New visa allows Filipinos to work while on vacation in Australia

Soon, Filipino tourists can work while on vacation in Australia, and vice versa.

In the memorandum of understanding (MOA) signed during Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's official visit last Friday, both countries agreed to issue multiple entry visas allowing their citizens to work during their stay for a non-extendable period of not over one year.

Likewise, the said visa agreement will permit nationals of both countries to seek employment while on a holiday "to supplement the cost of their stay."

The 12-month period will commence from the date of first entry and eligible nationals may leave and re-enter the territory of the host participant using the same visa.

The visa arrangement is open to Filipino and Australian nationals who are 18 to 31 years old at the time of the application and who are graduates of tertiary education or have successfully completed at least two years of undergraduate study or post-secondary education.

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

Work and holiday visa holders are also subject to the laws and regulations of the host country. Violations of these laws may result in denial of entry or deportation.

“Nationals of one participant who have been granted a ‘Work and Holiday’ visa under this Memorandum of Understanding may be denied entry or removed from the territory of the other participant in accordance with the laws and regulations of that participant,” it added.

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the MOU will take effect on a date mutually determined by both parties and will be valid for an indefinite period of time unless terminated by written notice through diplomatic channels.