be made for British citizens?”

    Maybe we should also mention that there are a lot of us keen to come and work in Australia. Given what Bradley learned from the British Government – that the visa changes will be at Australia’s discretion – Andrew Giles should have the most accurate information. It will also be good for him to realise that there are people out there who want these changes to happen ASAP. Never underestimate the power of a noisy minority!

    So there you go. Tweet him, email him, call him and ask your friends and family to do the same. You never know, a little bit of effort on our part might make all the difference and have us all where we want to be in a month or two.

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/andrewjgiles
    Email: andrew.giles.mp@aph.gov.au
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndrewGilesScullin
    Electoral Office Telephone: +61 (03) 9497 9783
    Parliament Office Telephone: +61 (02) 6277 7770

  151. Hey guys, does anyone know if on the new visas there is the same rule of only working for one employer for a maximum of 6 months? Or does this change?

    • They have relaxed the rules until 30/06/2023 so depending when the new rules come into force will determine if this will apply to the new visa 🙂 hope this helps

    • To add to what Jonny said: From what I understand the two changes are the age increase and the removal of specified work for British citizens. However, it is possible for employers to apply for an exemption if they want to keep you for longer than six months.

  152. So, as long as there’s no ammendments to things we could be looking at very early 2023 for the visa changes?

    Not trying to get my hopes up but do you guys think things kind of looking promising?

  153. Fingers crossed that’s what happens. I do think the next couple of months are going to be big for finding out more details and hopefully we get the good news we’re all hoping for.

    Looking at what we know, I think the trade deal with enter into force by March 2023 but don’t quote me on this.

  154. I agree with Jonny. I think EIF will be sometime between January 9th and the end of March. Some non-emergency bills have gone from second reading in the HoL to Royal Assent on the same day so you never know.

    • This is the things now, it’s all going to depend on the time between the remaining stages.

      Second reading we know is on 9th of January then hopefully the committee stage following shortly after.

      The report stage and third reading are usually on the same day.

      On other bills, do we know if the considerations for amendments and royal assent to be at the same time?

    • Haha, that’s a bit misleading. From the article:

      “Britain’s government is poised to miss its target to seal deals covering 80 per cent of its trade with the rest of the world by the end of 2022.”
      “… instead the UK has so far only made deals covering just over 60 per cent of its global trade, according to government officials.”

      With regard to the UK-Aus FTA we knew a couple of weeks ago that it wouldn’t be going through until 2023.

  155. I’m just clinging on to hope now, as it’s all I’ve got.

    I live with parents at 31 years old, I work a dead end job with no qualifications. Can’t afford to move out and live on my own on just over minimum wage. Credit rating absolutely ruined so will never get a mortgage in my lifetime.

    My goal now is to get a WHV (hopefully 3) and pray, and I mean pray I can get sponsorship or the likes to get permanent residency there.

    I hate my life at the moment and although Australia might not be for me, I’ll always be wondering what if should I choose not to at least try.

  156. Australia is a great place to live. Weather, pay, lifestyle is amazing all year round

    It’s very frustrating we have had to wait this long with no clear information of deadline in sight.

  157. Just a sea change, I have lived here in Australia my whole life and am bored now. Other than that Australia in my opinion is a much better place to live, the pay is much higher, weather is better etc

  158. I tried to make a bigger post about this but it’s still awaiting moderation for some reason:

    The Australian Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs is Andrew Giles. I suggest we all contact him regarding when the age change will happen. The more people he hears from the more it will be in his mind.

    It’s the Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) we’re asking about for anyone unsure.

    https://www.andrewgiles.com.au/contact/

    He is also on Twitter

    • Definitely looks like it could be promising for the visa changes to happen fairly quickly if Australia are crying out for workers! Fingers crossed!!

  159. My best friend went to Australia on 6th November 22, took 2 weeks holiday. In the meantime he applied for 9 jobs I think and had interview offers for 8 of them before taking the one he wanted within a few days.

    He’s on really good money.

    He just says it’s completely different over there compared to the UK.

  160. I have done my 1st working holiday in Australia already and getting a job was so easy!

    This is great news to hear work is available and I can’t wait to get there! I’m staying positive with the visas and hopefully by next month we will know what’s happening!

  161. Losing Hope: I hope so too! 🙂

    Jonny: Are you from the UK? How did you find Australia, is it as nice as people say? Also, my friend is a warehouse supervisor and on about $70k, now I’m a supervisor in a supermarket and on nowhere near aS much as that 🙁

    • Yeah I’m from UK, Newcastle upon Tyne

      I absolutely loved Australia, so laid back and it’s got everything anyone would need!

      I did my farm work and I loved the experience! Got to meet so many different people from all over the world and I was making about $1500 per week & considering you can’t spend your money in the outback I was able to save plenty!

      When are you thinking of heading over?

      • Ah cool. Don’t think I’ve heard of anyone anywhere that’s had a bad experience of working in Australia!

        Pretty much as soon as the visa age changes, I’m applying for the visa. So hopefully that won’t take too long to be granted then I’ll try and book flights out ASAP.
        I want to get the 1st one applied for soon as so I don’t leave it too late to get my 3rd one before I turn 36 if that makes sense.

        My friend said if I look for work close to where he is, I could possibly stay in his and his wife’s spare room if I struggle to get sorted myself. I’d rather do it on my own for the experience, but it’s good to know I won’t be totally homeless

  162. Australia pays exceedingly well

    I don’t know too many people here who are poor or broke. Everyone has a very high standard of living

  163. This is all sounding very positive!

    Just a reminder to contact Andrew Giles and ask him when the age change will happen for anyone who hasn’t already. He should be back in the office today.

    Thanks to everyone who already has. Never underestimate the power of a noisy minority to make a change!

    https://www.andrewgiles.com.au/contact/

  164. This is all sounding very positive!

    Just a reminder to contact Andrew Giles and ask him when the age change will happen for anyone who hasn’t already. He should be back in the office today.

    Thanks to everyone who already has. Never underestimate the power of a noisy minority to make a change!

    A link to his contact details can be found in my previous post.

      • Hi everyone,

        I have just seen a screenshot of an email that someone posted on Facebook and it’s a reply from the Australian department of foreign affairs advising the changes will happen within 2 years of EIF and said they expect the changes to become live between Q3 2023 and Q1 2025.

        I’m not sure what to think of this because surely the FTA will be in force before Q3 2023?

        Not the best news but I’m not sure if this department just take orders from the Government? So, maybe they just don’t know much more than we do?

    • Yeah it’s not what I want to hear either however, it wasn’t a definite just what they expect.

      The page is Australia backpacker’s info

      I think it’s both governments that will make the decision and the last thing was they expected the deal to enter into force by Spring so that’s the end of Q1 so not sure why they are saying Q3 :/

  165. There was a commentator on here before who contacted a UK minister and said that once the deal entered into force the visa age changes would happen quickly. There’s so much misinformation with this, it’s so hard to plan your life. This is become a joke.

    • Yeah that was me I contacted my local MP and that’s what he said.

      This is why I think it’s best we just wait for an official announcement as there is a lot of conflicting information out there.

      Fingers crossed we hear something worth getting excited about soon.

  166. Barring anything totally unexpected the FTA will enter into force in Q1 2023. The only step remaining is for the Trade Bill to get passed by the House of Lords and get Royal Assent. Given the time other bills have taken from second reading to Royal Assent this could be anytime between mid-January and mid-March. Even if it were to take as long as the slowest bills passed last year (which I think is unlikely) it would still be passed in Q2. I don’t think the issue is when the FTA goes through but when the governments decide to implement the visa changes.

    Jonny, was that email from the Dept of Foreign Affairs sent recently?

  167. Yeah I agree, the big question is when does both governments want to actually implement the visa changes.

    I’m hoping behind closed doors they have already decided they will make the changes quick.

    Yeah, looking at the screenshot the email was sent a couple of days ago. :/

  168. Extremely disappointing news if true.

    Looks like I’ll have to apply for the Ireland or Canada WHV in the next couple of weeks.

  169. Surely the fta for 2025 is more to do with the deal with the meat trade as that’s gonna take a while to come into affect and plan ?

    Wouldn’t of thought they would change the 35 cap within the year as they’ve done that with other countries so can’t see that being an issue.

    The 3 years without farm work work is the issue I’m worrying about as I will have to farm for 3 months then hope deal comes in time for the 3rd year.

    Everything’s hearsay until it official so let’s hope we get the news in a week or two.

    • I agree Lee, the issue is probably scrapping the farm work whilst the agriculture sector is crying out for backpackers. However, they have introduced other countries in the WHM scheme so I’m hoping this should fill the gap a bit.

      We all need to just wait and see what both governments officially announce when the FTA comes into force I guess. Fingers crossed

  170. First comments for this age change were July 2020. It is now Jan 2023 and this still hasn’t been changed yet. I think everyone needs to plan for the eventuality that this won’t come into effect until 2025. It’s becoming a farce.

  171. I always think of the worst so anything better is a bonus – I am trying to stay hopeful that the age change will come into effect soon. Like you say, it was pretty much first discussed in 2020 so they may think to themselves that it’s been long enough now so lets just change it now.

    Thinking of changing my name to ‘Clinging on to hope’ lol.

  172. Hi everyone,

    I have emailed my Local MP again to ask for some kind of inside information haha.

    The last time I emailed him he advised once the FTA was in force we would be able to go by the new visa rules and his understanding was the changes would be made straight away, however what we are reading online is conflicted what he said.

    I have asked the direct question of why would either government delay making the changes happen straight away.

    Also, I have asked if there is an specific dates being talked about regarding when they want to make the changes.

    Let’s see what comes back.

  173. Unfortunately, being a UK citizen, I can only find that Australia will be the only country I could get a WHV (once the age change happens) in.

    According to a table of visa ages, all other countries require you to be 30 or under, if you are UK citizen that is.

  174. Johnny,

    Great idea. Thanks. Between your local MP and the Aussie Minister for Immigration we will hopefully get some clarification. If your MP doesn’t know for sure maybe he can direct you to someone who might or ask them himself.

    They both should be back at work on Monday.

  175. Hi,

    I completed a 1-year 417 WHV back in 2013 then left Australia and only returned as a tourist.

    I am 33 now and hoping to apply again when the age limit changes.

    Does anyone know if having already had a WHV in the past affects applying for 2nd under the new regulations proposed?

    Thanks in advance if anyone knows.

  176. Well, I thought I’d missed something there…I thought it had gone through and was confirmed. I almost cried thinking I could apply for my visa last night lol

  177. Hi,

    Previously left a comment but I can’t see it now, apologies if it comes up twice.

    I stayed in Australia on a 1-year WHV back in 2013. I am 33 now and plan to apply again when the age limit changes.

    Does anyone know if having previously held a WHV will have an affect on my application under the newly proposed regulations?

    Thanks in advance.

    Marc

    • Actually, I need 5 Signatures then they will update me and request another 21 signatures before sharing it more widely…

      I will let you all know when to start signing haha

  178. I’ll sign it when you get it up

    At this stage I’m not putting too much mental energy anymore into this visa situation, it’s better to just have no expectations and move on with my life as I’ve invested so much time into it for the last couple years.

  179. Great idea Jonny. I’ll be signing and asking all my friends and family to do the same. When do we need to start?

    Will you be posting it one the Facebook page where you saw the foreign affairs email too?

    • This is where I’m at with it…

      “5 people have supported your petition so far. We’re checking your petition to make sure it meets the petition standards. If it does, we’ll publish it. This usually takes a week or less.

      Once your petition has 21 signatures it won’t be able to add more until it’s been checked. So, please wait until it’s been checked and published before sharing it with lots more people.”

      Just need to wait for it to be published so as soon as they email me I will let you all know when to sign

      Charles – yeah I’m going to share it on all the Australia pages I can find. One of them have 239k followers so hopefully will get plenty signatures from this.

      It’s worth a shot

  180. Definitely worth a shot!

    Cool, I’ll wait to hear from you when I can sign.

    The second reading in the HoL is today. Let’s hope they have no amendments.

