Australia Working Holiday Visa Processing Slows Amid Record Applications

Australia's working holiday visa processing has slowed due to a high volume of applications, according to Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke. The Department of Home Affairs is currently receiving a large number of applications for both subclass 417 and subclass 462 visas.

Applicants are advised not to book travel to Australia until they receive written confirmation that their visa has been granted. Processing times have increased, but the exact wait time is unknown.

The slowdown comes as the Australian government works on its broader migration policy. The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme is used for jobs in the agricultural sector, and Burke said some operators may consider switching to backpackers due to strengthened worker protections under PALM.