Australia and Greece evaluating work and holiday visa arrangement

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Created on Tuesday, 14 August 2012 16:11

Written by Editorial staff

Migration agents will want to keep abreast of new changes to Australia's working holiday arrangements - including a new agreement with Greece.

The details of the arrangement are still being hammered out, but according to immigration minister Chris Bowen, the new visa could mirror similar "work and holiday" visas Australia has with a number of other countries, including the United States, Turkey, Thailand, Malaysia, Chile and Papua New Guinea, as well as Argentina.

In a media statement published today (August 14), Bowen pointed to the "strength" of the connection between Australia and Greece, as well as the two nations' "rich relationship" with one another.

However, it could still be some time before the final terms of the agreement are reached, the minister revealed.

"Negotiating a work and holiday arrangement, which must be reciprocal and agreeable to both governments, can take time to finalise and implement," he asserted.

Bowen revealed that the proposed arrangement would allow Australians and Greeks between the ages of 18 and 30 to take an extended holiday in the other country, and they would be permitted to engage in short-term work to fund their travels. Short-term study, in some cases, may also be permitted.

It is thought that the visa period, like other work and holiday visas, would allow participants to travel and work for up to 12 months - and annual visa numbers will be capped.

But it still could be some time before this "significant step" is finalised, Bowen revealed.

"While we recognise the level of enthusiasm by both Greeks and Australians around a successful outcome, we must ensure all key stakeholders are consulted and the necessary administrative arrangements are in place," he said.

Bowen revealed that further details would be released via the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website.

Work and holiday visas (also known as subclass 462) and working holiday visas (subclass 417) are intended to foster closer ties between Australia and arrangement countries - and in certain circumstances, visa holders are permitted to apply for subsequent working holiday or work and holiday visas.

The two types of visa categories differ in that applicants for a work and holiday visa has additional requirements that applicants must meet. Generally, these include the ability to speak English, having the support of their government and either holding or studying for a tertiary qualification.

The last work and holiday visa arrangements finalised by the Australian government was a reciprocal agreement with Argentina in February this year.