  181. What’s the odds by the end of today the reading never happens? Based on how everything has been handled by the UK government, its possible

  182. Watched part of the live feed today while they was going back and forth they mentioned that the committee stage and 3rd reading would be done over the next few weeks

    • I agree. If the third reading is a few weeks away we’re looking at late Feb early March for it to be passed and EIF a month later. Both sides can agree to EIF sooner so there’s a possibility it could happen immediately after receiving Royal Assent. They don’t exactly need extra time to prepare for it, it’s not like it will have happened suddenly .

  183. Losing hope, while I was watching they kept on mentioning how Australia have had a such a good deal and the U.K. haven’t and how the meat market especially is going to hurt local farmers and carbon footprint a lot of them wasn’t happy. So I think this is why it’s took so long and even watching the live feed could tell they was dragging their feet on it.

    You can watch it via Twitter or Facebook page, but again didn’t really mention anything mainly the meat produce. But like I said they’re looking to get it sorted in the next few weeks. It seems. One mentioned that they hope to get 2/3 of the deals done in the first quarter of the deal. (USA,China,Australia/New Zealand)

    • One of the lords did mention the visa briefly and he said it’s a great thing and they hope to increase the ages with other countries when negotiating trade deals.

      No info on when it will happen but at least they are very positive about it

      • That is positive. Did you catch their name by any chance? Given that now is the time the lords will be making amendments to the bill it might be worth trying to contact them. I’m not sure if this bill covers the WHV (I doubt it) but if we can get the ear of one person who already views it positively it could make some difference. They’re in the government talking to people very day after all.

  184. Australia definitely did not get it done in two weeks.

    The bill was first tabled in February 2022 in Australia and didn’t get passed until November 16. It took the Australian JSCOT two and a half months alone to process it. The first reading of the bill in the UK was May 2022.

    Both governments have taken their time with this.

  185. This is all looking good. Committee stage is coming much faster than average for non-emergency bills.

    With regard to us getting an answer:

    I called the office of Andrew Giles (the Immigration Minister) today. The person that answered wasn’t able to give me any information other than what is already online. When I asked if he is able to make any decisions regarding when the age change happens they responded “I’m not able to answer that”.

    Now is the time to start making some noise. If they get more calls regarding the age change for Brits it should get pushed up the chain. So if you can I’d encourage everybody to give the office a call and ask when it will happen. The previous immigration minister was first to announce the age change for Italians and Danes so this is where the announcement regarding ours should come from.

    Andrew Giles Office: +61 (03) 9497 9783

    10pm UK is 9am in Melbourne where his office is located.

    • It’s withing the normal time frame and not delayed.

      Also, the next two stages happen at the same time (report stage and 3rd reading)

      Then it’s royal assent.. so we aren’t far away now 🙂

  186. Committee Stage can last up to a week and then Report Stage occurs once again, 2 weeks after that! I think a reasonable time frame would be for this bill to be done by end of Feb/ early March best case scenario.

    Will have to wait and see though however, as this thing has taken its time!!

  187. I think as we’ve been waiting so long for this, even a few weeks is seen as a long time.

    I’m optimistic we will be hearing some good news by March. Still a bit of time away yet but at least it’s getting somewhere now In my opinion.

  188. An ideal outcome would be they flick the visa switch to 35 at 01/03/23. But seeing as how this has been handled and all the waiting and misinformation, it would be just my luck that its 2025 instead.

  189. Thanks Jonny, appreciate you doing this. Unfortunately I’m in Australia and cannot sign, but hoping it gathers momentum.

    Cheers

  190. I’ve viewed the petition on the map and noticed there are a few signatures near me. Gwent, Ogmore and Caerphilly. I’m in the Vale of Glamorgan. Just wondered if it’s anyone on here? Would be good to connect.

  191. I hate to bring down any optimism within this group but I also ended up contacting the Australian department of foreign affairs and trade and they also confirmed in writing that the age changes would happen sometime between Q3 2023 and Q1 2025.

    So it appears it is not as simple as just ‘changing the ages over to 35’

    =/

  192. Can you copy and paste the email here? It would be interesting to see the wording.

    With regard to the age change: it’s just changing the number from 30 to 35 in the system at the same time as the partner country. It’s been done five times already. The likely cause of the delay is the removal of the specified work requirement as there was discussion in the Australian government during Q1-Q2 2022 about the need to research its potential impact before implementation.

  193. Dear _______

    Thank you for your correspondence of 3 January 2023 to the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship,
    and Multicultural Affairs, the Hon Andrew Giles MP, concerning the implementation of the
    changes to the Australia’s Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa under the Australia-United
    Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (A-UKFTA). Your enquiry was referred to the Department of
    Foreign Affairs and Trade for response.

    The A-UKFTA will enter into force (EIF) after the completion of domestic legal and parliamentary
    processes by both Australia and the United Kingdom (UK). Australia passed the necessary
    legislation in November 2022. The timing for passing legislation in the UK is dependent on the UK
    Parliament and we hope this will occur as early as possibly in 2023.

    Once both Australia and the UK have completed their internal processes, we (Australia and the
    UK) then exchange notifications and the A-UKFTA will then EIF 30 days later (or another mutually
    agreed date).

    The changes to WHM visa will commence within two years of EIF. Therefore, we expect that the
    changes will be in place ona date between Q3 2023 and Q1 2025. For further information on the
    changes to the WHM, please visit the Department of Home Affairs website:
    https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/whm-program/latest-news/arrangements-uk-

    passport-holders.
    | trust this information is of assistance.

    Yours sincerely
    Edwina Stevens

    Assistant Secretary, FTA Services Branch
    Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

  194. Again seems like a generic reply and doesn’t really state if it will or not. Best thing is just waiting till it’s finalised. I can’t see why they wouldn’t change the age range as they need more people.

  195. It does seem like a generic reply. Saying something without saying anything really.

    Before anyone panics though; Q3 2023 is June this year. Four and a half months away and the same amount of time as from the start of September until now.

    EIF will most likely be very late Q1 or early Q2 2023 so changing the age three months after EIF probably seems pretty quick to both governments.

    Most importantly, I find this quite revealing; “we expect that the changes will be in place ona date between Q3 2023 and Q1 2025″. It’s their expectation, they didn’t say”It will happen between these dates”. So seems like they don’t have any concrete info yet either. Just like the Danish and Italian changes this could come out of the blue.

  196. Dan, you don’t just have to hope. You can contact your local MP to ask when it will change and express your desire for it be immediate. You can also contact the UK’s immigration minister.

    The petition is a great but it requires 100,000 signatures before all the MPs become aware of it. You can make one aware of the situation this week. I don’t live in the UK but have asked my family to contact theirs on my behalf.

  197. I will contact my local MP tomorrow.

    Been looking online to see if anyone is sponsoring jobs….I’m desperate but don’t know how it all works so gave up haha.

  198. Great! I look forward to hearing what they say.

    Sponsorship is a bit of a nightmare. Not impossible if you have a degree or trade but the easiest route is by going in on the WHV and then getting sponsored by a company in Australia (normally one you’ve already been working for). From what I understand at least.

  199. I have a degree and over 10 years of experience in finance, and I’m still finding it near impossible for any employer to sponsor me on a tier 2 visa in the UK.

  200. The deal will be done pretty soon and the UK’s bill passing process is not something we can have any impact on at this time.

    From now on I’m going to be focusing my energy on trying to get the age change done ASAP as that’s something we might be able to change .

  201. I’m sure this has been mentioned before, but what would be the reason once the deal is ratified/in place etc they wont just change the visa age limit there and then?

  202. There’s myriad reasons they wouldn’t immediately change the age; not feeling any need to rush or governments/civil services just moving slowly is a good example.

    I can only think of one reason where they might be in a position where they couldn’t immediately change it though: During the discussion around the FTA in Australia it was mentioned that the removal of specified work should be investigated to establish its impact before implementing it. However, there are two things I’m not clear on:

    1. Whether this is binding and must be carried out or is just a recommendation.
    2. Whether the age change and removal of specified work are coupled and must be changed at the same time or can be done separately.

    So there’s potential for delays coming from the Australian side but I’m not 100% certain. There’s probably someone on here better informed on this aspect of the deal than me so hopefully they can fill in the blanks.

  203. That just says that progress is slow not that progress isn’t happening. Remember that “slow” is subjective, it’s slow for us and the Australian government (now that they’ve passed their side) because we want it ASAP. Keep in mind too that the UK government has so far only taken eight months since starting proceedings on this bill, Australia took nine.

    It’s unrealistic to expect there to be any announcements in between stages. This is because between stages no work is being done on the bill or the what is isn’t ready for release. You can keep up to date with the process in the link in my previous post.

    For anyone who may be getting concerned by negative posts:

    The UK government are working on passing the bill needed to bring the FTA into force. There are a total of five stages left until the bill is passed and some of the stages often happen on the same day. The next stage is scheduled for the 23rd of this month.

    • It’s apparent that the UK government have been dragging their heels tremendously on this deal.

      The political turmoil hasn’t helped either with the changing of 3 heads of government in the space of months

  204. I’m literally leaving the UK on Sunday to start backpacking through South East Asia for several months so I’m hoping we get some news while I’m there otherwise I’ll be getting a tourist visa and just visiting Australia..

  205. Cheers Bradley! I’ll keep in contact on here while I’m away as I will be keeping an eye on any updates!

    Let’s all hope for some good news by March when the FTA comes into force

    • Cheers Lee! When are you doing it Lee?

      I’m going to open a YouTube channel to be fair if you guys want to follow it haha (I’ll post the link once I have got it going)

      • Not till September! Going to 3 months then east coast for a month then either work or farm work depending on what happens as I’m 31 in august! I’m just over thinking that there’s going to be loads of younger people and I will stick out like a sore thumb while travelling haha!

        And yes send it over.

  206. https://www.sheepcentral.com/australian-shearing-contractors-wait-for-uk-visa-rule-changes/

    Pretty good article, we aren’t just the only ones waiting for the visa changes with keenness

    ‘Ms Hiri said she knew of UK shearers and shedhands who wanted to come to Australia but could not because they were older than 30 years.

    “There are a few of them that want to come over, but can’t, because of their age and they’re unsure how to apply for a visa.”

    I have upmost faith in the Australian minister and him pressuring the UK government to get this through urgently. Its dragged on for far too long

    • This is the kind of thing we need! Sectors crying out for the changes, not just us backpackers!

      Hopefully it will be heard by the government on both side and ensure the changes happen this year! Fingers crossed

  207. Or if they are concerned about the impact it may have on the farming side of by removing the farm work, why not lower the amount of farm work needed.

    If there are so many of us wanting to go then it wouldn’t be that bad in my opinion haha

    • I think they’d be more likely to change the age but keep the specified work. Which would be fine by me; it’s not all farm work and it’s only for three months.

      • Can they go against making the change around farm work or ‘specified work’? Having made the initial announcement that it would be removed?

        • It’s part of the FTA so I don’t think so. Unless there’s some provision that would allow them not to – like the negative impact on industry being too great. You’d need to read the FTA to be sure though.

  208. I’m in a similar situation as Jonny.

    Already completed my first year, without doing Farm Work.

    Me and my partner spent 9 months in North Queensland in Hospo and would have qualified for second year under these current conditions!

    We would love to go back to the place we worked and complete the 88 days but cannot, and we would stay longer we had such a great time!

  209. Lee, Jonny and Bradley

    This is what I’ve found re the removal of specified work:

    “The UK and Australia have agreed commitments that will result in unprecedented changes to existing Youth Mobility Schemes. These changes include making them available to nationals no older than 35 for a total stay of up to three years, without having to undertake specified work including regional work, for example on a farm. The change will be introduced within two years after entry into force to monitor any impact on the agriculture sector and ensure alternative workforce opportunities are in place.”

    I find the wording pretty confusing. Are they going to introduce the changes and then monitor it? Or wait to introduce the changes and monitor things in the meantime? Also they refer to the “changes” – age and specified work – and then “change” – specified work only. So are they going to be made separately or together?

    https://www.dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/negotiations/aukfta/australia-uk-free-trade-agreement-negotiations-frequently-asked-questions-august-2022

    • Yeah I have read this and I think it will all happen at the same time but the date won’t be confirmed until the FTA is in force.

      Australia is crying out for skilled and unskilled workers so hopefully behind closed doors they are planning on making the changes happen fast to help tackle the work shortage.

