First Week on a Working Holiday Visa: A Checklist
Updated: 2 days ago
Just arrived in Australia on a Working Holiday visa (subclass 417 or 462)? There's a lot to sort out in your first week. Here's a simple checklist based on official government sources, so you can start work and settle in with fewer surprises.
1. Check your visa in VEVO
VEVO is a free Home Affairs service that shows your visa type, expiry date and conditions. Employers can use it to check your work rights, and you can email the result to them. See our step-by-step guide: How to check your visa with VEVO.
2. Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)
The ATO says it's free to apply for a TFN, and you don't need to send documents.
If you hold a valid work rights visa (Working Holiday Makers are included) and you're in Australia, you can apply online.
Your TFN is posted to the Australian address you give, usually within 28 days. Don't apply twice during that time, as it can cause delays.
Keep your TFN private. Only share it with trusted organisations such as your employer, bank, super fund or the ATO.
3. Open a bank account and get a SIM
You'll need an Australian bank account to get paid, and a local phone number for job applications and two-step logins. Compare fees before you choose, and never share your banking passwords or one-time codes with anyone.
4. Know your super
Superannuation is money your employer pays into a super fund for your retirement. The ATO says the super guarantee rate is 12% for 2026–27, and from 1 July 2026 employers pay super with each payday ("Payday Super"). When you leave Australia for good, you may be able to claim it back through a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP). Check the ATO website for the rules and tax rates.
5. Learn your work rights
The Fair Work Ombudsman says Australian workplace laws apply to you the same way they apply to everyone else, whatever your visa.
Your pay is usually set by an award or enterprise agreement. Use the Fair Work Pay Calculator to check the minimum rate for your job.
"Cash in hand" pay without tax taken out is unlawful. Check your payslip every time you're paid.
Your employer can't cancel your visa. Only the Department of Home Affairs can.
Need help? Contact the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94.
6. Sort out health cover
If you aren't covered by Medicare, Home Affairs strongly recommends private health insurance for all visitors. Thinking of moving to a student visa later? You'll need OSHC. Compare plans on our OSHC page.
Thinking about study?
Working Holiday visa? This way. If you'd like to gain a qualification during your stay, see our Fast-track courses. Check your visa conditions in VEVO before you enrol.
Good to know
This is general information only, not legal, tax or visa advice.
We International is an education agency working with registered migration partners. For visa advice we can refer you to a migration professional: Migration Support.
Questions? Send us an enquiry
Fill in our enquiry form at weintervisa.com/contact-us.
Sources: Australian Taxation Office (TFN for temporary visitors; super guarantee rate and Payday Super); Fair Work Ombudsman, Visa holders and migrant workers fact sheet; Department of Home Affairs (VEVO; adequate health insurance).
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