Working Holiday Visa age limit up to 35 years

Hi, I’ve already completed 1 year travel within Australia and achieved my 88 days farm work. I am from the UK currently aged 30 and turn 31 in November. If I apply for my 2nd visa before I’m 31, this will give me up to 12 months until November 2021 to ‘enter’ Australia, right? Could I then enter use said visa for the 2nd year.. Even though I would be 32?

Hi, I am turning 35 soon, must I apply for my visa before then or do I have until I am 36? Thanks.

Hello, I am an Irish citizen, I have completed my 1st year Australian WHV and I am eligible to apply for my second one. Does the age limit of 35 apply to me even though I did my 1st year WHV before this update in age came in? Thanks

Hay !!
I am from Indonesia, can I apply for WHV when I am 32 years old.? But I have 4 years experience in Agriculture. Because almost all the information I read must be 30 years old.
What about 32 years old but with 4 years experience can still apply for WHV?

Hi there, I’m a UK citizen who was interested in possibly getting one of those working visas to come and live / work in Australia for a year. Only trouble is I turn 31 on Monday! Have I left things too late?

Hi, i applied for a visa and because of covid I’m not able to go, it expires this month. From what I understand i have until 2022 to ask for a WHC WAIVER or a refund.
Is that correct? Any extra info is welcome. Thanks in advance.

Hi. I’m portuguese 31 years old. Never been in Australia. Do I have any chances to get a working holiday visa? No exceptions related with covid-19?

Hi there,

I am an Irish citizen turning 33 and hoping to use this visa in the next year or so. However I work in Banking and want to continue on this job path, can I do so or am I required to engage in ‘casual’ work?

Thanks

Hi there,

I was just wondering, say if you do 88 days of work on your first WHV and you want to apply for a second one but in New Zealand, is that transferable or is it limited to Australia?

Thank you

Hi, I’m 32 years old living in Ireland, UK passport holder, is there any possibility of a WHV when things open

Hi there,
I have just started by second year working holiday visa Feb 2021, however I turned 31 in December 2020. If I complete 6 months of agriculture work this year will I be eligible for a third year visa, I have heard mixed stories of the visas been granted and not granted. Otherwise I’ll know if I should do my 6 months agriculture work or not

Hi,

I am a 26 year old French citizen. I have found a job in Sydney but need to work out the visa. Is it possible to enter Australia at the moment? Is the government releasing any work holiday visas at the moment?

Hi I have exceeded the age limit for a U.K. citizen (33yrs),
Are there any other way to work in aus and possibly live there eventually. I have family that immigrated over 10yrs ago and own a business. Can this help or is there any other way to get over there?
Thanks

Hey there!!

I am a 33 year old Canadian passport holder (currently living in the UK). I would love to apply for an Australian WHV. However, do I need to wait until the borders open to do so? Any indication of when this may be and how long the visa application takes?

Also, can you work the full year in one job or only 6 months?

Thanks so much for all your help!!

Corinne

Hi,

I just wondered whether you know if and potentially when the UK age limit May increase to 35. I’m 32 and procrastinated too much previously, and missed my chance!

If not, then are my other options permanent residence applications?

Thanks

Hi, i am from the uk and applied for my first year visa a month before turning 31. It is saying the process will take 4 months to be granted. Do i have a year to enter once it is granted or from when i applied?

Also, if the age limit is indeed upped to 35, i am assuming i will be able to do a second and third year?

Any light would help! Thanks, James

Do we know how long it took for the Canadian/Irish/french age limit to change to 35? Surely it can’t take too long to come into effect

Hi, I am from the Uk and have completed both my first year and second year WHV. Can I apply for a third year WHV as i worked in the construction industry until I left Australia in November 2019?

Many thanks,

Dan

Hi guys,

I’m a UK resident and I’m currently working on my subclass 417 application. The online application says the “State / Province” section of the Place of Birth information is a required field. Any idea what to put in this section, as states and provinces don’t really exist in the UK? I was born in Tyne and Wear, and this seems the most logical.

Cheers!

Hi im in scotland and 33. I was wondering if i can still get a visa as seen something about them going to 35? Thanks

Just wondering if I applied for a working holiday visa at 23 and worked and got my second year working holiday visa and completed it. At 30 years of age can I apply for a working holiday visa again?!

Hello,

I have already completed my 1 year WHV. I didn’t do my farm work. When this comes into play does this mean I can apply for a second year?

Thank you

Hi
I’m from U.K. I’m 30 my partner is 31 (32 next month)
Are we able to apply for WHV or do we need to wait until the age limit has increase indefinitely ?
Also my partner did his first year approx 8 years ago. Does he still apply for second ?

Thanks.

Jay

Hi there. I am 31 yo turning 32 in June 2022. I am from UK and hold a British passport. I have never before being in Australia and was wondering if I could apply for visa?

I applied for a working holiday visa in 2011 and went and stayed/worked in australia for a year but didn’t realise about the “specfic work” until too late, im now 33 and a half years old from London, and on the uk news it says that the new working holiday visa might not need to have the specific work to get second visa?

Hey

Do we have any more news on when this agreement for upto 35 could take place. I heard they met last week but nothing was signed. You think July 2022 is realistic

If for example it does get signed then is there a waiting time to get it from then or you could apply more or less straight away

Also, when you apply what’s the odds on getting one. As this isn’t based on a points system like the skilled one so is it just more or less anyone qualifies but you can only give so many out ?

Thanks

Hi i have previously been to Australia on a working holiday visa and completed more than 88 days. Ive now been home for nearly 2 years due to covid im 33 from the uk is there a chance of getting a second year whv when the age limit raises to 35? Or will i need to look at different visa options? Thanks

Hi, I applied for a working holiday visa back in 2015. I stayed in Aus for 4 months working for a university, but then came home. I’m now 34 and hoping to apply for a new working holiday visa (hopefully next year) before I turn 36 in March 2023. Given I already had one of these visas in 2015, will I still be eligible for second, assuming the age limit increases to 35 before I turn 36 in 2023?
Thanks!

Hey guys, iam 29 at the moment, turning 30 in 6 months… I alread got to the medical exam stage and was now wondering, if I now do the checkup and get positiv feedback and my application gets accepted, let’s say end of January, is my 12 month visa than valid from that day on or can I also enter for example in November 2022 (I would still be 30) and still have the full 12 month? Let me know guys, thank you very much; you should get payed from the home affairs agency

Hello

I previously had a WHV for 2 years back in 2011, when the visa age limit gets increased would I be able to apply as a UK citizen?

I have already done a working holiday visa but was unable to do the farm work to make me eligible for a second year because of the covid restrictions. My intention was to enjoy the first 6 months and then do my farm work but couldn’t because of all the restrictions the country had in place due to covid. I knew I was too old to get my second year but was going to do the farm work anyway due to hearing the rumours of age increase which is actually happening, July 1st I have heard. I had to leave early because I lost my job as well. Where do I stand? Could I possibly be granted the new one due to the circumstances the country and I was in when I was living there because if none of this had happened I would’ve done my farm work like I had planned and be eligible for my second year when the age increase is in place.

Hi there,

I held my 2 WHV’s from March 2018-March 2020, as far as I can remember the 6 month farmwork for UK visa holders for a 3rd year wasn’t an option at the time.
When the new trade deal comes into effect, can I get a third year visa seeing as there’s no farmwork requirement moving forward anyway?

Hi,

My partner (UK resident) was been granted a working holiday visa on 6th December 2021. We don’t intend to pick up the visa from the Aus Embassy in London and enter Aus until December 2022. Although it was granted before July 2022 (presumably when these changes come in), would my partner still be given a 3 year visa with no work restrictions because we wont be entering until after the date these changes come into play?? Thanks in advance!! Love the information on the website!!

can I renew my working holiday visa before it expires? I am applying for the first year now and will turn 30 in april.
I imagine going to Australia in October and doing the 3 months of specific work to be eligible for visa renewal.
However, my first visa year would expire in October 2023 and I would already be 31 years old.
Could I apply in April, before I turn 31? even though it’s 6 months to my first visa expires? Or could I apply for a new extension visa even though I have already turned 31?
or in that case would I only be eligible for a one year visa?

I held a 417 WHV January 2019-2020, and I didn’t do the 88 days regional/farm work so wasn’t eligible for the 2nd year visa.
When the new “no work necessary” rules come into place in July, will I be able to apply for my 2nd year?

Hi there,

I am from Holland. I’m currently 32 years of age and already did a working holiday in 2019-2020. Had to leave because of covid but luckily I finished my farm work just in time. So I applied for the second WH visa before I turned 31 in August 2020. For a long time I didn’t really hear anything until the 10th of December 2021(!!), when my second WH visa got approved. I was surprised to say the least. Now, because the age restriction for my country is 30, can I still make use of the visa because I’m 32 at the moment and will be 33 on August 29 this year? The visa got approved and it saids I must enter Australia before December 10th. Cheers!

Regards,
Jelmer

Hi, can you enter Australia on a working holiday visa with a child?

Hi i done a years whv in 2010. Can i apply for another one before im 36? Thanks

Hello! Im a British passport holder. I applied for a working holiday visa just before I turned 31, it got approved but I was unable to use it due to covid, and border closure. The visa expired and I wasn’t able to reapply because I turned 31.

Will that be an issue if I reapply once the age limit changes to 35??

I am 30 years old and turn 31 in December, I have already completed 1 year in Australia and did do my farm work, I am a British citizen, would I be able to return for a further year?

Hi
Can I apply hoildays visa before I turn into my 36 birthday.
Or 35?

Hi, I’m from the UK recently turned 31 years old , I haven’t been to Australia before , but looking to come out to work.