      The “within 2 years” timeframe has been set like this since they originally announced the changes so hopefully since then they have a decision to announce:)

  210. Thanks again for the update! It again it seems like they dangle the carrot stick in front of you but not telling you exactly when or what exactly is happening, I don’t think they even know until the bill has been completed, but I guess it’s got to come from Australia also.

    Anyone know when they next stage will be completed or Scheduled for ?

    Think it’s also true once it’s complete we have to wait a month also after that ?

  211. The date for the report stage hasn’t been set yet but expect it to be announced in the next few days. The report stage and third reading normally happen on the same day so there’s just that, a day bouncing between HoC and HoL for the amendments to be approved and then royal assent.

    The FTA states that it will enter into force one month after both sides have made the necessary changes to their laws unless otherwise agreed upon. So they could agree that it will EIF the day after royal assent, we just don’t know yet. I would assume it will be a month after though and be pleasantly surprised if not haha.

  212. Committee Stage can last up to a week in HOL.

    So don’t expect any update until that unfortunately.

    Some Labour Lord (shock) has come with a load of amendments to the bill, so have to see how it plays out.

  213. I had the amendment count (including joint amendments) at Labour 28, Lib Dems 7, Tories 3.

    A lot of the Labour lord’s amendments are impact assessments that take place after EIF, others were small changes to wording. The impact assessments relate to things like climate change, labour rights and the NHS.

    For example:
    “Within one year of the passing of this Act, the Secretary of State must publish—
    (a) a review of the lessons learned from the negotiation of the procurement
    Chapters”

    I was surprised the Tory Lords didn’t want investigation into the impact on British farmers. They must have been too busy selling faulty PPE or something……………….

  214. Yeah, hopefully this stage will go quickly.

    Taking the opportunity to make these amendments makes sense if I’m being honest. The FTA might benefit me personally but there’s not a lot of good evidence that it will benefit the majority of British people. Wanting assessments of it’s impact that can inform future trade deals seems reasonable.

  215. These amendments should have been put in place in the HOC.

    People in the HOL have agendas and know they can stall things. These “assessments” are just one way of doing that.

    They know as soon as this deal is in place Brexit is complete and there will be no going back. Some people in some quarters don’t want that.

    • The report stage is said to usually be 2 weeks after committee stage but doesn’t usually take as long as it does in HOC.

      To be fair, we are at the report stage/third reading already this month.

      It’s going light speed compared to when it was in HOC.

      Fingers crossed guys!!

      • Just a reminder: the Australian Joint Standing Committee on Treatise (JSCOT) started their review of the FTA in March 2022 and took so long that it wasn’t completed before the election which the then-government decided to hold before completing their side of the deal for some reason. The new government then didn’t convene a new JSCOT until July 2022 after which they promptly went on holiday. They also took another two week holiday during a scheduled two week sitting period for the JSCOT because the Queen died and then finally got around to issuing their report in November.

        I’m not saying this to defend either side, it feels like they’ve both taken a long time to get this deal finished. I think it feel that way because I’m waiting for something that will personally benefit me though. They’ve both passed other bills that have taken similar, equally long, amounts of time in the last year and I haven’t felt remotely frustrated by it. This deal is very close to EIF now, all we have to do is wait a little bit longer.

  216. There generally aren’t announcements between one stage and the next. They carry out a stage and then there is silence until the date of the next is announced. Anything relevant to the bill itself won’t be reported until the stage is complete.

    • Good for you British, but I’d advise against going to New Zealand. There’s a reason why there’s over 1m new Zealanders in Australia, the job situation overall over there is very weak

  217. I am in the same boat waiting for the age to increase. I see NZ will be “no later than 2024” – does anyone know if you’ve already had a year visa for NZ then you will be able to go back for the remaining 2? I know Aus are implementing this but can’t see it anywhere for NZ. Just trying to get options.

  218. Here’s a quote from one of the members of HoL from the Committee Stage on Jan 23rd:

    “We can see the timing a little more readily now: all being well, we should complete the passage of this Bill and I hope it might reach Royal Assent if not by the end of February then certainly very early in March.”

    This obviously isn’t a guarantee but might give some idea of what to expect.

    https://hansard.parliament.uk/lords/2023-01-23/debates/827759EE-8659-4204-BB1A-FA1618AF7B5F/Trade(AustraliaAndNewZealand)Bill

  219. Wow…

    It’s a constant guessing game as to what the UK government will do

    Lots of ‘ifs’ and no concrete dates. Same as what the last 2 years have served up since the announcement of this age change

  220. I had to leave NZ after a month in 2020 so I hope they will me apply again for the remaining 2 years if their changes come into force before Australias.

  221. There isn’t really a TL:DR version I’m afraid. But it was said during a discussion about an amendment. Best thing is to Ctrl+F part of it if you want more context. It was fairly early on in the meeting.

  222. Charles, the paragraph after the one you quoted says July/August/September:

    The Procurement Bill in the other place still has a substantial amount of work to be done, and doubtless it will return here with amendments. That being the case, I suspect it would be rash to assume that it would pass before late May at the earliest, especially since the Session is to run longer. The Procurement Bill brings its provisions into force two months after the Bill itself is enacted, so in my view we could be in July at the earliest, and maybe in August or September, before the relevant provisions and the repeal take effect.

  223. There hasn’t been official confirmation from the UK Parliament regarding the following (at least none I’ve found) but here is some encouraging quotes from the Aussie agriculture minister:

    “I met with the House of Lords committee that was considering the legislation that underpins the UK Free Trade Agreement while I was in London.”

    “And since I’ve returned that committee has actually passed and recommended the support of the legislation without amendments.”

    “So it’s through the committee stage. It now has to go back to the House of Lords for its third reading.”

    https://www.beefcentral.com/trade/watt-reports-positive-progress-on-uk-fta/

  224. So does this mean there were no ammendments our side?

    If so, does that mean the consideration of ammendments phase will be tricked off immediately once it reaches that stage?

    Or have I got the wrong end of the stick completely lol?

    • Based on how everything has been handled from the UK government, it will be a long while before we hear anything and kept in the dark

  225. Dan

    If what was said is true then yes and if not; consideration of amendments normally only takes a day anyway. Report stage and 3rd reading are usually on the same day but in some cases report stage can go for a few days. A lack of amendments should keep it short though.

    I’d expect a date to be set for the report stage this week. Let’s see what happens 🙂

  226. Hi guys, I have been following this forum for quite a while hoping to gather some insight into when the visa age will be lifted. I am 32 years old and live in Sydney, but really want to move to London with my friend who already lives there (she has dual citizenship). It feels a little hopeless just waiting around for this age thing to take place. I am aware other countries like France and Ireland already have this visa age in place, but I don’t want to live somewhere that I don’t know anybody.
    Does anyone know if theres any other possible visa I could apply for in order to live and work in the UK. From what I can see, it is very difficult to work over there unless you have prior work lined up.
    Thanks in advance!

    Steph

  227. I dunno, I like to think that seeing as how quickly its moved through the different stages we are going to be pleasantly surprised. I think all of a sudden its going to pass and come into force sooner than we expect.

    Or am I just being too optimistic ?

    Hope is the only thing I’m holding on to at the moment. My mate whose in Brisbane said its a shame I cant go now as he has a job opening where he works. Seeing as he’s in charge of hiring, I could just walk straight into it.

  228. You’re right to be optimistic Dan; the Trade Bill is very close to being passed. The HoL acknowledged that even with the Procurement Bill superseding it the Trade Bill is still needed to allow the FTA to start as soon as possible.

    A big issue with this has been that Australia took sooooo long to take care of their side. As the FTA overwhelmingly benefits the Australian economy the onus was on them to bring the necessary laws into force and they just dropped the ball over and over. The old government holding elections before their JSCOT could publish its report, the new government not forming a new JSCOT for TWO MONTHS after coming into power then immediately going on holiday and two months later shutting down again during a JSCOT sitting period are all examples.

    If you look at the UK parliament timings they started work on the Trade Bill shortly after Australia and then just paused it until Australia had finished mucking around. There was just no incentive for the UK to rush as their counterparts weren’t in a hurry to facilitate billions of additional trade for themselves.

    None of this really matters now though. It’s very close to getting passed and we’ll hopefully have more info about visas soon 🙂

      • I initially thought that it did too but if you look at the timings that just doesn’t seem to be the case. In fact, they restarted work on the Trade Bill during the latter half of the political turmoil. The UK govt essentially put the process on hold for four months from May to September while they presumably waited for Australia to show some indication that they wanted the deal to go through.

        I was incorrect in my previous comment though: I said that the UK govt waited for Australia to stop delaying before they restarted work on the bill. However, it actually seems like they got tired of waiting and and took the initiative to start the process without any indication Australia was making effort to pass their side. If you look at the time from second reading in HoC until now in HoL the UK’s time frame has been five months which is comparable with New Zealand.

        As Dan said: It’s quickly moved through the stages in UK parliament.

        • You can argue all you like

          The facts are that Australia is the only country keen to push through this FTA and the UK is the one holding up the show, with no clear end in sight. Even Australian diplomats have flown over to speed up the process.

          • I wasn’t arguing :). It’s all good, we want the same thing here.

            I was just pointing out that Australia made at least four major blunders that significantly held up the process and would have disincentivised the UK from rushing their side 🙁

            Well, the ministers didn’t travel specifically for that. They were traveling for EU trade talks and dropped by the UK.

            New Zealand are the real heroes in all this though. From starting work on their trade bill to it getting royal assent in five months. It’s very impressive and even quicker than the UK is going to be.

    • Haha thanks. That’s kind to say but I don’t think I know “so much”. Just what I manage to find with Google 🙂

      You don’t need any kind of prescience to know when it will be approved because that happened in December 2021 when both sides signed the FTA.

      But if you’re asking when I think it the Trade Bill will be made law: when it receives Royal Assent. Just like in Australia the UK Parliament announces the dates of each stage one at a time and as it hasn’t completed the penultimate stage the date of Royal Assent cannot be announced (if it will be at all).

      It’s very likely that the UK will do what Australia did and not announce a date for the bill to become law but just say that they “expect” it to pass during a particular week/parliament sitting.

  229. Hi everyone,

    I’ve been following this page for a while, thanks for all the updates!

    Looks like the report stage has now been scheduled for 14th March

    • Never mind, just seen it! Surely it’s not going to be that late!? I thought it was all going to be completed by Middle of March, guess not! The closest I’ve got to going to Australia is my new passport that will be coming soon….literally can not do a single thing else, just like many others on this forum….it’s kind of pi**ed me off now 14th March, what a load of shite

  230. Hahaha ok.

    I understand that you are feeling apathetic about this situation and that the reality of it is not meeting your expectations but getting personal is counterproductive. It’s probably a good idea to stop. Not for my sake but because it might deter someone else in our position with a genuine question or useful information from posting which would mean we all miss out.

    We all want the same thing. I hope we get good news and you feel better about all of this soon 🙂

  231. Losing hope it’s more reason why I want to leave the U.K. because of the government!, Charles has helped this group/forum massively with information just like everyone else. And everything he’s said has been true and fair. But to put your frustration with a comment like that won’t make things quicker or better.

    This is not benefiting any of us. But things we have to accept as it’s out of our hands.

  232. Thanks Lee. You and me both haha. For anyone looking for a reason to be optimistic:

    The terms of the FTA are that it will enter into force one month after both sides have implemented the necessary laws unless a different date is otherwise agreed upon.

    Like Emma I was also under the impression the UK govt had committed to EIF in Q1 2023 (although I don’t have a source to back that up). So it’s still possible it could start in Q1 if both governments agree to an earlier start date.

  233. Fingers crossed Charles. The Australian PM said in November 2022 that a trade agreement with the UK will be settled in the first quarter of 2023. This was in an article on Bloomberg, so hopefully an earlier date is agreed but both governments.

  234. I’m still confused on this. The EIF part, if it enters in to force at the end of March say, does that mean all parts of the deal become effective/law? or can certain bits (visa age) come into effect at any stage after?

  235. Dan

    The Trade Bill is pretty much focused on creating the laws necessary for free trade. Once it’s passed FTA will enter into force and then trade etc as lined out in the deal will be able to start. The visa changes are (probably) not one of the things that will change immediately.

