If you’re planning to extend your Australian adventure, the 88 days working holiday visa requirement is your key to unlocking a second Working Holiday (subclass 417) visa.
This means you can stay longer, work, and travel across Australia by completing 88 days of specified work in regional areas.
For many travellers, these three months of regional work requirements are both a challenge and a rewarding way to immerse yourself in authentic Australian life.
Key takeaway: Completing your 88 days of regional work opens the door to a second working holiday visa, giving you more time to explore and work in Australia.
What Is the 88 Days Working Holiday Visa Requirement?
The 88 days working holiday visa refers to the minimum number of days you must work in approved industries and regional locations to be eligible for a second Working Holiday visa.
This rule applies to holders of the subclass 417 visa who want to extend their stay for another year.
Work can include roles in industries such as agriculture, construction, mining, or tourism, as long as the job is in a designated regional postcode.
Casual, part-time, and full-time work may count, as long as the work meets the official criteria.
Key takeaway: To qualify for a second visa, you must complete 88 days of approved work in eligible industries and regional areas under the official guidelines.
Read also: How To Change From A Tourist Or Working Holiday Visa To A Student Visa In Australia
Eligible Jobs and Regional Work Requirements
Not all jobs count towards the 88 days, which is why it’s important to understand the regional work requirements clearly. Approved work includes:
- Harvesting and packing fruits and vegetables
- Tree farming and felling
- Mining activities
- Construction work
- Bushfire recovery and disaster recovery efforts
All work must be carried out in regional postcodes approved by the Department of Home Affairs.
You can find regional areas across states like Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory.
Key takeaway: Your work must be in eligible industries and regional areas to count towards your 88 days, so always confirm the job’s location and type before starting.
How to Calculate Your 88 Days Correctly
Accurately counting your 88 days is important to avoid delays or visa refusals. Here’s how it works:
- Full-time work usually counts as five days per week.
- Part-time or casual work can count if your total days add up to 88.
- Multiple employers are allowed.
- Weekend work may count if the work falls within the approved industries.
- Paid leave or sick leave generally does not count unless you are entitled to it as part of a full-time contract.
Keeping accurate records including payslips, bank statements, and employer details will help support your application.
Key takeaway: Keep clear records and ensure each day worked fits the approved criteria so your application for a second visa goes smoothly.
When to Complete the 88 Days
You can complete your 88 days at any time during your first Working Holiday visa period. Many travellers choose to start regional work early to secure their second visa eligibility.
Others work seasonally, taking on farm or construction jobs between travels.
Some industries, like agriculture, have peak seasons that fill up quickly, so planning ahead is wise.
Key takeaway: The earlier you start your 88 days, the more flexibility you’ll have in your travel and work plans later on.
Read also: How to Make the Most of Your Work and Holiday Visa in Australia
Applying for Your Second Working Holiday Visa
Once you’ve completed your 88 days, you can apply for your second Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) either while you’re still in Australia or from overseas.
The application is submitted online through the Department of Home Affairs portal.
You’ll need to provide evidence of your 88 days of specified work, including:
- Payslips and tax records
- Employer contact details
- Work dates and regional location details
If approved, your second visa grants you another 12 months to live, work, and travel in Australia.
Key takeaway: Make sure you have complete documentation of your 88 days to avoid processing issues when applying for your second visa.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants make errors that can delay or harm their second visa application. Common mistakes include:
- Doing ineligible work or working in non-regional postcodes
- Not keeping proper evidence
- Miscounting days by including unpaid or unapproved leave
- Relying on cash-in-hand jobs with no records
Avoiding these errors will make your second visa application more straightforward.
Key takeaway: Always follow official requirements closely and keep records to avoid complications with your visa extension.
Could 88 Days Change Your Australian Adventure Forever?
The 88 days working holiday visa requirement is more than just paperwork. It’s an opportunity to experience a different side of Australia.
By understanding the rules, planning your work, and keeping solid records, you can set yourself up for a smooth second visa application and an extended Australian journey.
Key takeaway: Proper planning and compliance with the 88-day requirement allow you to make the most of your working holiday experience.
Ready to Make Your Australian Dream Last Longer?
Are you prepared to take the next step toward extending your stay in Australia?
Unique Education and Migration can guide you through every stage of your visa journey, from understanding the 88-day requirement to securing your second Working Holiday visa.
Our migration professionals provide tailored support to ensure your application is accurate, complete, and stress-free.
Whether you’re working towards a longer adventure or planning a more permanent future, we’re here to help you make it happen. Contact us today and turn your plans into reality.