Did they increase the 18-30 age to 35? Or will I be unable to do this

Thanks, Dean

Hi. I’m 28 and nearly half way through my third year WHV, what are my best options for staying in Australia..?

Hi I am 34 and have a recent criminal record for failing to provide and breath test. Will this affect me getting my whv. Also when is it likely to change to 35yr limit. And can I complete what needs to be completed time/visa wise at this age or will I run out of time

I have applied for my first holiday working visa, and planning to fly over next February from the UK. By this time I will be 31.

Does that mean I would not be able to apply for the second year working visa even though I am still over there and completed the mandatory work needed?

Or should I just cross my fingers and hope that the 35 year old extension goes through?

Hi, I applied for a WHV back in 2015, I entered Australia on this visa but never worked, only travelled for 4 months. Would I be able to apply for another WHV because I did not work?

Hi there,

I just discovered the WHV program is extending to 35 years old for UK citizens (fingers crossed)
I also see a third year has been added if you do 6 months of agricultural work in your second year (this wasn’t an option when I previously completed my second year WHV)
In my second year on a WHV in Australia I did work for 6 months in agricultural work. Do you think it would be possible to use that work from 2017 to apply for a third WHV? I’m 33 now.

Thank you

Hi, I am a UK citizen with an upto date passport. I will turn 35 on May 2nd. Can I apply for a WHV now? If not, do you know when or even if I ever will be able to before I turn 36 in 2023? Thanks

Hi there, just noticed on a few websites the mention that the FTA possibly won’t come into force until 2024. Just wondering if there is any official info on when the visa age increase is now likely to come into force. Currently 35 and turning 36 in Nov 2022, so a bit worried about the timeframe and possibility of missing out. Thanks

Hi you guys. I’m 28 and from the UK; I have just applied for my first WHV. Complete newb.

I have a tricky question – first, I’ll be 29 by the time I arrive in Australia. And as things stand with the 30 y/o limit, that means I can apply for the second years WHV when I’m 30 and stay a second year. However, when that year is up, I’d then be too old to apply for a third years WHV.

Let’s assume this 35 y/o limit doesn’t come into force – is there any other way to stay longer? I.e if you’re over the age limit for a third WHV? Is the only way to stay permanently (without studying or getting married!) to find an employer who will sponsor you to stay?

Second question, and I doubt you’ll know this – let’s say I’m in Australia doing my 88 days of hard graft for my first WHV and then the new 3-year visa option comes into play – think I’ll be able to start from scratch again? I.e get the 3 year visa (which may have more relaxed restrictions on what work one can do?).

Cheers

Any news on when the bilateral will change to 35? I’m 35 now and have until Jan 2023 before I turn 36.

Hi all, I’ve just seen an update to the new WHM visa for UK passport holders (when it gets implemented). It gives good clear examples for people that are new to applying for the first time and also for people who have already had a stint in Australia and where they stand on applying for the ‘new’ visa when it comes out.

I think it will answer a lot of people’s questions in this forum and is generally very good news for all

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/whm-program/latest-news/arrangements-uk-passport-holders

Hi, with the announcement that the age is to be increased to 35 for Danish and Italian on the 1st of July 22. There’s no mention of the U.K. does that now mean it’s unlikely the U.K. change is to come in on the 1st of July after all?

Hi,

I know it’s speculation at the moment, but how confident are you the new WHV for over 35 year old from the UK will go through this year? i’ve read reports saying it may be July and then others saying it could be within the next 2 years?

I’ve just turned 31 so have to wait for the new visa and hopeful it’s this year but also dont want to put my life on hold for 2 years if it’s happening 2024!

Hi,

I’m within the age limit 29 but my husband is turning 40 this year. He always wanted to do the WHM. Could he join me on my visa, as spouse? Is that an option?

Hi mate, any update on whether the UK will change the age limit to 35 soon? I really need this to happen and I’ve heard some news articles say this will happen by 1 July 2022. Cheers mate

Hi,

I’m 30 and turn 31 in November? Is the age limit getting increased to 35? And does the year start from the day you apply? Or say it’s accepted.

Thanks

Hey have you any update on when the age from UK will change to 35 to get into Australia? 🙂 I keep coming mixed comments – thank you

hi there,

do you think the UK and AUS will increase the WHV ages to 35 by 1 July 2022? I really need to get there soon so hoping this happens

Hey there!
I am 34 years old from USAand currently residing in Bali, Indonesia.
It’s unfortunate for me that USA wasn’t part of the age limit increase.
Does anyone here know of any other way I can enter Australia for temporary work?
I have some friends who are suggesting to apply for a study visa and take a short course which also allows for 40 hour work week whilst attending a course.
What do you guys think?
Thank you!

Please, if I was granted the WHV before (when I was 30) but haven’t entered Australia, can I apply again and be granted it again?
Thank you!
Giovanni

Hi I have read the UK has just introduced this bill as of yesterday (11.05.22)

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-bill-to-enable-implementation-of-australia-and-new-zealand-trade-deals

Good news?!?!

Hi when you go for the working visa what information do you need to have. I have been told you need a police report also what vaccine do you need to have thanks.

Hi

Seeing as the age for UK citizens is going to 35, and i already have my first year approved (i plan to enter in November) if i arrive at age 32, then in theory i should be able to extend my stay for 3 years, taking me to just before i turn 36?

Thanks!
James

Hi just wondering what information is needed for the visa as I have been living in Thailand for 11 months do you need a police report also what vaccines are needed I’ve had 2nd one do I need to have my 3rd to be safe for a job. Also what date do we think the age will increase for applying for the visa

thanks

Hello!

I am 30 and turn 31 on the 21st of June. I have my first WHV sorted but just want to check, do I have to be in the country before I turn 31 next month or can I come a few days after? My Visa expiry is May 2023 so I’m assuming I can enter after my 31st as the visa was completed prior to me turning 31, is this correct? I should say, I’m from the UK.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Hello,

I turn 31 in August. Is it best to apply now or wait until the new age limit comes into place? Would I still need to complete the mandatory farm work to get the second year, or would I still benefit from the rule change?

Thanks

Hello,

Is it possible to make another YMV? I am a canadian who used hers in 2014. Now I am 32 wondering if I can get another YMV now that the age is to 35?

Thanks!!

Hi,

I’m from the UK and currently 30 years old, I turn 31 in March of next year. I’m looking into getting a visa to australia and need to come up with the best plan possible

Few questions- How long do i have to apply for my visa and how long will this process take? When receiving my one year visa do i have to enter the country before turning 31? I also see that the visa age limit will change to 35 for brits soon. Do you know when this is law is likely to come into play?

Do we have a rough estimate of when the new UK Aus FTA will come into effect? Was first reported at July 1st but that doesn’t seem true now.

I’m losing hope that both governments are going to enact the 35 age limit anytime soon. And I need it to be done soon as well

Hi, it’s June now. Do we have any news about the U.K. 35 year old threshold?

Hello,

Does anyone know for certain that the new working holiday visa (UK/Aus) will definitely commence this year? I’ve seen a lot of comments on various forums that say it will commence on the 1st July but as it gets closer and closer to the date there are barely any news articles or certified sources to state this is the case, which I so desperately have been hoping for.

Recently there has been an update on the House of Commons page to say the trade deal was formally laid before parliament on 15th June, and now it provides for a minimum of a further 21 sitting days before the UK can ratify the agreement, which correct me if I’m wrong takes us to 5th of July? And won’t it be another 30 days to then come into affect?

It would be really useful if anyone else has found further information or confirmed sources instead of the generic response: “the agreement will commence within 2 years” as most of us are already aware and are desperate for some good news with a more specific date (fully understand it’s a long shot).

Thank you!

It’s July 1st and still nothing announced from both governments. Very disappointed

did anything get announced yesterday as expected regarding the new working holiday visa??

Hi,

Since it recently went through for Danish and Italian citizens has there been any update on when the age increase to the working holiday visa will come into effect for Brits?

When the change is made for Brits will they be able to apply from inside Australia if they are already there on a tourist, or other, visa,?

Thanks for all your work to help us understand what’s going on.

Hello,

I too was due to apply when I turned 30 but missed the boat – UK citizen. I will turn 35 Jan 2023 and 36 in Jan 2024 and understand in 2024 the age will change to 35 for Brits? When would be the best time for me to apply? I don’t want to miss out again

Why does this article say Australia has been accepting the new visa since March?

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10947823/amp/Nationals-senator-Bridget-McKenzie-blames-lack-overseas-backpackers-12-lettuce-Australia.html

My comment was deleted yesterday?!

Anyway….

Why does this article state that they’ve been accepting the updated visa terms since March?

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10947823/amp/Nationals-senator-Bridget-McKenzie-blames-lack-overseas-backpackers-12-lettuce-Australia.html

Do you think this has something to do with the delay to the FTA?

https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm5803/cmselect/cmintrade/117/summary.html

https://committees.parliament.uk/publications/22988/documents/168417/default/

Does seem there is some good news within the article though: “We welcome the planned changes to the Working Holiday Maker and Youth Mobility schemes, and the new Innovation and Early Careers Skills Exchange Pilot.”

Hi, I’m looking to go to Australia in august, and I’m from the Uk. If I get a year working visa, before the new 18-35 visa is approved, will I be able to change visas to avoid doing the farm work please? Or will I have to do the farm work, then apply for the new visa once the 12 months run out?

This is a great find, Charles. I’ve been following this WHV change closely and hoping it enters into force soon. Where is your source for the 20th July for UK signing of their side?

From what I read you have to apply for the WHV (if it’s your first) from outside of Australia.
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/work-holiday-417/first-working-holiday-417
(See ‘you must’ bullet points)

This is so frustrating it’s taken this long to change the age limit to 35. Lost all hope

So i’ve found this below news article:

https://7news.com.au/politics/australia-uk-fta-due-to-be-legislated-c-7082377

It states that the The Australia-Britain Free Trade Agreement is due to be passed through parliament when it resumes, and will likely come into effect by the end of the year or early 2023.

