Reciprocal work and holiday visa program launched

IMPACT – LOW

What is the change? Australia and Poland have begun a new reciprocal Work and Holiday Visa program for young people.

What does the change mean? Up to 200 individuals between the ages of 18 and 30 in each country may apply for these visas, which will allow them to travel and study in each other’s countries for short stays.

• Implementation timeframe: Aug. 1.
• Visas/permits affected: Work and Holiday Visas.
• Who is affected: Polish and Australian nationals who are at least 18 but less than 31 years of age.
• Impact on processing times: None.
• Business impact: Employers may hire individuals on these visas for up to six months.

Background: Poland is the 11^th country to have a reciprocal work and holiday visa arrangement with Australia, joining Argentina, Bangladesh, Chile, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Thailand, Turkey, the U.S. and Uruguay.

Australia’s Work and Holiday program allows foreign nationals to visit for up to one year, during which time they may study for up to four months and work for up to six months for an employer.

BAL Analysis: The Work and Holiday Visas provide an opportunity for employers with global training programs to employ Polish and Australian nationals.

This alert has been provided by BAL Australia. For additional information, please contact australia@bal.com.

MARN 9683856

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