    The interesting thing is that neither government needs to change any laws for the visa changes to happen. They could do it now if they wanted to they just happen to have agreed to do so after EIF of the FTA. So it’s not an issue of laws or needing the trade bill, they’ll just do it when they want.

    So the short answer is probably no, the visa changes won’t happen on EIF.

  236. I’m checking this every week at the moment for updates! Thanks guys for all the info.
    I’m 33 this June so have time on my hands but ideally i want to go this year and get at least 2 years out there. Sick of the UK – place has gone so off the boil

  237. I’m aiming for permanent residency at some stage but unsure of how to obtain it.
    I keep reading different bits of information but as an unskilled worker, I don’t even know if this would be an option

      • I have 16 years in retail in the UK. I am a supervisor so I’m one level below assistant manager.

        I will be doing it alone, no kids or partner. No criminal record etc.

        The information out there is confusing at times

    • Hi Dan, I’m in a similar situation. Trying to work out how to secure PR but not currently on any Skilled visa options.
      I’ve read that an option is to learn a trade (carpenter, electrician etc) out in Aus. Check out pathway to Aus. It is very expensive though and will take a few years. There is high demand for tradies out in Aus however.
      Another option is to just reach out to employers if they offer sponsorship. Most will say no but you might luck out with a couple. Otherwise, best bet is to just get out there and network like crazy. You never know what opportunities might come up.

      • I’ll check it out!

        I know for a fact that if I go out on a WHV, whether it’s one or three, I won’t want to come back to the UK.

        Although it would be one hell of an experience, I’ll just come back to the UK depressed and back to where I started… Living at home with my parents and stuck in a dead end job

    • The procurement bill has its report stage on 23rd Feb so that might pass sooner and supersedes the UK-Australia trade bill anyway, right?

      • I don’t fully understand how the intricacies of the Procurement Bill relate to the FTA but my understanding is that it will yes. Any amendments will have to go back to HoL for approval though. I called HoL when the Trade Bill report date was announced and got told they were busy with some big bills which is why the Trade Bill got pushed to March. So that could impact the Procurement Bill.

        I couldn’t find an official date for the Procurement Bill but its news page says it’s expected for the 23rd so hopefully they’ll set a date soon.

  238. The Committee Stage of the Procurement Bill is finished according to its page. Still waiting for a Report Stage date though.

    The Australian Ag minister said there were no amendments to the Trade Bill but it would appear there were so it will have to go back to HoC for a day or so after HoL finish with it.

    https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152/news

  239. Hi, I`m thinking to apply to the Working Holiday VISA to Australia, I`m Italian and I have 31 years old, but I`m married and my husband is Argentinian, also 31. Is it possible to apply and go together?

    Thank you !!!

  240. So, how’s everyone’s level of optimism that this deal is getting done before June? Or done at all?

    Seems it’s been swept under the rug by the UK government

  241. To anyone who may be confused by this:

    It hasn’t been “swept under the rug”, that’s not how bills work haha. The date of the next stage of the Trade Bill is March 14th.

    It’s sitting on top of the rug in a queue with other bills.

  242. Well, when they do decide to change the age for the visas, I bet loads will apply and we’ll have an even longer wait on applications.

  243. I think the approval process is normally pretty quick, I’ve heard of some people even get their Aus WHV approved within 24 hours. I waited a week for my NZ one.

  244. Good to know!

    However, what’s baffling me is that apparently they don’t have to wait for this trade bill to pass to increase the visa age limits, they can up it at any time.

    Just wonder why they won’t do it now or should I say, haven’t already upped it?

  245. I agree Dan, I don’t understand why they haven’t already increased it. My friend is over there just now and said they are crying out for people/jobs so surely this would be a quick and easy solution for that!

  246. What cities are you all planning on moving to (if this deal ever gets done) I’ve been seeing the rental market is crazy in Aus but still desperate to go.

  247. Mitch – I’m planning on going to Brisbane as that’s where my friend is. He will be able to help me get things set up etc. But in all honesty, I don’t care where I end up, as long as it’s Australia…I could be in a tent on the streets for all I care haha.

    I’m happy to go to a hostel or even share a house with other people. I’ve been on a rental page that specialises mostly in rentals for backpackers, if I remember what the site is then I will share it here.

    There are some really nice rentals, and I’m talking houses not apartments or flats etc. I would like to rent a house with other people like me who have travelled from afar – I can picture it now…4 of us sat out on the porch sharing stories and chatting about how great Australia is.

  248. Hi, How long did it take for the age increase to 35 for countries like Italy, Ireland, Canada etc after both governments signed legislations ?

  249. Emma

    The MOU both governments signed says that they will introduce the age changes after the FTA enters into force. I don’t really get why both sides agreed to doing it that way. Why not after the deal was signed? At that point the FTA was past the point of no return.

    On the plus side the report stage and hopefully 3rd reading of the Trade Bill are in one week and the deal will be much closer to EIF.

  250. Australia Backpackers Guide:

    Do you have good reason to believe it will be this year? If so can you please share the evidence with us. So far your predictions have proven to be incorrect and you have never provided any evidence to back them up. I find it hard to trust any information you provide.

    Dan:

    The Danish and Italian age increase was announced by the previous Australian immigration minister online three months in advance. It wasn’t easy to find though. I don’t know about announcements from the other sides.

  251. All this waiting and waiting and waiting has really put me off this whole idea of moving to the UK

    Just came back from Asia and have now decided to move to VN instead and teach english. Straightforward process if you have a degree and online teaching certificate. Maybe this long delay has been in a blessing in disguise after all

  252. Next week will we find out if the agreement is signed and if so will that mean that the age change will happen this year ? Also can you apply for a WHV while in Aus on a holiday visitors visa or do you need to leave the country to apply ?

  253. Hi Mark, based on what I have been on twitter today the FTA is likely to be finalised by the end of this month but we are waiting to find out what date the FTA will enter into force (either 30 days later or on a date mutually agreed by both governments)

    However, the changes to the WHV can happen within 2 years of the FTA entering into force. We are all anxiously hoping for the changes to happen asap and be announced asap.

    • I received an email from the department of immigration and they said it will happen from 1/7/23 to sometime between 2025. So don’t hold your breath

  254. Emma

    Someone here, I think Jonny, was told by their local MP that their expectation was that the age change would be soon after EIF. If you look at the UK government ad I posted a few days ago they also mention the age change being soon when they could have not mentioned it at all

    We still need to wait and see but I think there’s reason to be positive.

  255. Unfortunately they’re not a good guide for us as the age changes were negotiated independently and weren’t part of an FTA. We’re in a different situation.

    However, what we do know is that all the laws are already in place to allow for an age change for Brits. To the best of my knowledge there’s nothing preventing it. It could, in theory, change on the same day as EIF. The age changes for the most recent countries, Italy and Denmark, were officially announced by Australia three months prior to the changes coming in effect so we might get a few months notice before increase for us. After they’ve been agreed the changes themselves are an administrative process as opposed to political one.

    They could actually do it now but the UK and Australia agreed to increasing the age (and removal of specified work) after EIF and it seems like they are sticking to it. I’m not expecting any news until after the deal is ratified at the earliest. That’s likely to happen this month though.

    • Yeah my local MP did say that however, in my opinion I think it’s possible for the changes to happen on 1st July and we will be notified once the deal if in force (next month hopefully) that means it give everyone 3 months notice and will be in line with other visas changing on 1st July last year.

      I really don’t see why they will wait as they need to workers in the country and even sheep farms were crying out for the changes to happen when I was reading online.

  256. I don’t see why they would wait either. The removal of specified work might be an issue as the Aussie agriculture industry will lose a lot of cheap labour they have historically been able to take advantage of (sometimes abuse). Given how close it is to EIF though I’m assuming most Brits have delayed applying until more news regarding the changes comes anyway so the impact to the ag industry might already have happened.

  257. NZ and UK are commencing theirs from the 1st July.

    Just shows that we don’t needs the Trade Deal in place for this to go through!! So someone is holding it up!

    Fingers crossed we get this done ASAP with Oz too!

  258. Amazing news for NZ! Does anyone know if you can apply for it again like you will be able to do with the new Aus one? I got a WHV for NZ in 2020 and only used one month before I came home, if I can get it again I will happily go there whilst I wait for Aus.

  259. Oooooo, a bit of positive news and some hope that, there is a small chance we all could very well be applying for our WHV this year!? – or have I completely misread the last few comments lol?

  260. It appears as if rules for Oz, Canadian and NZ workers is changing from the 12th April.

    “From 12 April, the annual allocation of visas under the Youth Mobility Scheme is increasing for Australian nationals (30,000 to 35,000) and Canadian nationals (6,000 to 8,000). Also, for nationals of New Zealand only:

    The age range is being expanded from 18-30 to 18-35; and
    the length of stay is being increased from 2 to 3 years.”

    https://www.freeths.co.uk/2023/03/10/latest-immigration-rule-changes-for-business-people-and-workers/

    • This is amazing news! I think it doesn’t mention the removal of farm work as it’s referring to people coming to the UK and they already don’t need to complete 88 days regional work.

      If this article is true then we should expect to see both government websites announce the changes happening on 12th April soon.

      I will be so happy if this is the case as I’m in Bali at the moment waiting for the changes haha!

      Fingers crossed everyone!

      • Hey Jonny!

        I’m also in Asia awaiting the changes, currently in Langkawi! Eagerly awaiting the confirmation date so I can arrange the visa and flights to Aus!

        Fingers well and truly crossed!!

        • Hi Mich! Good to see I’m not the only one haha!

          After reading the article again, it seems it’s referring to NZ for the ages changes but that’s strange as they just announced a few days ago it would be 1st July. Think we just need to get an official statement from the government but still very exciting!

          • Haha you’re not alone!

            Yeah it seems April 12th is for New Zealanders getting the visa for UK and July 1st for UK to NZ…seems unfair but still some positive news! Fingers crossed the Aussie visa is sooner than that and we can make our way over there :)!

      • How is it ? I want to go for a month or two but skeptical because of my age. Thinking everyone’s gonna be so much younger then me!

    • Yeah mate, you can apply for your 2nd and 3rd when the changes happen. I’m 35 at the end of the month and have done my first visa in 2010 so I’m hoping the changes happen very soon so I can apply for my 2nd

  261. What happened to the official update today ? The link shared above is dated the 10 March. Really hoping we get an official update asap this is dragging on too long.

  262. Just checked the House of Lords time table. The report stage doesn’t take place until Tuesday midday so won’t likely find out till then or few days after this.

  263. After watching the House of Lords they didn’t seem happy with the meat trade deal and wanted changed with that but some were moved and some not moved not sure what implications this has. But after checking the gov site the report stage in now complete according to that.

    And from what’s been said in this group and what I’ve looked at 3rd reading is usually straight after this. Usually same day but they didn’t mention it but have seen it say it can take days. So hopefully this is done by the end of the week. Then it’s royal assent.

  264. How long does the consideration of ammendments take before the Royal ascent takes place?

    Hopefully as its so close to the end, it won’t take too long at all.

    Not sure what I’m looking forward to more, finally getting to apply for my visa, going to Australia or handing in my resignation at my dead end job

  265. Dan, I dream about the day I will be handing in my resignation! I think I will cry happy tears when I am finally on that plane 🙂 I cannot wait to come onto this site one day (soon) and see that we can apply for the visa!

  266. I keep checking on thr government website a few times a day just in case things have sped up haha.

    I’ve already got my resignation typed up. All I need to do is hand it in as soon as my visa is approved.

    In fact, as I still live at home with parents all I have to do is
    Apply for visa
    Sell all my belongings
    Book flight and that’s it!

  267. This is very good news! Thanks for the update Bradley.

    April 12th seems to be the date the visa rules in the UK will be changed to accommodate the age increase but June 29th and July 1st will be the dates the changes will come into force in the UK and New Zealand respectively.

    Dan: If you look at other bills (which you should, don’t take my word for it) consideration of amendments normally takes a few days and royal assent could happen any time from the same day to a month later.

    • Charles: April 12th? For UK to change the age? For Aussies to come here or for UK people to go there?

      Hopefully it wont be long now (actually, praying it wont be long now!)

  268. Dan

    Sorry, I didn’t explain it very well.