The commissioner says the process will be concluded when the 47th parliament begins onm July 26.

“The trade deal is done and dusted. It’s signed, so it’s going through parliamentary processes because free trade agreements are international treaties and have to be legislated,” Ms Treadell told AAP.

“That’s gone very well so far. We very much look forward to the Free Trade Agreement coming into effect at the end of this year or the beginning of next year.”

So i guess this is good news in that it’s def going ahead so hopefully will be end of this year latest.

I’m in the same boat as you chloe. Life on hold and in a job I cannot wait to quit until this deal comes into effect. At this stage lost all hope as it keeps getting pushed further and further back, and I turn 36 in aug of next year so time is running out. Might look at other countries to go to now while they have actual policies in place.

I am also in the waiting lane for the age limit to increase, very frustrating :). As you can’t apply for a first year working holiday visa whilst in Australia, do you know if you can apply whilst not in the UK? E.g. if I applied whilst in Asia, and flew from there?

Any info you have would be much appreciated!
Hang in there guys, we’ll get there!

Hi,

I was wondering if i could apply for the Working holiday visa outside the uk but also not within Australia? I am a uk citizen?

Thanks all of your help!

For anyone interested the Australian Joint Standing Committee on Treaties has added the UK-Australia FTA to their list of current inquiries with the following info:

“The inquiry was re-referred to the Committee on Monday, 1 August 2022. The Treaty and related documents can be found on the Treaty being considered page.

The Committee will not be re-opening submissions and will use the evidence and records of the previous Committee received in the 46th Parliament.”

The reporting date is 16 November 2022 which is the earliest reporting date of any of their current inquiries.

Source:
https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Treaties

What does that mean Charles?

Hello!

Any idea when they might increase the age limit for Estonian citizens? Or where I could find info about that? I know that currently the age limit is 30 years.

Hey guys!

First of all thanks in advance for your time. Wondering if it is possible to apply for a WHV 417 with an Italian Passport if I had already lived in Australia for 2 years with my Argentinian Passport (under a WHV 462)? I really would like to go back, i have been working in regional areas all my stay there during the covid but I turned 33 this year. I didnt receive the approval of the covid Visa and i left the country without applied for a Bridging B..my bad. u know if there is any possibility to get an exemption?

Hi there!

Is it possible to extend my arrival date on my accepted first year working holiday visa? It currently states ‘arrival before 10 december 2022’ – could i push this back to january 2023?

Moreover if i cannot arrive before the date given can i re-apply for the whv?

Thanks!
James

Here is a bit more info regarding the reporting date of the UK-Australia FTA:

“Category 1 and Category 2 treaties (major treaty actions) automatically stand referred to the Committee for inquiry and report upon tabling in the Parliament. The Committee will generally report on these treaties within 20 and 15 joint sitting days respectively”.

The committee can decide it requires more rigorous inquiry and extend the time frame, they can also decide that it’s urgent and exempt it from the standard 20 or 15 days.

So if sitting days for the committee are Mon-Fri the report could be released much sooner than Nov 16.

Source:
https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Treaties/Role_of_the_Committee

Thanks Charles.

Looking at 2023 best case scenario now aren’t we unfortunately!

Not holding my breath

Hi Chloe. To my knowledge neither the Australian nor UK governments gave July 1st 2022 as the date the age changes would occur.

I disagree regarding the trade deal not entering into force until 2024. The reporting date for the JSCOT is Nov 16. After the report is released the Australian government can ratify their side of the deal and it should enter into force one month after that. Whether the age increase to the WHV will occur on the same day remains to be seen.

However, I agree that looking at alternative visa options is a good idea and am doing the same. Best of luck with it all.

Hello,
I come from Italy, I am 35 y.o. and will turn 36 in January 2023. I have just got my firt working holiday Visum, valid until 28.8.2023. Do I need to enter Australia before I turn 36 or can I enter the Country within the next 12 Months, even if I will be 36 y.o. ? Thank u

https://www.ft.com/content/2fb5996e-32fd-423b-9f21-142e7f956ebf

“Completed by early 2023”.

Disappointing. Hopefully they can speed up this process but it sure is dragging its heels.

I hold a Uk passport . I’m 31 is it now possible to work in Aus up to the age of 35 ?

I completed my first year when I was 21 and earned my second year but never ended up using it . Have they extended the age to 35 now ?

Can you paste the article Bradley? it won’t let me read without subscribing.

Thanks

Thanks for the info Bradley.

Sorry as you may not know and it’s still unknown or if the article said more to it.

But does this mean age range will be done by 2023 ?

As I’m hoping it gets done by august next year as I’m 31, looking to go in September next year.

I want to break down and cry because this is taking so long

Should have some update on Tuesday then…

“Trevelyan returns home on Saturday and will introduce legislation to the House of Commons on Tuesday that would make the British-Australian free trade deal law.”

https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/uk-minister-vows-wide-ranging-support-australian-subs-89210344

It’s talking about submarines..

Hi!

Is it possible to push back on the latest arrival date of my first year visa? It says entry by 15 December 2022. Can i push back to January?

Thanks!
James

https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/international-trade-secretary-speech-to-australian-chambers-of-commerce

Quote from her speech

The UK is focused on ratifying the agreement as soon as possible.

The reason I have to head home tomorrow is because I’ll be presenting the enabling legislation for the FTA to the House of Commons on Tuesday – the next stage towards implementing this legislation, so our firms and citizens can start to enjoy its benefits.

I know your government is focused on moving ahead at pace too.

For people who are desperate to get to Australia. Can you not just apply for the WFH visa now and go?
If we now can strongly assume the new rules will come affect some point in 2023. Which means it will come into affect during your first year of the WHV, which should mean you will be able to extend it for the further two whilst your there.

https://www.skynews.com.au/wp-content/themes/newscorpau-news-dna/dist/images/favicons/skynews-32×32.png

Looks like November or end of 2022….

Thanks for the update! A couple of quotes worth keeping in mind:

“I am confident that by the end of the year we’ll have done everything we need to do to legally set up the Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement,”

“The treaty has already been submitted to the British House of Commons and will be sent through the committee stage in the next two weeks”

So it looks like both sides are keen to get it done soon. But:

“Australians eligible for the UK’s Youth Mobility Program will expand from 30 to 35 years of age within two years of the agreement coming into effect”

Hopefully the age changes happen on the day it enters into force or very shortly after.

“Australians eligible for the UK’s Youth Mobility Program will expand from 30 to 35 years of age within two years of the agreement coming into effect”

I don’t understand why there would be a further delay on that aspect when that is part of the deal?

It’s part of the deal but I remember reading something about the removal of the necessary work requirement happening within two years after it’s potential impact has been assessed. Maybe it’s related to that.

Just realised I didn’t link the article. Here it is:
https://www.skynews.com.au/australia-news/politics/young-australians-the-big-winners-as-labor-government-expects-legislative-work-on-uk-free-trade-deal-to-be-done-by-end-of-year/news-story/f0c6f6fdad9db9c8f8dbe319478ae6f8

Let’s hope once the FTA comes into effect the age changes immediately. I cannot wait a further 2 years

This is my hope too. I don’t personally mind if the necessary work requirement remains I would just like to get there ASAP.

Australian Parliament is suspended until Sept 20th so this may delay the AUKFTA report coming out.

https://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/McGowan/2022/09/State-Parliament-suspended-in-honour-of-Her-Majesty-the-Queen.aspx

I have written to the UK Committee overseeing the report on the trade bill.

They were due to sit on the 14th Sept, with their report due out on the 22nd. But of course this is now put back due to The Queen dying.

I have made it clear that the Under 35 agreement should be implemented, as soon as the deal is ratified and into effect, as it would help labour markets, businesses and exporters.

I suggest those who want it implemented straight away do the same. scrutiny@parliament.uk

Thank you Bradley

Hi

Can you apply for the first year WHV if you already were granted one before, but never actually used it?

Thanks!
James

Ok great, i currently have a visa approved and the arrival date is 10th December this year which i may struggle to do. I am over 30 now and from the UK but in theory if the age gets bumped up to 35 at some stage next year say; i’ll be able to re-apply for the first year visa again when that happens?

Thanks!
James

https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/sep/20/fears-australian-farm-labour-woes-may-worsen-with-loss-of-uk-backpackers-under-trade-deal

‘….

However, after the Coalition government signed the UK-Australia free trade agreement last year, British backpackers will no longer need 88 days of farm work to extend their working holiday visas. The relaxed requirements will not come into effect until at least 2024 as the deal has not yet come into force.

…’

Not sure where they are getting this ‘at least till 2024’ info from though? I can’t see it anywhere else online. Anyone else found anything?

Official response from DIT.

Thank you for your email of the 8 September enclosing a query about the Youth Mobility
Scheme and the UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement.

Our ground-breaking free trade agreement with Australia is the first trade deal negotiated from scratch by the UK since we left the EU. It will deliver benefits to people, businesses and communities throughout the country, and I am heartened to read that you want to take advantage of one of the many opportunity it affords.

As you set out in their email, the UK and Australia will make changes to the Youth Mobility schemes so that they are available to people aged 18 to 35 years inclusive for a total stay of up to 3 years. This also includes removing requirements in Australia for UK nationals using the Working Holiday Maker programme to undertake specific types of work, for example on a farm.

We are currently working with the Australian Government on the next steps required to implement these commitments and once further changes have been made to these schemes they will be publicised.

The operationalisation of the new commitments on the Working Holiday Maker programme is ultimately a matter for the Australian Government and we would recommend consulting the Australian Department of Home Affairs website for the latest visa information including eligibility requirements.

