The Australian government announced several changes to temporary visas on September 17, 2026. Second and third Working Holiday Maker visas are expected to move to a ballot system, while a “No Further Stay” condition is set to be expanded across Visitor visas. The measures will be rolled out gradually, and some still require legislative changes.
The Australian government has confirmed that Working Holiday visa applications are still being processed, but at a slower pace than before. Eligible travelers can still apply for a Working Holiday visa, while first Work and Holiday visa applications are currently paused for nationals of 24 countries.
Following a successful trial involving more than 450,000 passengers, Australia will roll out its digital arrival card across all international airports and seaports. The transition will take place gradually over the next 12 to 18 months.
Australia increased the fees for its Working Holiday Maker visas on July 1, 2026. A first Working Holiday visa application now costs AU$840, while a second or third application costs AU$1,000.
Australia is gradually expanding its digital arrival card. Since May 26, 2026, the Australia Travel Declaration has been available to certain international travelers arriving at Melbourne Airport on selected Qantas flights.
Australia continues to roll out its mobile app designed to simplify some remote visa procedures. Since March 24, 2026, the Australian Immi App has been available in 13 additional countries.