    April 12th is when the rules that the UK’s visa office has to follow will be changed. The rules changes include increasing the number of Aussies and Canadians that be granted visas and increasing the age to 35 and length of stay for Kiwis.

    However, Kiwis over 30 won’t be able to apply until June 29th and it will be July 1st for Brits. The visa rules get changed quite often (two weeks apart in one instance last year) so changing it for Aussies won’t be an issue.

    With regards to the silence about the visa age change for Australia I’m assuming it’s because the wording of the agreement states they won’t change it until EIF of the FTA. I’m interested to hear other theories though if anyone has one.

    We’re nearly there though!

    • Hi guys, I’m staying positive about the changes. I agree with you Charles, Australia probably won’t announce until the UK ratify the FTA and it’s a good sign NZ announcing the changes for 1st July as I think Australia will see this as competition to secure workers and I predict once the FTA is ratified they will announce the changes. That’s what I’m thinking and hoping anyway haha

  269. Just watched the live stream of House of Lords. They have passed the bill! No mention on how long royal assent will be or when it’s going into force but looks like it will be within the month!

    Also not sure with the removal of farming should
    Hopefully find out soon!

  270. This coming Friday (24th) there’s also this scheduled:

    Trade (Australia and New Zealand) (Parliamentary Approval) Bill: Second Reading

    There’s nothing that makes reference to the trade bill scheduled for next week so this might be the last thing before royal assent.

  271. If it’s all done and EIF by next month, will we still have to wait for a date on when they’ll change the visa age then?

    Information overload at the moment

    • Yeah we need to wait for a date for the visas to change but it could happen anytime from the date the FTA enters into force… Hopefully due to Australia’s work force shortage it will trigger them to make the changes asap mate

  272. I just did some more research and the Trade (Australia and New Zealand) (Parliamentary Approval) Bill: Second Reading that’s taking place on Friday isn’t anything to do with the current Trade Bill so looks like today is what counts.

    Thanks to Nick we know there is only one amendment and it’s a small change in wording so it’s looking very likely consideration of amendments could be done today.

    • We are at the ping pong stage… Both houses need to agree the amendments made and goes to royal assent at that point. So, yeah providing HoC agree to the small amendment from HoL today it should go straight to RC! Fingers crossed!!!

  273. Not trying to get anybody’s hopes up but there are two bills (Genetic Technology and Supply and Appropriation) that are scheduled to receive royal assent tomorrow. Charles Windsor has never had a proper job before so it would make sense to get him to sign three at the same time while they have his attention.

    • Yeah I’d say so haha. We need them to announce when the visas will change as well as the FTA entering into force but hopefully we are just weeks away from getting the news we all want!

  274. The link above says:
    The Australia-UK FTA will enter into force after UK processes are complete and Australia and the UK exchange diplomatic notes identifying a commencement date.

  275. I simply can’t wait that long haha.

    But I tell you, how good is it to see on the government website that all boxes are now ticked!

  276. I know everyone here is excited, as we have been waiting for this for soo long. But on what grounds could a visa be denied?Imagine waiting this long for that to happen

    • Me too!! I’m in Bali until the end of April and want to be heading to Australia after that knowing I can get a working holiday visa by July haha

  277. Where’s the best place to find out when the deal EIF and when they raise the visa age limit?

    I’m guessing it will be this page?

  278. Yeah not sure I’ve just been trying to google Uk aus fta and see recent news. Surely should see something within the month of when it was agreed.

  279. https://www.ft.com/content/b3d55007-f5fe-4095-99f3-686376be7e42

    Theres a bunch of sad activists that are challenging the outcome of the FTA

    “A campaign group has taken the first step towards legal action against the UK government over its free trade deal with Australia, arguing that it flouts Britain’s international climate obligations.

    Global Feedback, a UK and Netherlands-based group, said it would seek a judicial review, claiming ministers failed to carry out proper due diligence on the environmental impact of importing Australian agricultural products, such as beef and dairy”

    Sad sad individuals 😀

    • Don’t think they’ll get far with complaining to be honest

      Been a long time coming this fta I doubt anything will come of it

  280. Can we get an EIF date please?

    Don’t think they understand people have their lives on hold, and have done for months/years!

  281. I’d expect to hear about it soon Bradley. We’re a small group relative to others that will benefit from this so they probably understand but don’t care. It’s in their interest to announce it when they have concrete dates though.

    For anyone concerned about the Financial Times article:
    That group is not trying to prevent the FTA from going through, they are trying to get the UK government to carry out an environmental impact assessment of the FTA and threatening legal action if they don’t. Both countries have a terrible track record regarding environmental protection so this kind of thing is (thankfully) inevitable.

    This is their website: https://feedbackglobal.org/

  282. I think it’s 30 days from when both governments confirm in writing that they’ve enacted the necessary laws unless a different date is agreed upon.

  283. Australia and the UK’s free trade agreement is poised to come into force midyear, with Britain aiming to finalise its legislative paperwork by the end of May, UK Investment Minister Dominic Johnson says.

    He said there were some technical instruments that had to be tabled before Westminster, around issues such as procurement, but these were straightforward and British processes would soon be complete.

    “Towards the end of May is the target date. We’re committed. I harry and chivvy my team to press forward with the technical implementation,” Lord Johnson said.

    https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/uk-free-trade-deal-to-be-settled-within-weeks-20230331-p5cwyo

    • I hope this doesn’t delay the announcement for the visa changes though. I’m flying to Australia later this month on a tourist visa and really hope they confirm the dates before the end of May otherwise I’ll be applying for a NZ visa on 1st July… Anyone else thinking the same?

  284. https://www.sheepcentral.com/shearing-sector-gains-from-a-uk-fta-could-be-months-away/

    Not wanting to panic anyone but this recent article is indicating that the implementation of the FTA might not happen until 1/07/23

    “Advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade indicates the FTA might not come into force until early in the next financial year.

    And both countries have up to two years to implement Working Holiday Maker visa changes that would extend age and work period limits for UK workers here”

  285. It also says:
    A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesperson told Sheep Central the Australian Government intends to exchange Third Person (Diplomatic) Notes with the UK to enable entry into force of the A-UKFTA at the earliest opportunity.

  286. Just trying to gauge what’s going on above – do we feel the changes will be done and visa available on 1st July 2023?

    Just trying to understand what ”implementation of the FTA” actually means.

    I’m 32 now so hoping this happens in the next 4-5 months

  287. I’m reading everything I can at the moment – feel that based on previous timescales July is maybe a little optimistic – August more plausible – but could be either (or neither!). The New Zealand announcement was made on the 10th March and will live by 29th June 2023 (3 months). A specific announcement just on the WHV hasn’t been made yet… It’s reasonable to assume the mechanics of the visa change should be relatively similar for Aus (and you can bet that Aus/NZ Governments knew intimately how both agreements were being agreed owing to how closly aligned their immigration policies are). Other countries are already 35 for Aus – so this isn’t a brand new process, just the change to include UK applicants alongside others.

    Ofcourse, it’s possible that some kind of technicality gets in the way of all of this – both sides have given themselves the small print of “up to two years from the EIF of the FTA” which could well be the case. The quotes included above and the articles available would suggest that there is some real momentum on both sides to get this implemented ASAP – but we won’t know until we know. I’m keeping everything crossed for August though.

  288. I would like to think the age increase would come in to effect in July 2023 to compete with the New Zealand visa change. However, I guess no one really knows and we will just have to wait and see what happens.

    • I wouldn’t read too much into that article, probably just a disgruntled business owner who is waiting on the visa changes like us and is getting frustrated with lack of workers

      I’ve got my money on 01/07/23 for the age changes

  289. I really need the changes to happen by July to be fair, I really hope we get an announcement soon like New Zealand’s announcement.

    • Then the visas can commence within 2 years of the deal coming into force 🙁

      Hopefully they just annonce the actual date of the changes soon

  290. I’m flying to Cairns in Oz on Sunday… Praying we get good news this month! Hostels are soooo expensive in Australia now!

  291. Seems to have gone a bit quiet to be honest. I don’t think we’ll hear anything until after the deal EIF…I think it will come after the NZ changes.

  292. This is concerning radio silence since it was agreed, surely if it was July they would announce it by now ? I’m scared it might not get changed this year.

  293. It is a little concerning all this silence but hopefully Emma is right, all the paperwork needs to be finalised before they’ll say anything….I hope!

  294. The silence the last two years was different though – before it was confirmed as going through UK Parliament it was always going to be months of waiting. We’re into a slight different period now. The NZ change was announced on 10th March and is going live on 29th June. The Aus change has been in progress for a little longer and only brings UK Passports in line with others (Ireland, Italy, Denmark) with the 35 age limit – so technical changes to reflect this should be minimal. The UK Government have a vested interest in getting this in ASAP as it’s their only post-Brexit achievement. The Aus Government have a vested interest in getting this in ASAP as there are loads of vacancies that need filling and I’m sure they’ll want to contend with the NZ change. I expect we won’t hear much the next two weeks but an announcement after that would be reasonable. My money is on August.

  295. I’ve emailed a couple of dozen people in the UK Government, FCDO, Home Office, and Aus Department for trade etc. not had any useful responses just yet. I’d be cautiously optimistic we might hear something this week or next about confirming a planned date. Could be worth emailing your MP and asking them to chase it too.

  296. I’m thinking of going travelling next year and wanting to have a working ho in Aus but is it worth waiting or just getting a tourist visa?! What if you got sponsorship via a job opportunity – would that change the circumstance?!

  297. Haha you guys are funny…everything crossed hope it works out for us!

    Are you both wanting to work or having a working holiday out there now?

  298. Raksha, I’m wanting to work out there and eventually get permanent residency! That’s the plan anyway.

    SHame I can’t go now as my friend who’s currently out there manages a business and struggling to fill a position he said I could have if only I could go now!

    Hoping there will be some news shortly which will announce the date for the changes. If not, I’m debating going to NZ instead after July.

    Anyone else thinking the same thing (NZ instead?)?

    • Dan this sounds great! I’m looking to find some work out there whilst on my travels within the architectural field fingers crossed!

      From what Jonny has said it does sound hopeful which is great! Just wondering when to start applying for jobs to get a good chance tbh!

      NZ sounds like a fab idea to go for a polite visit haha it’s in my list for sure!!

  299. Loads will have happened. Just nothing that we’ve heard about
    Don’t sweat it. Announcement in the next month is most likely. The odds that the U.K. government were ever going to achieve the minimum notice period of 30 days were non-existent. I don’t think the Kings coronation will have any significance in government policy making but anytime up to/around then in May is possible.

  300. Hi guys, so I’m in Australia now on a tourist visa. If the changes do happen on 1st July. Does anyone know if I can apply from inside the country or do I need to leave and apply?

  301. Hi guys, I just saw a post on Facebook and someone contacted the head of foreign policy and they told them the deal will come onto force at the end of May and that they hope for the visa changes to happen in July because NZ have already confirmed it. Hopefully this is true!

  302. I messaged the head of forgein policy at the British chambers and they said the FTA is coming into place end of May so hopefully FTA start of July

    hello ☺️ did they say they hoped the visa changes to be July?

    they said NZ will be July and as it is the australia and NZ free trade agreement they are hoping AU will also be July

  303. By Visa changes, do you think they mean the age change? Or do you reckon the removal of farm work will come alongside that or at a much later date?

  304. Does this mean age range or will this be the 3 years without farming as well. I’ve always been apprehensive with the farming one because I’d of thought they’d want to try hold out longer for this change ?

    • It will happen at the same time mate. To be fair I’m here now and loads of backpackers are struggling to find farm work so by releasing the UK citizens from doing these jobs will free them up for other backpackers from other countries I guess.

    • Thanks for the update Jonny!

      With the FTA as good as done and NZ announcing the age change for July I haven’t been doing much reading about all of this recently.

      How are you finding life in Aus?

  305. Yeah there isn’t much else to read about at the moment to be fair. I think we will find out more in the coming week though.

    It’s a stunning as I remember it! I have been going down the east coast on the greyhound coach and heading to Sydney this afternoon. I’m in Brisbane and it’s really sunny and warm! Can’t complain!

  306. I’m not subscribed to The Australian Financial Times but this is the first bit I could see.

    Australia and the UK’s free trade agreement is poised to come into force midyear, with Britain aiming to finalise its legislative paperwork by the end of May, UK Investment Minister Dominic Johnson says.