The UK and Australia will continue to review mobility arrangements, in line with their respective immigration systems, with the aim of further enhancing the ability for citizens to live, work and travel in each other’s country on a mutually advantageous basis.

And I can reassure you and your constituents that we are working to bring the UK-Australia FTA into force as early as possible so that UK citizens and businesses can reap the full range of benefits across the deal.

So reading between the lines, it’s up to the Australian Government to decide when it comes int affect.

Lost all hope that this will get done this year…

Thanks for the update again Bradley, I’m just hoping this is done by September next year for me personally as I turn 31 in august. As I plan to leave after I’m 31!

Hi! What are the options for a 32 portuguese yo to get a long stay visa?

With all the turmoil in the UK I don’t expect this to be done anytime soon

https://t.co/AQJgnBSvSG

Don Farrell -“I’m confident these deals will be in place by the end of the year”.

Yeh but will the age limits change.

Hola! Soy una española de 34 años que esta pensando en solicitar la WORK AND HOLIDAYS, sé que han prolongado el visado hasta los 35 años, pero no sé si para ciudadanos españoles esto es posible o se mantienen la solicitud para personas de 18 a 30.

Gracias.
Un saludo.
Patricia.

Hi, I’m Italian, just turned 35. I got my first WHV back in 2017, as the age limit recently changed, will I be able to get a second WHV? I didn’t not complete 88 days of farm work. Thanks

My god this thing is taking forever. Albo keeps talking about letting more immigrants in but putting these plans into effect seems to be taking forever

Hi providing that the age limit increase to 35 years old for UK citizens is taking its time and it is uncertain of final dates. Are there any other options for 31+ year olds to come to Australia to work? IS permanent residence the only option?? would love to know more struggling to find info online
thanks 🙂

Hi. Does anyone know if the UK changes government, will that affect or stop this uk-australia FTA?

They are still dragging their feet with this. Absolutely annoyed

I’ve given up on this. There’s patience and then there’s being realistic. I turn 36 in August next year so time is of the essence. Absolute joke.

Something I can’t seem to find out is:

I am currently 31 years old (UK). If the trade deal officially goes through and I am then 32 years old, I can get the 1st WHV and once it ends I’ll be 33. In that time frame, will I still be able to get the 3rd one if I am over the age of 35?

Or does it basically mean I have to get all 3 visas applied for and worked through before I am 36?

I desperately want to go to Aus and hopefully get PR there. This country has had it I’m afraid.

Thanks 🙂

Hello

I have my first year visa accepted, and my entry date is before 10th December 2022.

I am going to struggle to make it out there before this date this year due to my current situation.

Am i able to push it back to next year, Feb/March time?

Please let me know if/how i can do this

Thanks!
James

Hi there, I’m from Ireland and looking to move to Australia on a WHV but want to take my wife and 3 kids with me , is there a different visa for familys? Cheers

I don’t think this deal is ever coming into effect

https://www.sheepcentral.com/political-turmoil-set-to-disrupt-australia-uk-fta-ratification/

Further delays expected. Not looking good .

Just a thought, but hear me out hahaaha…

Should we all write letters to the PM asking him if he would kindly sign the agreement so some of us can leave UK to go somewhere better?

I don’t blame you for wanting to leave the UK. Its an absolute mess

I am Canadian, applied for 1st year WHM at 35 (the day before I turned 36). I was granted it and 11 months has passed. I am now 37 and going to Aus in the next month (before entry expiry). Assuming I complete farm work while there, can I apply for a second visa?

Hello I’m 34 years of age, and I’m wanting to go on a working holiday visa to Australia whats the age limit I was going with a company but thry said thry are waiting for new visa to be despatched any other visas thaf I could apply for to get me out there.

The JSCOT report on the UK-Aus trade deal is due to be released tomorrow.

Once the report is out the Australian government can ratify their side of the deal. If the same rules apply as the submarine deal they don’t even need to respond to the report before ratifying.

I’m 29y/o from UK and have received my first WHV.
I’m desperate to leave UK and go out to Aus. I’m thinking of going after Christmas.
However I want to stay for the 3 years (no farm work) rather than 1 year with farm work still in place.
Is it risky to go hoping for the new change to occur at some point in my first year during 2023? I really don’t want to come back after 1 year.

Charles, let hope they don’t ratify, don’t think they will with all reports about them getting a better deal then the U.K!

Charles, let’s hope its immediately in effect. This has been dragged on for too long

https://www.just-food.com/news/australia-free-trade-deal-not-good-for-uk-says-former-minister-eustice/

Not trying to be negative, but what impact will this have? Why is a former minister coming out and saying this, and possibly derailing the whole thing? What is his intention

The JSCOT has published their report on the UK-Aus FTA

This is recommendation 2:

8.42
The Committee supports the Free Trade Agreement between Australia and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and recommends that binding treaty action be taken.

This was pretty mush inevitable but still encouraging.

And here is the bit relevant to us:

Working Holiday Maker Program Visa and Youth Mobility schemes

6.192 The Parties permit citizens aged between 18 and 35 to participate in their
respective Working Holiday Maker and Youth Mobility schemes and remain
in the country for a maximum of three years without being required to
undertake specified work during their stay. Individuals under either scheme
could apply to switch to an alternate visa route where a longer length of stay
may be granted, subject to meeting the relevant criteria.257 The AUKFTA
provides for an increase of the existing cut off age for these schemes to 35.

Nothing on date of implementation but it’s acknowledged at least.

Great, some positive signs. It’s still just a waiting game as to when the date changes.

https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7985262/mps-back-australia-uk-free-trade-deal/

This looks like very good news.

Could someone answer this for me please?

I’m 31 years old from the UK.

If the deal goes through while I am 31yrs old and I apply for my first WHV and get it, for the 2nd and 3rd WHV, do I still have to be under 35 years of age?

Basically, do I have to be under 35yrs old when applying for my 3rd WHV?

By all accounts, this deal is to be ratified by next week. Let’s hope the age changes come immediately into effect

Thanks!

The relevant parts from the article for everyone else:

“Senator Farrell said he had informed UK Secretary of State for International Trade, Kemi Badenoch, the government was in a position to have parliament pass the bill next week.”

“The agreement will be in force after Australia and the UK have confirmed with each other in writing that they have completed their respective domestic requirements.”

So Australia could ratify their side next week but we don’t know when the UK will take care of theirs. Hopefully soon. Unless otherwise agreed upon the agreement will actually enter into force one month after both sides have ratified the deal. Hopefully during that time we’ll get some answers about the age extension.

Still a waiting game it seems. Let’s hope for the best

More info here. Most of it has probably already been covered though – https://www.trademinister.gov.au/minister/don-farrell/media-release/trade-agreement-uk-moves-closer-implementation

“This morning I had an introductory call with the new UK Secretary of State for International Trade, Kemi Badenoch. I congratulated her on her role and gave her an update on the fact that were in a position to finalise our parliamentary processes next week.”

Hello, my girlfriend did a 1 year Australia visa and did not complete her farm work. Is she able to apply for another visa? I heard they are granting “do overs” due to covid/ lack of workers. Is this correct?
We are Canadian. Thank you!

Yes but when will the age changes come into effect. That’s all we are concerned about

https://www.thedcn.com.au/news/law-regulation-trade/commencement-of-australias-free-trade-deals-with-the-uk-and-india-comes-closer/

According to this article, the date for commencement of the FTA should be 01/01/2023

Some light at the end of the tunnel, hopefully!

https://www.theadvocate.com.au/story/7990513/aust-backs-free-trade-deals-with-uk-india/

Australian side done! Your move now UK!

“The bills easily passed the House of Representatives on Monday and the Senate made them law on Tuesday.

The deals need to be ratified by the respective British and Indian parliaments before they take effect. Neither nation has yet done that.”

https://journalnow.com/news/national/govt-and-politics/australia-ratifies-free-trade-deals-with-india-and-britain/article_35cb1f94-e2b2-580c-af80-fe8f9508c94d.html

So, when the deal is ratified on both ends, how long does it take for the visa age change to come into effect?

Are all parts of the deal instant after ratification or will they introduce certain things first? I get that it’s the trade part that’s the most important for the countries and the visa age limit change is probably the least of their worries.

Both countries have made it abudantly clear that they need more skilled workers and migration, so I am hoping it is changed ASAP!

I’m hoping it will come into force soon. Otherwise I’ll only be able to do one, maybe two WHV.

Same here I wanted to travel and go to Australia for Christmas next year… my 31st birthday is august next year.

Does anyone have any key dates or info on when the UK plans to ratify their end?

I just had a look and couldn’t find any news on it. It’s worth keeping in mind that this deal isn’t very popular in the UK so the government will probably be inclined to keep things quiet until it’s signed to minimise bad press.

News of the Australian side getting signed had the UK farmer’s lobbying group complaining again. So don’t be surprised if news of its finalisation comes suddenly.

Let’s hope it gets implemented soon! Thanks Charles

If the finalisation happens and the trade deal comes into affect – I’ve heard people say that certain aspects of the deal could be implemented at different times – if the deal is meant to benefit both countries greatly, then why would’nt they just do it all at once?

I’m guessing the majority of us on here are literally only waiting for the visa age change.

My mate left for Aus three weeks ago (Brisbane) on a WHV. He applied for I think 10 jobs over the course of a few days and 9 of them invited him for interviews….WOuld never get that here in the UK! Pay for jobs over there seems significantly higher, with basic jobs starting at like $20 an hour.

I simply cannot wait to go now! The only thing is, once I get my WHV, I will sell all my belongings for the extra cash but I know for a fact I won’t want to come home. I hope I can get employer sponsorship for permanent residency there. I need a new start in life and to be honest, I deserve it.

