Working Holiday Visa: The 6-Month Employer Limit Explained
Updated: 2 days ago
If you hold a Working Holiday (subclass 417) or Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa, you've probably heard of the "6-month rule". Here's what it means, based on the Department of Home Affairs.
The basic rule
Working Holiday Makers generally can't work for the same employer for more than 6 months without permission. This is separate from the 4-month study limit.
The exceptions (from 1 January 2024)
Home Affairs says that from 1 January 2024 you can work for the same employer for more than 6 months without asking permission if you work in:
Plant and animal cultivation, anywhere in Australia
Natural disaster recovery, anywhere in Australia
Critical sectors, anywhere in Australia: agriculture (including food processing), health services, aged care and disability services, childcare, and tourism and hospitality
Fishing and pearling, tree farming and felling, construction and mining in specified postcodes in northern Australia
Different locations, as long as you don't work in any one location for more than 6 months
Home Affairs says the critical-sector arrangement "applies until the Government makes further decisions". It could change, so check the official page before you rely on it.
Asking for permission
If none of the exceptions apply, you can ask Home Affairs for permission to work longer. The two grounds are:
You've applied for a visa that allows ongoing full-time work and are waiting for the outcome.
Your work is critical to your employer, with supporting documents.
Practical tips
Check your own visa conditions for free in VEVO. See our VEVO guide.
Keep payslips and records of where and for whom you worked.
Thinking of studying too? Read our guide to the 4-month study rule.
Need visa advice?
This article is general information only, not migration advice. We International is an education agency working with registered migration partners, and we can't guarantee any visa outcome. For advice about your situation, see our Migration Support page or speak to a registered migration agent.
Sources
Department of Home Affairs, "6-month work limitation" (Working Holiday Maker program, last updated 21 September 2026): immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
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