    Hopefully comes in sooner I’m starting to plan my south east Asia trip then Sydney for Christmas!

    .

  307. Anthony Albanese has just arrived in London and said on his Instagram that ahead of the kings coronation him and Rishi will be discussing the FTA so hopefully one of the subjects discussed is the visa changes and we hear something soon!!

  308. I’ve just had a reply from the UK Department for Business and trade;

    We are working hard to bring the FTA into force at the earliest opportunity so businesses and consumers can reap the benefits. We expect to be able to bring the agreement into force in Spring 2023. The Government has brought forward the necessary primary legislation in the form of the Trade (Australia and New Zealand) Act 2023, which has now completed its passage through Parliament and has received Royal Assent.
    The commitments regarding Working Holiday Visas were taken in a separate side letter which specifies that the changes will need to be implemented within two years of entry into force of the Free Trade Agreement. UK and Australian officials are working together to bring these changes into effect as soon as operationally possible.

    No new information but at least the FTA is still looking like the next few months. I thought we’re already out of spring with it being May – but maybe not!

    They’ve caveated the WHV timeline difference again – although my previous response form the Aus government has said all the Aus technicalities have already been completed. Clearly the UK can make a change quickly when they want to (NZ WHV) … guess we’re still none the wiser really!

    • That’s good that all the Australia technical processes are completed already for the visas as it’s the removal of farm work we were concerned about. UK doesn’t have to do much as they will just increase the age. Fingers crossed it’s being discussed now as both PM are in London together now

  309. Is it possible to move from an Irish passport Visa into a UK one?

    My gf ( 28 y.o) is from Northern Ireland, and has dual nationality – so a UK passport and an Irish one.

    Unfortunately she has lost her UK passport – and her new one will take a minimum of 10 weeks to arrive. But we are due to arrive in OZ in 3 weeks!!

    She wants to apply now via Irish passport, then transfer onto a UK visa when the new passport arrives. This will allow her to take advantage of the new UK/AU visa rules (when they finally come into action, ofc).

    If not, she is considering applying on an emergency UK passport? Anyone got any experience with this?

    Any advice would be great, thanks.

  310. Came here to post this too! NZ FTA at the same time so hopefully the Visa rules align with June as well! Buzzing

  311. After what seems so long with silence since it passed in parliament, finally starting to hear some good news!

    I’m trying to think ahead (maybe tok far ahead!), but how difficult do you think it would be to get permanent residency in Australia?

    I’m an unskilled worker with only supermarket work since I left school at 16, I’m now 31. There is no future for me here, can’t get a mortgage, can’t afford to live on my own etc.

    Just wondered how realistic I need to be here haha?

  312. I was gonna come over as unskilled but I’ve recently in last year and half picked up a role as electrical technician started at 29. Now worked my way up really well and spoke to people on linked in they’re crying out for people in that sector. Don’t need any qualifications or anything. Failing that I know a friend who was doing furniture removal and he got offered a visa. And know a few people falling into jobs they wouldn’t imagine then getting sponsored!

  313. Lee- Oh really!? So it is truly possible then to get sponsored relatively easily?

    I know I shouldn’t be thinking about things like this yet as I still have to wait for them to change the visa age but it’s all I can think about haha

  314. I subscribed the the Australian newspaper just so I could read this article.

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pronounced “it is game on,” as the United Kingdom-Australia free trade deal is fast tracked to come into force at the end of this month, resulting in three year working visas between the two countries, as well as more jobs and exports.
    Mr Albanese said the changes to the labour market as part of the free trade agreement would mean UK citizens up the age of 35 can obtain three year temporary visas to Australia and vice versa.

    Previously the one year working holiday visa for UK citizens was for an initial 12 months and only for people up to the age of 30.

    “If you are a UK citizen or a local Londoner as part of the FTA we will change some of the labour market, so that instead of being 30 years of age to get that temporary visa, it will increase it up to 35 in both countries, and extend it to three years so that people can come here and get that real experience over a longer period of time,’’ Mr Albanese said as he visited an Australian-themed store Bondi Green in Paddington on Thursday. Mr Albanese said the final processes of the FTA were being passed through the British parliament on Thursday so that on Friday when he meets with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the work will be completed before the coronation.

    “You always need a deadline,’’ Mr Albanese said.

    “And this afternoon, literally today, some of the processes in the UK parliament are being completed so that tomorrow when I meet with Prime Minister Sunak at Number 10 Downing Street, we will be able to complete the FTA timetable so that this month it will come into force on the 31st of May.

    Doesn’t say it will be within 2 years so maybe we are getting the visa changes soon??

  315. Looks like we are the winners now!!!

    https://anzuk.blog/visa-update-aus-uk-free-trade-agreement/

    The long-awaited changes to the UK and Australian working holiday visas have been confirmed by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese & we finally have good news to share!

    We are pleased to announce that Anthony Albanese has confirmed that the agreement will be in place by the 31st of May, with the age eligibility changing up to the age of 35 instead of under 31 and extending the length of the visa from the current 2 years, up to 3 years.

    This means that more Australians will be eligible to access the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, and be provided with a longer period of time to gain valuable work and life experience as well as being able to explore the UK and Europe for longer – a win-win for all!

    We anticipate that for those who are currently on a Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, you will be able to apply for an extra year, but this is yet to be confirmed.

    These changes will also benefit UK travellers coming to Australia with the same increase in age limit and being able to work throughout their stay of up to 3 years – this is still to be confirmed by the Australian and UK Governments.

    There is yet to be a formal release, but the Australian Prime Minister has made this announcement and we will be updating this blog as more information comes through.

  316. My partner has done a first year working Holliday visa on an Irish passport in 2018 and did not complete the farm work . They now have also a British passport , will they be able to apply for a second year working holiday visa from Ireland or would it be need to be applied on the British passport ?

  317. I am seeing a few outlets quoting the “within two years” phrase!

    God forbid this isn’t the case. We’ve waited long enough!!!

  318. So I’m reading as many news articles as I can. I think the main take away from the current situation is that only the FTA is confirmed for 31st May but still nothing specific has been about the WHV. Although there are hundreds of news outlets reporting on it, I think they are all referencing the official UK/Aus Government statements which include the 2 year caveat. So the constant repetition of this fact isn’t bad OR good – it’s all come from the same source.

    Apparently Albanese and Sunak have two meetings today to discuss timescales – coupled with the Aussie Federal budget on Tuesday next week. I’d imagine we’ll still have to wait until next week until anything is confirmed. Fingers crossed though – I think the NZ change should keep us positive though 🙂

  319. Correct me if I’m wrong but surely it wouldn’t benefit the age changes to commence within 2 years?

    People will just think, OK, I’ll go to NZ instead.
    I think because an official date hasn’t been set yet, they are just quoting the 2 year thing.

    I reckon it will happen this year… Well, I’m praying more like!

  320. Yeah I hope we hear more over the next week and get a confirmation date. I really don’t see the benefit of them waiting 2 years without sound bias!

  321. I think if it was imminent guys we’d have got a date by now, much like we have for the NZ situation.

    The constant “within 2 years” is excruciating and I can only think that this has been factored in with an underlying cause.

    These bloody politicians have had our lives on hold for 2 years now and we still don’t have a date.

    We can only sit and wait and hope for some positive news.

  322. I’m not so convinced by that Bradley – politics always moves slowly and the labour shortage in NZ is slightly more acute than in Aus which may have been a driver. The whole FTA has been sat on for two years and only moved quickly in the past two months. It could be that there’s an absolute shocker waiting for us all but I don’t think the events so far points to this. I don’t know the exact timescales between when the Danish/Italian/Irish increase to 35 was announced/implemented but that would be a good comparison to make.

  323. There’s no mention of the date for visas. Just implementation of the FTA.

    We need actually government postings now, not articles. We’ve seen articles before claim dates which haven’t through. I.e when the deal was first signed.

  324. I got confirmation via email from NZ PM’s office that the NZ WHV will still only be a once in a lifetime visa 🙁 so now Aus is my only option

  325. I have dual passports – Can I apply for a 2nd year WHV on a British passport inser the new deal if my first WHV was on an Irish passport?

  326. You can only apply for it once. Whereas Australia are going to be allowing people that have been before to apply for their 2nd or 3rd years.

  327. Seen article that Australian prime minister is in trouble for falsely telling U.K. and Aussies that the 2 no farming visas will come in this month which is actually incorrect.

    • It is all so confusing! Have anyone contacted either government for clarity on the WHV changes ? As the Aussie PM has twice now made it appear that changes will be made collectively, however, as already stated by many posters there is still the ‘within 2 years’ language circulating around media :S! Think my head is about to fall off!

      Jonny, I also just spent 3 months in Melbourne on a tourist visa/trip to Asia, waiting around. I’m now back in Leicester working to regenerate funds to hopefully return to Aus to work at end of British summer…hope it works out for us!

      • I had a response today and they said within 2 years of 31st May then I have just seen this video of the PM confirming the changes will happen… I need to see it on the gov website before I believe anything.

        I’m also concerned there is no mention of the removal of farm work as it was 13 years ago since I did my farm work and I don’t have payslips etc anymore as I didn’t think I’d ever be able to come back!

        You have done the same as me! I was travelling through Asia and Bali then I arrived here at the beginning of April and praying I don’t have to fly home and come back later in the year (if the changes happen before Christmas) I’m 35 now so I only have until next March before I’m going to be too old…again haha!

        What month do you think you will come back out?

        • Yeah I watched that video too and it could be seen as confirming the changes will be made when the trade deal comes into force, but could also just be him listing the benefits going forward without specifics :/

          Yeah I didn’t want to have to pay for all of the flights either, but it’s at least opened up a summer in the UK…attending a few festivals will comfort me XD!

          I’m hoping to fly back September 1st. Fingers crossed! Looking likely we wont hear anything until May 31st now though, unless they recognise people are waiting around for this information and release something sooner.

          Heres to hope..!

  328. Hi Dan – yes you can do a NZ WHV then an Australian one.
    But as I did one month of my NZ WHV in March 2020 they will not let me reapply for a second year in NZ 🙁

  329. Hi Emma, do you know if there is any offical postings about this? Already spent a year in NZ, but this was my back up option if Oz didn’t get it done in time.

    I can’t seem to find much, it’s still all the old information. Without the updated rules which will come into effect 31st June.

  330. I keep checking daily for any update on the visa changes but like you said, it’s all old information.

    I do think they will wait for the deal to officially enter into force and then set a date for the visas. I don’t think it will be 2 years down the line but maybe I’m just trying to convince myself otherwise haha

  331. Hi Bradley, I emailed the NZ PM and got a reply from his office confirming that for NZ you will not be able to reapply. The response:

    “The working holiday visa scheme only allows for a person to be granted one WHV. We are not currently considering granting further WHVs to those who were unable to use the full duration of their initial visa”

  332. hi all

    Trying to make sense of what is going on here.. i turn 33 in June so i have time but i’m desperate to get over to Aus asap.

    Do we think that it could take another 2 years for the age to be put up?

    Thanks!

  333. By what I’m seeing id assume they will lift the age to 35 but it seems the farming will still be in place up to 2 years. But it’s all hearsay until it’s actually confirmed.

  334. James – people have said its possible on the 31st May, may be the date we will hear a date set for the visa age increase.

    Have also heard others saying July is the time when changes happen etc but again, we’re all just guessing here.

    Until there’s an official date announced and is on the government websites etc, we just gotta wait. This waiting game sucks

  335. Thanks Dan

    Yep it does suck. I’ve been checking up on this thread now for over 6 months. I have some time on my hands but it really sucks here in the UK right now and this weather is really giving me itchy feet!

  336. Same here James….I think this is the site I’ve visited the most in the past 6 months! Sometimes I’m on here checking for comments 3 or 4 times a day ahaha.

    I am holding out hope that others on this site are correct and we will hear someting at the end of the month.

    I’m comparing this waiting to when I was younger waiting for Christmas day! I just can’t wait for it!

