Philippine, Australia ‘work, holiday’ visa open to ages 18-31

MANILA, Philippines — Filipinos and Australians aged 18 to 31 can apply for the “work and holiday” visa arrangement signed by the two countries available next year, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).

The memorandum of understanding for reciprocal work and holiday visa arrangements was signed by Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Australian Ambassador Hae Kyong Yu on Sept. 8, allowing citizens of both countries to do short-term work to help pay for their 12-month stay.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed the memorandum during his official visit on Sept. 7-8.

“The... arrangement will allow nationals of both participants to stay in the territory of the other participant for the primary purpose of a holiday, during which they may undertake work to supplement the cost of their stay,” the memorandum stated.

Filipinos and Australians must ensure they graduated college or completed two years of undergraduate studies or post-secondary education.

They should also meet health, character and national security requirements and have medical and health insurance for the duration of their stay.

Australia’s home affairs department said visitors should have enough money to support themselves while in Australia, which would cost around AUD5,000 or approximately P180,862.