Eligibility & Costs

You are eligible for the 12-month visa if you are aged 18-30 and have graduated from high school.

Visas

You will need to obtain a 462 Work and Holiday Visa for Australia which will enable you to supplement your holiday funds by working while you travel. BUNAC will send you complete instructions on how to apply for the visa.

Work and Holiday Visa
How long can I stay? Up to 12 months
How long can I work? Up to 12 months. However, you cannot work for the same employer for more than six months.
What sort of work can I do? Any
What are the age limits? 18-30 inclusive
Which nationalities can apply US passport holders
Do I need to be in the USA to apply No, but you cannot be in Australia when you apply
What support funds do I need AUS$5000 on arrival in Australia. Please go to www.xe.com for current exchange rates.
How much does the visa cost A$270
Can I take my children You are not eligible for the visa if you have dependent children.

Costs

In addition to the BUNAC program fee of $499, the additional expenses that you need to budget for are:

  • Visa fee, currently A$270
  • Insurance
  • Minimum funds A$5,000
  • Your roundtrip flight.

Insurance

BUNAC offers a policy tailor-made to meet the needs of all Work Australia participants. The cost will depend on the length of your trip and the type of cover you require. For example, a twelve month policy costs $479. Full details will be included with your acceptance pack. All participants must have adequate insurance. If you choose to take an alternative policy, you will need to provide evidence of the cover to BUNAC before travelling.

For more information please click here.

FAQs

Work and travel around Australia

Q. When should I apply to the program?

A. We recommend that you apply as soon as possible. Places are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please allow six weeks for your application to be processed.

Q. Do many people travel alone?

A. Yes. On average 80% of participants travel alone. The package options offer an ideal way for you to make new friends.

Q. How long do I have to stay in Australia?

A. There is no "minimum" time. However, we recommend that you consider a trip of six months or more.

Q. Can I study while on the 12 month 462 visa?

A. Yes. You can study for up to four months.

Q. Is BUNAC insurance mandatory?

A. The BUNAC insurance policy provides excellent coverage (including up to $2,000,000 medical); however, it is not compulsory to purchase our policy. Full policy details can be viewed here. You must show you have coverage for your entire time in Australia. If you are not purchasing the BUNAC policy, you can indicate on the BUNAC insurance declaration (this will be sent with step 2) that you have your own insurance coverage and indemnify BUNAC against any and all consequent claims or costs.

Q. Can I apply to the program from abroad?

A. Yes, you can apply while overseas. However, you cannot be in Australia at the time of application.

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Emily Schmidt

Yes – LOTS!!! Went to Tasmania for a bit, spent Australia Day weekend in Melbourne, rented a car and drove myself from Brisbane to Cairns ( I thought I would enjoy doing that more than taking the Greyhound trip most backpackers do) . I also rented a car and drove the Great Ocean Road from Melblourne to South Australia. Spent 2 months camping around New Zealand.

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