  337. Guys, it’s at the stage now where both governments need to simply decide what date to implement the visa changes… I think we all need to contact and email our local MP’s and push for an update on when they plan to make the decision… I have emailed mine simply requesting to find out when they will be having the discussion and making a decision. Let’s all do it and get others to do the same. Just an idea haha

  338. You’d like to think with it been said that it’s going into force end of my may.. that we should find out by June..

    • Yeah it’s very annoying when they are like “rules set to change soon” then later in the article are like “government has 24 months to implement the changes”… That’s not soon and it’s not news as we have known this for 2 years already..FFS haha

  339. Going to email my local MP to see if he has any info on the visa increase, won’t hurt to ask I guess.

    Does anyone know what I could put to make my email look somewhat proffessional? I’m not very good at writing to people…how and what could I write? Thanks

      • Poke this into ChatGPT and go from there: Please write a letter to my MP in the UK Parliament, asking for them to confirm the start date of the UK Australia working holiday visa age change. Please make it clear that I already understand the official comment on the 2 year implementation but want them to be more specific and not just quote old information.

  340. My Local MP has been great – he even issued a follow up question because the first one contained the stock response. There have been 4 questions to the Home Secretary in the last few weeks – one still to be answered – but none contain any helpful information…

    https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-questions?Answered=Any&AnsweredFrom=&AnsweredTo=&DateFrom=01%2F03%2F2023&DateTo=01%2F12%2F2023&Expanded=False&House=Bicameral&SearchTerm=Australia&Page=2

    Don’t sweat how you’re writing the email too much Dan, they’re humans after all – as long as it’s polite and makes sense! Don’t worry about it being word perfect.

    I’m going to write back to my MP again and just reinforce that there’s been no new information from any of the responses and ask if there’s anything we can do to push for a date for an announcement.

  341. Wow we made it to 1000+ comments and still no set date for the age changes! FFS!

    3 years of ineptitude by both governments

  342. I wonder what their source is. And they only talk about Australians going to the Uk, not vice versa.

    All we can do is wait until next week and see what the news on the 31st brings us.

  343. In the absence of an official announcement – all of these news articles are just rehashing the stuff we already know (just phrasing it differently).

    Wouldn’t sweat it until there’s a proper statement.

  344. If it will be 2025,the majority of us can kiss goodbye to ever going over.

    But yeah, I am remaining optimistic for next week for some sort of official statement that says otherwise.

    If nothing is heard by the 31st, what other significant date would we be most likely to hear something do you think? Or if nothing is said by end of the month, will we be possibly looking at 2025?

  345. Don’t think so mate. We all know the 2 year caveat that’s been quoted loads.

    It could be two years – but I doubt it will be. As mentioned before – other changes have taken 4 months to be implemented.

    Think this will be the question to keep an eye on over the next few days – although suspect this will come back with the same sh*t we’ve been quoted a million times before – it does at least ask a slightly different question about what conversations have been held!

    https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-questions/detail/2023-05-15/185173

  346. Only thing I’m thinking with that article is that’s included with the no farming and age range surely they will at least do the age range instantly then do the farm work removal at another date. If so doesn’t make sense!

  347. Someone on my road is a researcher for House of Lords so I’ve sent him a nice message asking if he will know the info on this fta and could tell me about anything he knows or could find out.

  348. If no new news comes out by next Wednesday, safe to say the age changes are cooked.

    Very strange that the NZ changes were done swiftly and the Australian ones haven’t changed.

  349. I was thinking the same. If no news by next week I reckon it will take almost 2 years for it to come in.

    I’m probably wrong but becoming less and less optimistic by the day

    • Agreed.

      Theres something going on in the background they’re not telling us which is why the changes haven’t happened.

      • Has to be! Surely it’s the only explanation. If next week comes and they’ve not announced a date, I’m going to be fuming

  350. That’s the thing.

    Hanging on, waiting. Not being able to make plans, commit to events and/or peoples schedules. So infuriating.

    I have to imagine we won’t hear anything, and it won’t be in place for 1st July. Waited long enough. Greater forces at play, for which us mere mortals not know of.

    • I just had a reply from UK in Australia on twitter and they quoted this…

      We are working to make the final arrangements for bringing this into force. Announcement soon…!

  351. It was on twitter, they posted about the FTA coming in next week and I asked if they would be announcing the visa changes and that was their reply. It’s better than no news I guess haha

  352. Yeah I feel the same, I’m so glad I’m not the only person going through this horrible waiting game and can discuss things with you all.

    I’m literally praying for news this week or I’m flying home for summer and hopefully can come back at the end of the year with the visa haha

  353. ‘This is the first ‘new’ UK trade deal signed since Brexit; the UK’s other trade agreements have largely rolled-over previous EU deals. The agreement is due to come into effect at midnight on 31 May 2023.’

    Everything crossedddd

  354. Fingers crossed for tomorrow or early Thursday morning (our time).

    The replies Jonny’s had would make it sound like the announcement is close – it would make sense that it’s all tied together… stressful 48 hours coming up even longer if they still don’t give us an answer!

    • I can… Here it says…

      Australia’s free trade agreement with the UK has officially come into force, in what Trade Minister Don Farrell has called a “boon for young people”.

      The deal will reduce tariffs on Australian products – including beef and wine – and significantly boost the mobility of younger workers through an expansion of working holiday visas.

      Australians could previously apply to work in the UK only for two years and needed to be under the age of 30, but that eligibility has now risen to 35 years old, while the length of the maximum stay has increased to three years.

      “Australians will benefit from new skilled visa pathways to the UK, providing more direct channels for aspiring young Australians to live and work in London, which has the world’s highest concentration of financial and professional services firms, before returning home to apply these skills in Australia,” Mr Farrell wrote for The Australian online. “Our free trade agreement with the United Kingdom, which enters into force today, is so vital. It will help grow our domestic industries and homegrown manufacturing capabilities, delivering benefits to Australian businesses, and creating new ell-paying jobs. This new trade agreement will open new export opportunities, promote greater investment into Australia and help diversify our trade relationship.”

  355. Good spot mate! Will wait for it to be confirmed via official sources too – but that’s definitely better than the worst-case scenario! Does that sort you out?

  356. Stupid question incoming….For UK citizens, we will be able to apply for a visa for Aus in January 2024? Or can we apply before hand? Information overload in the past hour on this forum hahaha

    • Happy to be corrected – but I think you can apply/be approved beforehand – but not to enter before the 31st of Jan. All of my mates on WHV’s have been approved in less than 24 hours up to now – but I guess they’ll have a fair backlog from these changes so it may go to a few weeks?

      • Interesting comment there, Alex! I hope this is true, because I will apply tonight hahaha.

        Has visa processing become that quick? I know when my mate applied during beginning of corona, his took about 8 months! But I guess a lot of office workers were off, borders were closed and everything just took so long.

        If anyone can comment on this, please do….I got butterflies HAHAHA

    • If we can apply before so like tomorrow Dan hahaha that would be fab with the intention of going next year – that’s what I wanna do

      Need to see what they officially say! Guess I can start looking for jobs this side of the year then which is fab!

      Cant believe the anticipation i really thought it would be earlier!

  357. Reporting it on the Sydney Morning Herald now too:

    Australia’s trade deal with UK comes into force
    By Caroline Schelle

    Australia’s free trade deal with the United Kingdom will come into force today, with more than 99 per cent of Australian products to enter the country duty-free.

    Australian producers of wine, beef, sheep meat, grains, rice, sugar, and dairy products will benefit from duty-free quotas or tariff elimination.

    Assistant Trade Minister Tim Ayres told ABC Breakfast News this morning said the deal would provide more opportunity for exporters, firms and workers.

    “They are one of our oldest friends of course, the United Kingdom, but this is a new chapter in the economic relationship,” Ayres said this morning.

    He said the deal would mean $4 billion worth of goods from the UK would be tariff-free, and would lead to a $200 million a year advantage for Australian consumers.

    For exporters to the UK, up to 99 per cent would be tariff-free and there was significant progress on agricultural goods including wine, and red meat.

    “Some … uplift in beef and lamb quotas, for example, is spread over a few years,” Ayres said.

    British products including cars, whisky, confectionery, biscuits and cosmetics coming into Australia are expected to be cheaper.

    And from January 31, more Australians will be able to apply for working holidays in the UK and stay for longer.

  358. Unlucky – Losing Hope.

    This has taken way too long. Our lives have been in limbo for years now.

    Hoping for those on the right side of 35 it’s all worked out okay!

    Fingers crossed we get official statement today.

    • It says July 1st the age limit for uk applicants going to aus will go from 30 to 35. But from july 1 next year, uk applicants will be able to stay up to 3 years….i cant make sense of that at all, but it is late and im tired haha

    • 1st July 2024 for the removal of farm work… I’m screwed a bit as I did my farm work in 2010 but payslips back then we’re handing to you with your wages in a envelope… I have no idea where I put them as I didn’t think I’d ever need them again until now. Anyone have any idea?

      • Once you’ve had a proper look, if you still don’t have them – I’d maybe contact the farm where you worked as they may keep records (even if they paid you cash). They’ll likely get audited too so I’d assume they’ll be a paper trail somewhere. They may not be helpful – but I guess it’s worth a shot. Failing that I’d speak to a human in immigration and see what they can offer you, might be worth getting an immigration lawyer?

  359. Well it looks like for UK passport holders they can apply for the new YMS visas from 1st of July
    Australian passport holders will need to wait untill January 31st 2024!
    Even though I will still only he 34 by then I think I will go to canada for the time being as I’m already in the UK and cant be bothered waiting around so long
    At least in Canada I can also see America and if anything , it makes the decision easier for me by taking an option away for now
    There’s also the possibility of Denmark or france or ireland or italy but I feel Canada will be cool

    Heres the link

    https://www.nationaltribune.com.au/changes-to-australia-s-working-holiday-maker-program-and-the-uk-s-youth-mobility-scheme/

  360. Why is it the UK always gets the raw end of the deal?!? I’m in the same position as Losing Hope and turn 36 in August.
    I did my first 1 year whv back in 2018-2019 and was just in the age limit (30), so doing farm work didn’t make sense at the time as I wouldn’t of been able to get a 2nd year whv anyway due to my age.
    Now it seems brits still have to wait until 1st July 2024 for the specified farm work requirements to be removed (this is bullsh*t!), yet people from Oz don’t have to meet any requirements coming to the UK?
    This isn’t like for like and I’m just sick of this UK government bending over for a half-assed deal that frankly no-one gives a sh*t about.
    Such wasted hope for many over the last few years!

  361. With the third year/6 month option only available from July 2019, does anyone know if they’d accept payslips prior to that date?I’ve got 3 months before and 3 after it stitched me out of my third year back then

    • Hi Dunk, work needs to be performed after 1st July 2019 – so only your 3 months worked after this date will be counted. (Please note that the FTA is now into force so UK passport holders will be able to apply for another year even if they did not do the work (from July 2024)). Cheers

      • Thanks for the speedy reply folks, really appreciate it. had a feeling it might be a long reach for it to be back dated but worth an ask to save applying for a 189. 2024 isn’t all too far away and for those on this group who tick over the age bracket, I hope you all make it over there whether it be on 189 visas, student or sponsorship. Thanks for all the updates too, it’s kept me focused and motivated all winter

  362. So, if you apply to go in July 2023, will you still have to do farm work to get the second and third visa when the rules change in 2024?

  363. I will be turning 36 in February 2024. Under the new guidelines I will be eligible to apply on the the 1st of July. My question is, can I apply for all three visas in one go even though I will be over 35 for the last 2 years?

  364. Hi all

    Thanks for all your posts – really helpful

    Can i get this straight, the age changes to 35 as of 31 July 2023? The farm work is by the by for me (happy to do it) but just trying to make sense if I will be able to apply and go from 1 July 2023. (I turn 33 in June this year)

  365. Hi James, as far as I can tell, if you haven’t had a WHV before, you can apply on 1st July 2023.
    From what I can see on the “welcome to travel” website, we will not have to do the farm work, as that will be removed by the time we apply for a second visa in July 2024.

  366. Why don’t you guys just go when it changes in a months time, why do you have to wait til July 2024? That’s an awfully long wait

  367. I will be applying in July 2023. But for people that have already been to Aus and didn’t complete any farm work, they will have to wait until July 2024.

