Australia Opens Work and Holiday Visa for 23 Countries Including San Marino

Australia has announced that citizens from 23 countries, including San Marino, can now apply for the Work and Holiday visa under subclass 462. This opportunity allows eligible applicants to travel to Australia and work during their stay.

Visa Application Details

As of October 12, 2026, applications for the Work and Holiday visa are open, although each participating country has a limit on the number of first-time visas available. The program operates on an annual cycle, with applications opening on July 2 each year. However, having an open application cap does not guarantee visa approval, as applicants must meet all visa requirements.

Country-Specific Visa Caps

The number of available visas varies significantly between countries. For instance, Argentina, Chile, and Spain each have 3,400 places, while San Marino has a cap of 100 visas. Other countries with similar low caps include Ecuador and Luxembourg, each with 100 visas available.

Understanding the Cap System

Australia's Department of Home Affairs employs a cap system to regulate the number of first Work and Holiday visas issued. Each country's application status can be classified as open, paused, or closed. An open cap means applications can be submitted, while a paused cap may reopen later in the program year. Closed caps will remain unavailable until the next cycle begins.

What Applicants Should Know

Prospective applicants should verify their eligibility and the latest application status for their country before applying. It is essential to check the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website for updates, as application statuses can change throughout the year. This ensures that individuals are well-informed before making any travel or financial commitments.

In summary, the opening of the Work and Holiday visa subclass 462 for citizens of 23 countries, including San Marino, presents a valuable opportunity for young travelers looking to experience Australia while working temporarily.