I’ve been so unhappy for the majority of my life and I’m 31 yrs old now…if I don’t get this opportunty to go, I’ve got nothing else going in my life. Still live at home, rubbish stressful job, ruined credit rating so will never be able to get a mortgage and single so cant move out and live on my own as this country is too expensive with crappy wages.

Sorry to rant about my life story but, like many on here, we may never get the chance to do this if the government takes too bloody long 🙁

I’m with you Dan. Can’t wait to go. Also still living at home and rubbish job. Need to change urgently.

I’m remaining hopeful this deal gets implemented for a start date of 1.1.23

The Guardian seems to the the work requirements won’t be removed until 2024.

“The relaxed requirements will not come into effect until at least 2024 as the deal has not yet come into force.”

https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/sep/20/fears-australian-farm-labour-woes-may-worsen-with-loss-of-uk-backpackers-under-trade-deal

What the Australian Government says about the date commencement for the new visa arrangements:

“Australia and the UK have agreed to put in place new arrangements under the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program and Youth Mobility Scheme within two years of the entry into force of the Australia-United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (Australia-UK FTA).”

So it’s confirmed that it will be within two years. That doesn’t mean it won’t happen immediately but also doesn’t mean it will. The wording from that article also gives the impression that both changes will start at the same time, which could delay things………………

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/whm-program/latest-news/arrangements-uk-passport-holders?fbclid=IwAR2ORDQ2UvEBxEqo3FLxIYvJMYxZKNNWZ2tCgYD8lvIEZKxJ0Fh7NUxJteY

That guardian article is quite old, I wouldn’t put any weight onto that (as it was before the deal was ratified)

I simply cannot wait that long if that’s the case. I need this to happen urgently :((

Just going to cross all my fingers until things are more clear

For many of us I’m sure this would be a fresh start at least…I just wish I’d made my mind up a few years ago about this and not left it too late to decide that this is actually what I want.

I keep checking for updated news every day in the hopes that we can do this sooner rather than later 🙁

https://thewest.com.au/politics/india-free-trade-gets-new-year-green-light-c-9010551

Even India has green lighted the FTA with Australia to begin in the new year

WTF is taking so long with the UK. Too busy watching the world Cup it seems

Before the deal can be ratified by the UK the
Trade (Australia and New Zealand) Bill needs to be passed. You can see what stage it is currently at in the link below:

https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152

It’s called the Australia and New Zealand Bill so it looks like the one bill is intended to cover both FTAs. They may be ratified at different times but the necessary changes to British law seem to be getting made together.

If they’re separate bills what stage is the NZ one at relative to the Australian?

It also says “The Bill is now due to have its report stage and third reading on a date to be announced.”

I can’t find an announcement of the third reading so it looks like it’s still in the report stage.

If you can find anything to the contrary I’d be very happy though. I’d like to see this done soon.

https://www.dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/not-yet-in-force/aukfta/news/jscot-supports-ukfta-legislation-passes-both-houses

I found this on the Australian govt website

https://www.miragenews.com/australian-foreign-minister-to-visit-europe-and-907079/

So the Australian foreign minister is going to the UK to ensure the UK handle their part of the deal and make sure they sign it off.

Really pathetic on the UK part.

https://www.ft.com/content/bb70437e-b565-4415-a008-0c2424c0b0de

Significant article just written about the deal. Worth a read for those interested

What’s it say? Says I have to subscribe?

Report stage for the Trade (Australia and New Zealand) Bill is December 12th.

So it is nearly finished in the House of Commons. It then has to go through the same five step process in the House of Lords and after that get royal assent.

https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152/stages

I don’t see this getting done until end of Jan unfortunately, the UK are dragging their heels and we all know they don’t like this deal. And even then, the age changes might not even come into effect. Might look at Canada instead

Not holding my breath anymore

No it’s 35

https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/indiaaus-trade-pact-in-force-from-dec-29-101669831260466.html

Not relevant but the Australia-India FTA seemed to get implemented at warp speed compared to the UK one. Visa changes and all

Report stage/ 3rd Reading of the Aus/NZ bill is the 12th of Dec. With the procurement act 3rd reading on the 13th in the House of Lords. This will enact and superseed this bill.

We might, just might. Get this done before Christmas should all be well.

Losing hope….I can’t find any info on getting a WHV in Canada for UK citizens, I end up on those visa agency things. You got any useful links for that?

Also, if anyone wants to add me on Facebook for a chat, you’re more than welcome to 🙂 I promise I’m not a weirdo

Does this mean anything?

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-63808657

Yes I am an aussie desperately trying to get the UK (crazy right)

I turn 36 in August so hence why I’m so frustrated with the delays

https://www.express.co.uk/news/politics/1704680/brexit-boost-farmers-australia-trade-deal-dairy-cheese

Anecdotal, but this article suggests the FTA will start early next year… Been hearing that for months now

Losing hope I really don’t know why you’re stressing about the UK! It’s an absolute *hitshow of a county.

I assumed you were trying to get to Australia. Honestly explore the Canada option!

Thanks Charles

I still plan to go. But cannot wait around forever for this to be enacted. So I have Canada as plan B

Bradley

I’m trying to read up on the Procurement Act and how it will enact and superseed the Aus/NZ bill. Have you got any links that would be useful? I think I’m probably looking in the wrong places. Thanks in advance.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/lord-ian-botham-visits-australia-to-boost-trade

“It’s an exciting time to host Lord Ian Botham, the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Australia. We have huge momentum with the UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement due to enter into force early next year and CPTPP negotiations progressing. If you are a British company looking to expand then come to Australia!”

I predict the deal will be ratified by the end of January and will enter into force 30 days after (end of Feb/beginning of March)

I’m 34 and already had one WHV in Australia and I leave home to start travelling South East Asia at the end of January and praying the visa changes happen before June 2023 and I can apply for my 2nd WHV while I’m travelling.

Does anyone know if I would be able to enter Australia on a tourist visa and apply for my 2nd WHV while in Australia? (Providing thebl changes have happened)

Thanks
Jonny

Jonny,

All the info about the second WHV can be found here:

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/work-holiday-417/second-working-holiday-417

75% of applications are processed in eight days or less so getting one from outside wouldn’t take very long if you were in a rush to get to Australia.

We might find it gets ratified even sooner than late January given the third reading of the Procurement Act is in a week.

Fingers crossed, Charles.

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-12-07/uk-signs-third-us-state-trade-pact-in-absence-of-a-broader-deal

UK signed a trade deal with the US

As usual, the Australian FTA was scruitined

Hi, I got delayed getting to Aus because of COVID. I’m just about to turn 32 and made it here for my first year WHV (UK citizen). It looks like I’m too old to apply for the 2nd year, is this the case? If so I won’t stress finding the right work.

Hopefully the new 35 visa kicks in and I can switch over to that one, but guess no news on how that works yet?

https://www.sbs.com.au/language/hindi/en/article/australia-to-offer-backpacker-visa-for-young-indians-within-two-years/jsz3d33z6

This is a bit worrying to be honest. The India Australia FTA is starting December 29, but the visa changes won’t be done until 2 years

This gives me no hope for the UK australia FTA, it will still be a waiting game even if the deal gets done by the end of the year.

If the work requirement wasn’t being removed at the same time it would just be changing 30 to 35 in the system like they’ve done for five countries previously.

From the response Bradely got from the British government it seems like the decision on when the age change happens is up to Australia. Australia needs more workers and people aged 30-35 are more likely to valuable skills. They lose some of the people doing the necessary work but also gain people with higher skill levels. From my point of view getting the age change done seems like a good idea. We’ll see what happens though.

As you’re an Australian citizen have you considered contacting the government and asking them if they have a timescale in mind for the visa changes once the FTA enters into force? The government works for you after all and the fact that people are asking might just get to ear of the right person.

Bradley

Thanks for the quote and I think you’re right. I’m not an expert but from what I understand the Procurement Act gives the govt the power to change certain rules so as to meet the requirements of trade agreements. It’s effectively more powerful than the Aus/NZ Bill but will also retain the changes that bill makes.

So as soon as the Procurement Act is passed the UK govt can make the changes necessary to be able to ratify the FTA. It looks like the Procurement Act still has to go through the House of Commons though and I don’t know how long that will take.

Awesome!!

Excellent news! I’m 36 in Feb 2024 so hopefully I can get 1 year (which would be wonderful)

Hopefully, like others have said we should know a bit more end of Dec / beginning of January?

I can’t remember if this was ‘in progress’ at the committee stage or the ‘report stage’…somethings changed on the page but I can’t work out what…. https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152

Jonny that is excellent! Thanks for taking the time to do that.

Who is your MP and did they give any indication of what “quite quickly” means?

Hey Jonny, that’s very encouraging. Thanks again for asking.

I also totally agree we need it in writing before we can believe it. The day the number next to British passports changes from 30 to 35 on the Australian immigration website I’ll be very happy.

https://www.canzukinternational.com/2022/12/help-us-advance-free-movement-with-the-uk-australia-trade-agreement.html

Very interesting page

Therefore, CANZUK International is calling on Australian and British residents to use our online contact form and get in touch with the Australian and British International Trade Ministers. The online form includes a pre-drafted email emphasizing the need for freer movement between the two nations under the Free Trade Agreement

https://www.canzukinternational.com/uk-australia-fta

Guys, please fill in the template here and share to anyone you know wishing to move abroad. The more the better, we need this ratified quickly

Just sent mine as well. Also added in a sob story in the hopes that makes a difference ☺️

Thanks guys

I’ve submitted it as I agree with the principle. From what I understand from reading it though the letter isn’t intended to speed up the UK-Aus FTA entering into force but to show a desire for greater freedom of movement between the two countries.