  368. Hi so am 34 never been to ozz dose that mean I can apply for visa 1st of July and won’t have to do any farm work as il be flying out December this year many thanks peeps

  369. Absolutely buzzing! I’ve already been in contact with my friend whose already over there to let him know I will be applying 1st July. He’s already got things planned for us to do hahaha

    I’m really happy others get to apply as well but also feel for those who will miss out due to age.

  370. If I applied and had a visa accepted just after covid when i was 30, but never actually used the visa – i.e. i never actually went out to Australia at all in the end… i can still apply for the visa right? I think you guys said that would be fine, but just wanted to double check again! Thanks!

  371. I can’t believe it’s actually happening after all this time! I hope the website doesn’t crash on 1st July haha

  372. Finally good news, I will be going Vietnam,Thailand,Tokyo,Sydney,Melbourne for November onwards, finally come together!

    Hope everyone got what they needed. And thanks to everyone for commenting and helping each other with the information needed!

  373. I’m in a weird situation. First of all thanks to everyone who’s been posting all these months and keeping us all updated.

    I’m from Scotland and my fiancé is Australian. He turns 36 in September. We need to move back to the UK as my mum isn’t well but because of the nature of our jobs (we’re ski instructors and have been travelling between NZ and Japan for years) we aren’t eligible for a partner visa.

    Am I right in reading that the rules change for Brits going to Australia in July 2023 but Australians going to the UK it’s January 2024?

    Thanks again for the help!

  374. Hiya

    I had a WHV granted in 2 years ago but i never arrived in Australia…
    I am now 32 and want to apply again in July of this year, I just want to make sure this is possible?
    My original visa was never activated but it was granted, i just never used it.
    If you could confirm that would be great!

  375. Best of luck to everyone! I am unable to find my farm work proof from 2010 and turn 36 in March so I’m one of the unlucky people to miss out on the fantastic opportunity.

    Back in the UK now so time to get back to reality for me haha

  376. Hi,

    I’m 35 now as of Feb 2nd.

    From July 1st I can apply for a working holiday visa but that only allows me one year, is that right? I can’t then apply to extend as i’ll be 36?

    Can you advise?

    Thanks

  377. Am sorting my visa 1st of July and a friend out there could have me a sponcer how dose it go from there planning and hoping to apply for passport eventually??

    • This is what I am hoping for as well, Tony.

      I’ve read many things saying it’s difficult if you’re unskilled and even read that apparently it’s not as hard as it seem. I take it you mean permanent residency?

  378. Hi

    I am currently 35 from the UK and turn 36 in may 2024

    Am i elegible for 3 years still when the new rules kick in
    or only 1 as will turn 36 in may 2024?

  379. I am absolutley gutted that the visa changes are implemented next year for Aussies. But Nzers are earlier! I might have to look at other avenues but losing hope:(

  380. Just so I have this right… From July 1st, I can apply for a WHV for Australia (UK)

    and if I travel out January 2024, will have to do farm work until they remove it in July 2024?

  381. Hi,

    So I’m 34 and from the UK. I turn 35 next April. If I land in Australia in January 2024 on a working holiday visa am I right in thinking I can stay there for 2 years?

    January 2024 I will be aged 34 years and 9 months (first year of wh visa)

    January 2025 I will be aged 35 years and 9 months old (second year of wh visa)

    Will I be able to get a 2nd year wh visa as I’ll be under 36?

  382. Please help, if I’m applying for my first Aus whv do I need to apply when I’m in the UK as I’m planning on going to NZ first for a whv then Aus. Can I apply for my Aus whv while I’m in New Zealand ?

  383. Have they removed the ‘6 months max working per employer’ limitation??

    I thought the new arrangements meant we could work for the same employer for the full duration of our WHV?

  384. Hi i just turn 31 yo last month and early this year i got my 2nd year visa. I am indonesia, is there any chance i can get 3rd whv 462 ?
    Currently i work in agriculture job

  385. Hi Tom, I don’t think so, I think that was only removed during COVID.

    I have booked my flight to New Zealand and will be going to Aus in October!

  386. Already filled out what I can on my visa application so on the 1st of July I can finish it off and submit it. Getting prepared early hahaha

  387. Hi All

    Wondering if you would be able to help …

    I’m turning 35 this month. I completed my 1st WHV in 2011. I never did any farm work. Am I able to apply for a 2nd WHV?
    I’m confused with the ages (some state 30-35 years old inclusive) and requirements.
    Any help appreciated.
    Thanks

  388. There is a strong chance of me getting a sponsorship before I go dose this mean I can apply for citizenship after couple years how dose it work please thanks

    • Had a quick look on Google, Tony and from what I can see they will refuse if you have a ‘substantial’ criminal record or served prison time. I’m no law expert but I’d say you’re safe with your ban and points.

  389. How much money are you all taking with you to Australia? Im hoping to go in January and by that time I should have £6.5k. Just curious that’s all

    • I have just applied for my 2nd visa. I was able to find a lot of information about my farm work but not all the payslips. However, I did my 1st visa in 2010 and the requirements for payslips didn’t come in until 2015 so I wrote a covering letter along with my documents so fingers crossed they are happy with the documents I have supplied.

  390. Apparently theres maintenance works on 30th June – 1st July on the immigration website haha. I just went to register for an account! Might start filling in my application form like you said Dan just to get the ball rolling. Hope its easy!

  391. Hey I’m looking to apply for the visa but the website hasn’t changed it’s age (UK requirements) it still says 30. Is it worth hanging on or should I apply?

    Thanks

  392. Applied today and within seconds I was granted the visa! How bloody quick was that!

    Immi website a bit temperamental at the min I found, probably due to the high volumes of traffic

  393. Were these first or second WHV Dan and Emma?

    I applied for my second year and still no approval. Not declined, but no approval either.

    I know I’m just being impatient (and maybe a little paranoid)

  394. Emma – Crazy isn’t it! My mate (who left for Aus last year) said it wont feel quite real until you get that email to say it’s been approved

    Tom – Mine was a 1st WHV.

    I was expecting to wait ages, had to read the document twice to make sure I saw right.

    When did you apply for your 2nd WHV?

  395. Yesterday! Took hours to complete, lots of info needed on farm work, including uploading of pay slips etc.

    And site was was glitchy, a few refreshes needed.

    I wonder if they work Sundays? And maybe I’ll be at update today. I’m already out here on a tourist visa!

    Congrats guys! Hope you enjoy OZ

    • I’m the same as you Tom – I have applied for my 2nd visa yesterday but haven’t had any response yet.

      I’m back in the UK now but if my visa grants I’m coming back to Australia later in the year

        • I had the details of the farms and tax returns from when I claimed by tax back… Didn’t have payslips and didn’t need them as I worked there before 2015 (that’s when they required you to send payslips) I worked on farms on my first WHV

  396. All so lucky being able to apply now!!
    ive gotta wait till July 2024 to apply for my 2nd
    Have a great time all ☀️

  397. I wonder if they are focusing on 1st WHV’s first as they anticipated loads of applications yesterday?

    Hope you don’t have to wait too much longer

  398. Hey folks congratulations to all of you that have had your visas approved!
    Just wondering if anyone has any info regarding application for whvs whilst an EOI for PR is underway? Due to get my trades assessment approval back this week and will be eligible for my 3rd year next July but apprehensive about the wait times and concerned that it may snooker me if I get the 189 underway beforehand, cheers!

  399. Hi guys just wondering if yas could help me out I have applied for my visa it says received will that say excepted once all done or will I receive a email many thanks guys good luck

  400. Hi Tom – 1st WHV for me too, so way less paperwork etc for them to get through to approve mines. They might actually have to get a human to look at yours whereas I’m sure mines was just ran through computer software as it was approved so quickly.

    Hi Tony – you will get another email through to say it has been granted.

  401. Just applied for mine and it was granted straight away! Had to double check I wasn’t missing anything hahaha

    So surreal I’m well excited! Is anyone looking to find work in the architectural/ construction field?!

  402. Hi, follow up to my original question. Kind of taking this scenario to the extreme.

    Could I apply for the WH visa and have it approved when I’m 35 years and 364 days old, and then be able to enter Australia a few months later when I’m 36 years old to do a 1 year working holiday?

    I guess a simpler way to ask is do you have 1 year from your visa being approved to enter australia even if you’re 36 years old? Or do you age out automatically when you turn 36 regardless of WH visa being approved.

    I ask because I’m either going to go this December, or do a masters degree and then go for a year.

  403. Hi I have applied for whv I declared a drink driving conviction which is 7 years old and 3 penalty points they asked for police certificate I have sent back which is clean as a whistle dose anyone no how long it will take to process and will I be ok for visa ??

  404. Anyone no how to get in touch for update on whv I applied on 2nd had to apply police certificate heard nothing as yet or you think it’s a back log thanks peeps

  405. Anyone applied for whv with police certificate submitted mine on the 2nd then uploaded certificate on the 9th July still waiting for response what yas think ??

  406. Hello

    I applied for the visa 1st year on immi website, completely upload and payment and i have an email with a ‘granted’ letter and it just says ‘granted’ on my immi account.

    I assume this means i now have the visa? Seemed odd because i literally applied and it took no time at all, literally happened instantly as soon as i paid!

    Cheers

    • Hi James. Haven’t been on here in a while. Yes, it does mean you have your visa. Mine took 10 seconds! I had to check as well as I didn’t think it would be approved so quick – a facebook group I’m on saying it was likely auto-approved by the system which I guess means it wasn’t passed on to a human for further inspection.

  407. I applied for whv on 2nd July they asked for police certificate after I declared a drink driving conviction which is 7 years old and 3 penalty points which are 2 years old I submitted certificate on 9th July which is clean haven’t heard anything since any info peeps please thanks

    • I’ve been checking this site every few days to see if your visa had been granted Tony, glad it finally has!

      I’m also looking into PR without any skilled related things – been doing some research but getting mixed answers, with some saying it’s easier than people think while others say it’s almost impossible without a skill on the list or a shed tonne of money.

  408. Hi! Thanks for that article!

    I’m 31 and Spanish and Brazilian citizenship.

    Do I still have any possibility of working visa?

    Couldnt find at Aussie government website.

    • Hi Isabela, You must be aged 18 to 30 years old (inclusive) when you apply.
      If you apply for the visa while you are 30, but turn 31 before the government have made a decision, they can still grant you the visa if you meet all other requirements.

  409. Hi, i’m italian, i have now 35 years old, can i apply for the work holiday 417 now and travel to Australia with 36 years old?

  410. Hi, i am a uk citizen and currently 33 years old. I want to apply for the work holiday visa next year, i will be 34 then. When the first visa is issued i will have 12 months in oz and if i am happy there id like to renew it but i will be 35 years old then. Am i allowed to stay for 3 years on a whv consecutively so long as i arrive before im 36 or if i turn 36 in oz i wont be allowed to renew for a 3rd year whv as ill be to old?

  411. Hi, I’m 32 and from England I haven’t done a working holiday and Australia before, if I apply for the Australian working holiday visa now, would I still be required to do the farm work to extend the visa in the future?

  412. Hi there!
    In your article you said:
    „Other partner countries (such as Germany) are still in the process to amend the bilateral Working Holiday Maker agreement expanding the eligibility age to 35“

    Can you give me some more information on how you know that Germany is already in the process of amending the age limit? I can‘t find anything about that online, it would be amazing!

    Thank you!!!

  413. Hi peeps am moving to Brisbane on
    30th Jan on my 417 just wondering what travel insurance to take out with me Gona be gone for at 3 years or can I just take short term cover until I get there and then sort it in ozz thanks

  414. Hi I’ve landed in Brisbane and have a job next couple of weeks how dose it work with working for the same company for more than 6 months as this job is long term also how long is it before I apply for my 2nd year visa and how do I do it thanks

    • Hi Tony,
      From 1 January 2024, until further government decisions, you can work for the same employer in Australia for more than 6 months without asking permission if your work is:

      in different locations and work in any one location does not exceed 6 months
      in plant and animal cultivation anywhere in Australia
      in certain industries, including aged care and disability services, fishing and pearling, tree farming and felling, construction and mining, in northern Australia only (see Northern Australia)
      natural disaster recovery work
      in critical sectors, including agriculture, food processing, health, aged and disability care and childcare, anywhere in Australia
      in the critical sector of tourism and hospitality anywhere in Australia.

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