The Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement enters into force today.
The agreement also includes measures designed to improve the mobility of skilled workers and young people, in both directions. From 31 January 2024, Australians up to the age of 35, up from 30, will be able to apply for working holidays in the UK and stay for a maximum of three years instead of two.
Commencement of new arrangements
Under the new arrangements:
- from 1 July 2023, UK passport holders can apply for a Working Holiday visa between the ages of 18 and 35 years inclusive
- from 1 July 2024, UK passport holders can be granted up to three separate Working Holiday visas without having to meet any specified work requirements.
The new arrangements will apply to all Working Holiday (subclass 417) visa applications for UK passport holders lodged from the date of implementation.
Australia is a beautiful country and a destination on many people’s bucket list. It’s known for its breathtaking landscapes, friendly locals, laid-back culture, and world-class beaches. This new agreement offers a fantastic opportunity for UK passport holders to experience all that Australia has to offer. Whether you’re interested in working, travelling, or both, the new arrangements make it easier to achieve your goals.
Age Limit Increased and No Regional Work Requirement!
The Subclass 417 Working Holiday Visa arrangements will remain largely unchanged, except that visa holders will now be able to apply for year long visas for up to three years and no regional work is required after 1 July 2024. This means that you can choose to apply for a first, second, and third visa at any time, as long as you comply with the eligible age requirement.
If you’re interested in taking advantage of this fantastic opportunity, you’ll need to plan your trip carefully. Australia is a big country, and there’s a lot to see, so it’s worth taking some time to research different areas and plan your itinerary.
Reciprocal Health Care
As well as the benefits of traveling and working in Australia, the new arrangements also come with another benefit for UK passport holders. You’ll be able to access reciprocal healthcare arrangements for essential medical treatment during your stay in Australia.
A Unique Opportunity
All in all, the new Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement offers a fantastic opportunity for UK passport holders looking to travel, work, and experience Australia’s amazing culture. The new arrangements will make it easier for UK passport holders to apply for and use Working Holiday Visas, with the age limit now increased to 35 years.
Much of migration practise is about positioning; positioning is then about pathways. Holding a 3 year Working Holiday visa is most advantageous especially when seeking to remain in the UK.
Australian business looking to enter or expand into the UK market can seek assistance from Thames Migration UK visa and migration consultants. To learn more about how to get UK Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and also for UK applicants seeking to gain Australian PR from Working Holiday Visa – Step by Step Process Contact Us