Thanks Charles, agree. At this stage willing to try anything to get clarity on the situation and speed it up, and we know know we can email the trade ministers directly now through this mechanism. Cheers

The third reading of the Procurement Bill is currently underway in the HoL as is the report stage of the Trade (Aus/NZ) Bill in the HoC. So things are moving.

Fingers crossed Charles we get some clarification this week

It’s becoming a joke how long this has taken. The Australian side got this done in a couple of weeks

This thread has been really helpful and I’ve kept up to date for over a year now – so thanks to everyone who’s posted. It’s given me hope knowing I’m not the only one waiting for this.

https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152/news

Updated today. Hopefully move to next stage soon.

Updated today:

https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152/news

Hopeful. Thanks for everyone who has posted over the year or so. I’ve kept up to date the whole time and it’s been helpful knowing I’m not alone in wanting this to go through.

The Trade (Australia and New Zealand) Bill has been passed by the House of Commons and has completed the first reading in the House of Lords.

https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152

Does parliament close for Xmas during UK? Hoping this gets done before then……

Yes losing hope, I believe it’s the 20th December to 9th Jan

Ffs

House of Commons: 21st of December to 8th of January
House of Lords: 22nd of December to 8th of January

https://whatson.parliament.uk/nonsittingperiods/

4 more working days to get this done otherwise a long wait til the new year

I’ve just found this thread and I’ve found it really useful. Fingers crossed the age limit increases in the first half of next year..

Yep.

Hence my username. This is dragging on

Hey Guys,

Big thanks to those of you posting updates and info, I’m another eagerly awaiting the age change and have been viewing this page often. In regards to the readings in the house of lords, do we know how many of those are required? The 2nd being scheduled for 9th Jan, do we think that is the final reading and final remaining stage of this process?

Thanks again to all of you, as Ellie said it’s comforting to know there are so many of us in the same position 🙂

Well, I think there’s no need to lose hope as this will definitely get done. Just not before Christmas by the looks of it. If anything now is the time to have more hope than ever before.

Posted on the 9th. Might explain why things have jumped forward a bit this week:

“Mr Farrell is also heading to London over the weekend, and hopes that come Monday he will be watching the House of Commons finally ratify the Australia-UK FTA, which has been delayed by Britain’s extended bout of political turmoil.”

https://www.afr.com/policy/economy/australia-in-six-month-sprint-for-an-eu-trade-deal-20221209-p5c4y3

Thanks Charles

There are two bills currently tabled that will allow the British Govt to ratify the FTA when one of them is passed: The Trade Bill and the Procurement Bill. The former started in the HoC the latter in the HoL. Once a bill is passed by one house it has to then be passed by the other before getting royal assent.

The Trade Bill is the furthest along as it was passed in the HoC this week and is now going through the same process in the HoL.

Right I understand now.

Let’s hope it gets through on Monday

HOL second reading is booked for 9th January

Was hoping for before Xmas! Best case we’re looking at is probably Feb at this rate! Snails pace

Yep very disappointed

The second reading of the Procurement Bill in the HoC is also set for the 9th of January. Looks like the government decided they needed a nice long holiday before they did any more work on either of these bills haha.

I’m 31 and I’m in australia just now on a working holiday visa. Could I do my 88 days and apply for my second year?

https://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/23188805.tim-farron-mp-votes-trade-deals/

Some UK ministers have voted against the Australia FTA. Wonderful…

Losing hope – in the link you shared It says only one voted against it?

I agree, it is wonderful because this has had zero impact on the FTA.

First, he’s an MP which means he’s in the House of Commons. The HoC has already passed the Aus/NZ Trade Bill. So his vote against it did nothing.

Second, the UK cannot pull out of this deal now without becoming a pariah. They will cause serious damage to their negotiating power in any deals they are currently working on and any they may want in the future. Their opposites from potential trade partners will be able to come to every negotiation able to demand very favourable terms as they will be able say that the UK has a record of pulling out of deals and can’t be trusted.

This trade deal is happening. The only thing we need to be interested in now is when.

Well explained there Charles. It’s just the when we are all eagerly waiting for nkw

I don’t want to get anybody’s hopes up but it’s worth keeping in mind that the UK and Australia don’t actually need the FTA to enter into force for them to increase the age on the WHV. The Procurement and Trade bills are required to allow trade to be carried out under the terms of the FTA but the visa age increase is an additional component of the deal that doesn’t require any new legislation. Look at the increases for Italy and Denmark in July.

Just something to think and maybe contact your local politician about.

I don’t see this getting done anytime soon based on how everything else has been handled

I don’t know what you mean by soon. But within the next few months would seem to be realistic from my understanding of things.

Need it to get done ASAP. Been waiting since December last year

Looks like the final working day of 2022 yielded no results in the UK parliament

An arduous wait lies ahead

The government also said it would be done by July 2022 but alas it wasn’t. You have to take everything they say with a grain of salt

https://asia.nikkei.com/Economy/Trade/U.K.-pushes-Indo-Pacific-trade-deals-to-next-year-as-dissent-grows

UK government asleep at the wheel

Hope everyone had a good Christmas and if you’re like me, hope it’s the last one in the country you are in. 🙂

Merry Christmas everyone.

I’ve included a link to that article. It looks like they’re getting through the the applications very fast at the moment which is good news for when the age increases.

https://www.theguardian.com/business/2022/dec/26/australias-tourism-body-wants-to-lift-working-holiday-visa-age-limit-to-50

https://www.express.co.uk/news/politics/1713930/Ian-Botham-Brexit-George-Eustice-Australia-trade-deal-economy

One positive article about the UK australia FTA

https://www.express.co.uk/news/politics/1713930/Ian-Botham-Brexit-George-Eustice-Australia-trade-deal-economy

I’m from Australia. That change of age to 50 won’t happen anytime soon (if at all). The tourism board has no voice in Australia. They cried during the harsh lockdowns here in Australia and still nothing was done. I wouldn’t get my hopes up.

Lets concentrate our efforts into the 35 age increase. That’s what’s important

I agree Jonny. I’m also optimistic it will happen soon after EIF.

An email someone (I think it was Bradley) received from the British government implied that the decision on the date of the changes was mostly up to Australia. Given how desperate they are for workers at the moment I’m expecting it to work in our favour.

I called the Australian immigration office yesterday. They couldn’t tell me much but did say that the visa changes will happen within two years of December 2021. I’m taking that as another good sign.

I got through to someone immediately. Should anyone else wish to call them to show more people are interested their numbers are:

In Australia
Phone: 131 881 ​​
Outside Australia
Phone: +61 2 6196 0196​

I think I used extensions 1 then 3.
According to the website you can contact them “Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm your local time”. So anyone in the UK shouldn’t need to worry about time differences.

Everything is still “if” and “maybe”. This is really becoming farcical

I’ve just trawled through all the bills currently tabled in the House of Lords and the first one they will be working on when they return from their holiday is the Trade Bill. I’m taking this as another positive sign. If there are no amendments made to the bill in the HoL it could go through much quicker than it did in the HoC.

Where I did my research:
https://bills.parliament.uk/

It’s also worth noting that some bills can go from Second Reading in the HoL to Royal Assent in less than a week. So that’s something else to remain optimistic about.

I have a proposal for everyone:

The Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs is Andrew Giles. I propose that we all contact him asking something along the lines of:

“How long after the the UK-Australia FTA enters into force will the age increase to 35 for the Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) be made for British citizens?”

Maybe we should also mention that there are a lot of us keen to come and work in Australia. Given what Bradley learned from the British Government – that the visa changes will be at Australia’s discretion – Andrew Giles should have the most accurate information. It will also be good for him to realise that there are people out there who want these changes to happen ASAP. Never underestimate the power of a noisy minority!

So there you go. Tweet him, email him, call him and ask your friends and family to do the same. You never know, a little bit of effort on our part might make all the difference and have us all where we want to be in a month or two.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/andrewjgiles
Email: andrew.giles.mp@aph.gov.au
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndrewGilesScullin
Electoral Office Telephone: +61 (03) 9497 9783
Parliament Office Telephone: +61 (02) 6277 7770

Hey guys, does anyone know if on the new visas there is the same rule of only working for one employer for a maximum of 6 months? Or does this change?

So, as long as there’s no ammendments to things we could be looking at very early 2023 for the visa changes?

Not trying to get my hopes up but do you guys think things kind of looking promising?

Fingers crossed that’s what happens. I do think the next couple of months are going to be big for finding out more details and hopefully we get the good news we’re all hoping for.

Looking at what we know, I think the trade deal with enter into force by March 2023 but don’t quote me on this.

I agree with Jonny. I think EIF will be sometime between January 9th and the end of March. Some non-emergency bills have gone from second reading in the HoL to Royal Assent on the same day so you never know.

https://www.ft.com/content/d81f6e4c-7716-44c2-a745-2b7a74089ede

UK missed its deadline to close all FTA’s in 2022

I’m just clinging on to hope now, as it’s all I’ve got.

I live with parents at 31 years old, I work a dead end job with no qualifications. Can’t afford to move out and live on my own on just over minimum wage. Credit rating absolutely ruined so will never get a mortgage in my lifetime.

My goal now is to get a WHV (hopefully 3) and pray, and I mean pray I can get sponsorship or the likes to get permanent residency there.

I hate my life at the moment and although Australia might not be for me, I’ll always be wondering what if should I choose not to at least try.

Australia is a great place to live. Weather, pay, lifestyle is amazing all year round

It’s very frustrating we have had to wait this long with no clear information of deadline in sight.

Just a sea change, I have lived here in Australia my whole life and am bored now. Other than that Australia in my opinion is a much better place to live, the pay is much higher, weather is better etc

I tried to make a bigger post about this but it’s still awaiting moderation for some reason:

The Australian Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs is Andrew Giles. I suggest we all contact him regarding when the age change will happen. The more people he hears from the more it will be in his mind.

