Australia Suspends Work & Holiday Visas for Portuguese Citizens
PublishedEditorial policy
Australia has temporarily suspended its Work & Holiday (Subclass 462) visa program for citizens of Portugal, effective August 24, 2026. New applications are no longer being accepted, and existing applications may face delays or refusal. Portugal is one of 23 countries affected by this broader policy change.
Key takeaways
- New applications for Australia's Work & Holiday (Subclass 462) visa from Portuguese citizens are no longer being accepted.
- The program is suspended indefinitely, with no specified date for its resumption.
- Existing Work & Holiday visa applications from Portuguese nationals may experience delays or be refused; applicants should monitor their status with the Department of Home Affairs.
- Portugal is one of 23 countries impacted by this suspension, reflecting a wider Australian policy decision.
Australia Halts Work & Holiday Visa Program for Portugal
Effective August 24, 2026, Australia has suspended its Work & Holiday visa program (Subclass 462) for citizens of Portugal. This program, which allowed young individuals aged 18–30 (and sometimes up to 35) to live, work, and travel in Australia for up to 12 months, is no longer accepting new applications from Portuguese nationals.
Portugal is among 23 countries affected by this suspension, indicating a broader policy adjustment by Australia. The reasons for this widespread suspension have not been specified by the Australian authorities.
For Portuguese citizens who have already submitted an application for the Work & Holiday visa, delays or outright refusals are now possible. Applicants are advised to check their status directly with the Department of Home Affairs. The timeline for the program's resumption remains unclear, prompting those with Australia travel plans via this visa to consider alternatives or await further announcements.
Sources
Based on Emigro corridor reporting. Primary links below.
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