It’s the Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417) we’re asking about for anyone unsure.

https://www.andrewgiles.com.au/contact/

He is also on Twitter

Thanks Charles. I have sent an email to him also.

https://news.sky.com/story/amp/australia-reviews-visa-system-as-it-grapples-with-worker-shortage-after-strict-covid-rules-12777750

Review published February!! Let’s get some movement by then!

My best friend went to Australia on 6th November 22, took 2 weeks holiday. In the meantime he applied for 9 jobs I think and had interview offers for 8 of them before taking the one he wanted within a few days.

He’s on really good money.

He just says it’s completely different over there compared to the UK.

I have done my 1st working holiday in Australia already and getting a job was so easy!

This is great news to hear work is available and I can’t wait to get there! I’m staying positive with the visas and hopefully by next month we will know what’s happening!

Losing Hope: I hope so too! 🙂

Jonny: Are you from the UK? How did you find Australia, is it as nice as people say? Also, my friend is a warehouse supervisor and on about $70k, now I’m a supervisor in a supermarket and on nowhere near aS much as that 🙁

Australia pays exceedingly well

I don’t know too many people here who are poor or broke. Everyone has a very high standard of living

This is all sounding very positive!

Just a reminder to contact Andrew Giles and ask him when the age change will happen for anyone who hasn’t already. He should be back in the office today.

Thanks to everyone who already has. Never underestimate the power of a noisy minority to make a change!

https://www.andrewgiles.com.au/contact/

This is all sounding very positive!

Just a reminder to contact Andrew Giles and ask him when the age change will happen for anyone who hasn’t already. He should be back in the office today.

Thanks to everyone who already has. Never underestimate the power of a noisy minority to make a change!

A link to his contact details can be found in my previous post.

Still haven’t received any response yet from the immigration minister.

Jonny, that’s horrible news if true.

Looks like I need to be making alternative arrangements

Also, what Facebook page are you looking at with such information?

There was a commentator on here before who contacted a UK minister and said that once the deal entered into force the visa age changes would happen quickly. There’s so much misinformation with this, it’s so hard to plan your life. This is become a joke.

No worries, Jonny

We should get a clearer picture by the end of January as to what will happen.

Barring anything totally unexpected the FTA will enter into force in Q1 2023. The only step remaining is for the Trade Bill to get passed by the House of Lords and get Royal Assent. Given the time other bills have taken from second reading to Royal Assent this could be anytime between mid-January and mid-March. Even if it were to take as long as the slowest bills passed last year (which I think is unlikely) it would still be passed in Q2. I don’t think the issue is when the FTA goes through but when the governments decide to implement the visa changes.

Jonny, was that email from the Dept of Foreign Affairs sent recently?

Yeah I agree, the big question is when does both governments want to actually implement the visa changes.

I’m hoping behind closed doors they have already decided they will make the changes quick.

Yeah, looking at the screenshot the email was sent a couple of days ago. :/

Extremely disappointing news if true.

Looks like I’ll have to apply for the Ireland or Canada WHV in the next couple of weeks.

Surely the fta for 2025 is more to do with the deal with the meat trade as that’s gonna take a while to come into affect and plan ?

Wouldn’t of thought they would change the 35 cap within the year as they’ve done that with other countries so can’t see that being an issue.

The 3 years without farm work work is the issue I’m worrying about as I will have to farm for 3 months then hope deal comes in time for the 3rd year.

Everything’s hearsay until it official so let’s hope we get the news in a week or two.

First comments for this age change were July 2020. It is now Jan 2023 and this still hasn’t been changed yet. I think everyone needs to plan for the eventuality that this won’t come into effect until 2025. It’s becoming a farce.

I always think of the worst so anything better is a bonus – I am trying to stay hopeful that the age change will come into effect soon. Like you say, it was pretty much first discussed in 2020 so they may think to themselves that it’s been long enough now so lets just change it now.

Thinking of changing my name to ‘Clinging on to hope’ lol.

Always have a plan b and c

https://www.canzukinternational.com/2023/01/australia-to-raise-age-limit-for-working-visas.html

Nothing helpful but they want to raise the age to 50

Hi everyone,

I have emailed my Local MP again to ask for some kind of inside information haha.

The last time I emailed him he advised once the FTA was in force we would be able to go by the new visa rules and his understanding was the changes would be made straight away, however what we are reading online is conflicted what he said.

I have asked the direct question of why would either government delay making the changes happen straight away.

Also, I have asked if there is an specific dates being talked about regarding when they want to make the changes.

Let’s see what comes back.

Unfortunately, being a UK citizen, I can only find that Australia will be the only country I could get a WHV (once the age change happens) in.

According to a table of visa ages, all other countries require you to be 30 or under, if you are UK citizen that is.

Johnny,

Great idea. Thanks. Between your local MP and the Aussie Minister for Immigration we will hopefully get some clarification. If your MP doesn’t know for sure maybe he can direct you to someone who might or ask them himself.

They both should be back at work on Monday.

Has this guy written his blog incorrectly? It says in the first part that the age for UK citizens has already gone up!? This is wrong surely?

https://www.canzukinternational.com/2023/01/australia-to-raise-age-limit-for-working-visas.html

Yes, it’s wrong. Newspapers and blogs have been incorrectly reporting this for more than a year. It’s frustrating as it takes a couple of minutes to go to the link below and confirm it.

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/work-holiday-417/first-working-holiday-417#Eligibility

Hi,

I completed a 1-year 417 WHV back in 2013 then left Australia and only returned as a tourist.

I am 33 now and hoping to apply again when the age limit changes.

Does anyone know if having already had a WHV in the past affects applying for 2nd under the new regulations proposed?

Thanks in advance if anyone knows.

Well, I thought I’d missed something there…I thought it had gone through and was confirmed. I almost cried thinking I could apply for my visa last night lol

We can all keep a close eye on the process of the trade bill going through the house of lords and loyal accent on this link.

The 2nd reading stage is tomorrow so fingers crossed it quickly moves onto the next stage after tomorrow. 🙂

https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152

Hi,

Previously left a comment but I can’t see it now, apologies if it comes up twice.

I stayed in Australia on a 1-year WHV back in 2013. I am 33 now and plan to apply again when the age limit changes.

Does anyone know if having previously held a WHV will have an affect on my application under the newly proposed regulations?

Thanks in advance.

Marc

https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/630917/sponsors/new?token=sdkdcecUVLZAGYsMR5kU

I have created this petition for the changes to happen on EIF. Anyone in the UK needs to sign it so we can be heard!!

Just done it for you Jonny 🙂

I’ll sign it when you get it up

At this stage I’m not putting too much mental energy anymore into this visa situation, it’s better to just have no expectations and move on with my life as I’ve invested so much time into it for the last couple years.

Great idea Jonny. I’ll be signing and asking all my friends and family to do the same. When do we need to start?

Will you be posting it one the Facebook page where you saw the foreign affairs email too?

Definitely worth a shot!

Cool, I’ll wait to hear from you when I can sign.

The second reading in the HoL is today. Let’s hope they have no amendments.

What’s the odds by the end of today the reading never happens? Based on how everything has been handled by the UK government, its possible

Yeah I have my fingers crossed they schedule the committee stage asap!

Losing hope – it’s definitely happening as it’s on the house of lords timetable for today. 🙂

https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152

Watched part of the live feed today while they was going back and forth they mentioned that the committee stage and 3rd reading would be done over the next few weeks

Why do things in the UK take so long? The Australian side of the deal was ratified over 2 weeks.

Yawn.

The Australian side got handled in 2 weeks. UK government dropping the ball as usual.

Losing hope, while I was watching they kept on mentioning how Australia have had a such a good deal and the U.K. haven’t and how the meat market especially is going to hurt local farmers and carbon footprint a lot of them wasn’t happy. So I think this is why it’s took so long and even watching the live feed could tell they was dragging their feet on it.

You can watch it via Twitter or Facebook page, but again didn’t really mention anything mainly the meat produce. But like I said they’re looking to get it sorted in the next few weeks. It seems. One mentioned that they hope to get 2/3 of the deals done in the first quarter of the deal. (USA,China,Australia/New Zealand)

Australia definitely did not get it done in two weeks.

The bill was first tabled in February 2022 in Australia and didn’t get passed until November 16. It took the Australian JSCOT two and a half months alone to process it. The first reading of the bill in the UK was May 2022.

Both governments have taken their time with this.

Committee stage is on 23rd January 🙂 looks to be moving a lot fast than it did in the HoC

Hopefully it will move quickly onto the next stages after that…and we will FINALLY get an answer….hopefully!

This is all looking good. Committee stage is coming much faster than average for non-emergency bills.

With regard to us getting an answer:

I called the office of Andrew Giles (the Immigration Minister) today. The person that answered wasn’t able to give me any information other than what is already online. When I asked if he is able to make any decisions regarding when the age change happens they responded “I’m not able to answer that”.

Now is the time to start making some noise. If they get more calls regarding the age change for Brits it should get pushed up the chain. So if you can I’d encourage everybody to give the office a call and ask when it will happen. The previous immigration minister was first to announce the age change for Italians and Danes so this is where the announcement regarding ours should come from.

Andrew Giles Office: +61 (03) 9497 9783

10pm UK is 9am in Melbourne where his office is located.

2 weeks after a reading is considered “much faster”?

There are still multiple stages remaining until final sign off.

Committee Stage can last up to a week and then Report Stage occurs once again, 2 weeks after that! I think a reasonable time frame would be for this bill to be done by end of Feb/ early March best case scenario.

Will have to wait and see though however, as this thing has taken its time!!

I think as we’ve been waiting so long for this, even a few weeks is seen as a long time.

I’m optimistic we will be hearing some good news by March. Still a bit of time away yet but at least it’s getting somewhere now In my opinion.

An ideal outcome would be they flick the visa switch to 35 at 01/03/23. But seeing as how this has been handled and all the waiting and misinformation, it would be just my luck that its 2025 instead.

This might be good news for us. It looks like the new Australia/India visa changes are happening around March time however, until now they also said it would be within 2 years.

If they are changing it that fast from EIF hopefully it will be the same for us.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/india-uk-sign-and-exchange-letters-for-young-professionals-scheme/article66357816.ece

My petition has been published guys!

You need to be a UK Citizen to sign so if we can all share the link below and push to get as many signed as possible! 🙂

https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/630917

Just this minute signed it Johnny

Thanks Jonny, appreciate you doing this. Unfortunately I’m in Australia and cannot sign, but hoping it gathers momentum.

Cheers

I’ve viewed the petition on the map and noticed there are a few signatures near me. Gwent, Ogmore and Caerphilly. I’m in the Vale of Glamorgan. Just wondered if it’s anyone on here? Would be good to connect.

I hate to bring down any optimism within this group but I also ended up contacting the Australian department of foreign affairs and trade and they also confirmed in writing that the age changes would happen sometime between Q3 2023 and Q1 2025.

So it appears it is not as simple as just ‘changing the ages over to 35’

=/

Can you copy and paste the email here? It would be interesting to see the wording.

With regard to the age change: it’s just changing the number from 30 to 35 in the system at the same time as the partner country. It’s been done five times already. The likely cause of the delay is the removal of the specified work requirement as there was discussion in the Australian government during Q1-Q2 2022 about the need to research its potential impact before implementation.

Dear _______

Thank you for your correspondence of 3 January 2023 to the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship,
and Multicultural Affairs, the Hon Andrew Giles MP, concerning the implementation of the
changes to the Australia’s Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa under the Australia-United
Kingdom Free Trade Agreement (A-UKFTA). Your enquiry was referred to the Department of
Foreign Affairs and Trade for response.

The A-UKFTA will enter into force (EIF) after the completion of domestic legal and parliamentary
processes by both Australia and the United Kingdom (UK). Australia passed the necessary
legislation in November 2022. The timing for passing legislation in the UK is dependent on the UK
Parliament and we hope this will occur as early as possibly in 2023.

Once both Australia and the UK have completed their internal processes, we (Australia and the
UK) then exchange notifications and the A-UKFTA will then EIF 30 days later (or another mutually
agreed date).

The changes to WHM visa will commence within two years of EIF. Therefore, we expect that the
changes will be in place ona date between Q3 2023 and Q1 2025. For further information on the
changes to the WHM, please visit the Department of Home Affairs website:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/whm-program/latest-news/arrangements-uk-

passport-holders.
| trust this information is of assistance.

Yours sincerely
Edwina Stevens

Assistant Secretary, FTA Services Branch
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

Again seems like a generic reply and doesn’t really state if it will or not. Best thing is just waiting till it’s finalised. I can’t see why they wouldn’t change the age range as they need more people.

It does seem like a generic reply. Saying something without saying anything really.

Before anyone panics though; Q3 2023 is June this year. Four and a half months away and the same amount of time as from the start of September until now.

EIF will most likely be very late Q1 or early Q2 2023 so changing the age three months after EIF probably seems pretty quick to both governments.

Most importantly, I find this quite revealing; “we expect that the changes will be in place ona date between Q3 2023 and Q1 2025″. It’s their expectation, they didn’t say”It will happen between these dates”. So seems like they don’t have any concrete info yet either. Just like the Danish and Italian changes this could come out of the blue.

I really hope it’s not in 2 years. Not sure what other country I could go to at this age

Dan, you don’t just have to hope. You can contact your local MP to ask when it will change and express your desire for it be immediate. You can also contact the UK’s immigration minister.

The petition is a great but it requires 100,000 signatures before all the MPs become aware of it. You can make one aware of the situation this week. I don’t live in the UK but have asked my family to contact theirs on my behalf.

I will contact my local MP tomorrow.

Been looking online to see if anyone is sponsoring jobs….I’m desperate but don’t know how it all works so gave up haha.

Great! I look forward to hearing what they say.

Sponsorship is a bit of a nightmare. Not impossible if you have a degree or trade but the easiest route is by going in on the WHV and then getting sponsored by a company in Australia (normally one you’ve already been working for). From what I understand at least.

I have a degree and over 10 years of experience in finance, and I’m still finding it near impossible for any employer to sponsor me on a tier 2 visa in the UK.

https://www.beefcentral.com/news/ag-minister-flys-out-in-push-to-finalise-trade-deals/

Australian minister flying out to hurry the deal along…

UK taking their sweet f’n time

The deal will be done pretty soon and the UK’s bill passing process is not something we can have any impact on at this time.

From now on I’m going to be focusing my energy on trying to get the age change done ASAP as that’s something we might be able to change .

I’m sure this has been mentioned before, but what would be the reason once the deal is ratified/in place etc they wont just change the visa age limit there and then?

There’s myriad reasons they wouldn’t immediately change the age; not feeling any need to rush or governments/civil services just moving slowly is a good example.

I can only think of one reason where they might be in a position where they couldn’t immediately change it though: During the discussion around the FTA in Australia it was mentioned that the removal of specified work should be investigated to establish its impact before implementing it. However, there are two things I’m not clear on:

1. Whether this is binding and must be carried out or is just a recommendation.
2. Whether the age change and removal of specified work are coupled and must be changed at the same time or can be done separately.

So there’s potential for delays coming from the Australian side but I’m not 100% certain. There’s probably someone on here better informed on this aspect of the deal than me so hopefully they can fill in the blanks.

https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/immigration/uk-india-young-professionals-scheme-no-sponsor-no-job-necessary-for-two-year-stay-9869921.html

Seems like other countries agreements making progress except the Australia-UK agreement

That isn’t true.

The Second Reading took place on the 9th of January and the Committee Stage is set for the 23rd of January. Both the House of Commons and House of Lords have carried out every stage of the bill on the day it was scheduled so far.

https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152

https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/watt-flies-to-uk-to-push-free-trade-deal-over-the-line-20230118-p5cdno

Agriculture Minister Murray Watt has jetted to London as part of a government push to inject a sense of urgency into Britain’s ponderous passage of the Australia-UK free trade agreement.

That just says that progress is slow not that progress isn’t happening. Remember that “slow” is subjective, it’s slow for us and the Australian government (now that they’ve passed their side) because we want it ASAP. Keep in mind too that the UK government has so far only taken eight months since starting proceedings on this bill, Australia took nine.

It’s unrealistic to expect there to be any announcements in between stages. This is because between stages no work is being done on the bill or the what is isn’t ready for release. You can keep up to date with the process in the link in my previous post.

For anyone who may be getting concerned by negative posts:

The UK government are working on passing the bill needed to bring the FTA into force. There are a total of five stages left until the bill is passed and some of the stages often happen on the same day. The next stage is scheduled for the 23rd of this month.

I’m literally leaving the UK on Sunday to start backpacking through South East Asia for several months so I’m hoping we get some news while I’m there otherwise I’ll be getting a tourist visa and just visiting Australia..

Good luck Jonny!

Asia is an amazing place and you’ll have a great time!

Fingers crossed everything works out!

Cheers Bradley! I’ll keep in contact on here while I’m away as I will be keeping an eye on any updates!

Let’s all hope for some good news by March when the FTA comes into force

Best of luck Jonny. Have a great time and thanks again for setting up the petition.

Have a good time Jonny, I will be doing south east Asia for 3 months and will love some recommendations. Have a good time!

https://www.sheepcentral.com/australian-shearing-contractors-wait-for-uk-visa-rule-changes/

Pretty good article, we aren’t just the only ones waiting for the visa changes with keenness

‘Ms Hiri said she knew of UK shearers and shedhands who wanted to come to Australia but could not because they were older than 30 years.

“There are a few of them that want to come over, but can’t, because of their age and they’re unsure how to apply for a visa.”

I have upmost faith in the Australian minister and him pressuring the UK government to get this through urgently. Its dragged on for far too long

Or if they are concerned about the impact it may have on the farming side of by removing the farm work, why not lower the amount of farm work needed.

If there are so many of us wanting to go then it wouldn’t be that bad in my opinion haha

I’m in a similar situation as Jonny.

Already completed my first year, without doing Farm Work.

Me and my partner spent 9 months in North Queensland in Hospo and would have qualified for second year under these current conditions!

We would love to go back to the place we worked and complete the 88 days but cannot, and we would stay longer we had such a great time!

https://www.wionews.com/world/more-student-visas-not-part-of-india-fta-says-uk-trade-secretary-kemi-badenoch-554833

Brief mention of the visa here

https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2023/january-2023/lords-considers-trade-australia-and-new-zealand-bill/

Today’s proceedings

Lee, Jonny and Bradley

This is what I’ve found re the removal of specified work:

“The UK and Australia have agreed commitments that will result in unprecedented changes to existing Youth Mobility Schemes. These changes include making them available to nationals no older than 35 for a total stay of up to three years, without having to undertake specified work including regional work, for example on a farm. The change will be introduced within two years after entry into force to monitor any impact on the agriculture sector and ensure alternative workforce opportunities are in place.”

I find the wording pretty confusing. Are they going to introduce the changes and then monitor it? Or wait to introduce the changes and monitor things in the meantime? Also they refer to the “changes” – age and specified work – and then “change” – specified work only. So are they going to be made separately or together?

https://www.dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/negotiations/aukfta/australia-uk-free-trade-agreement-negotiations-frequently-asked-questions-august-2022

https://www.canzukinternational.com/2023/01/uk-house-of-lords-begin-detailed-check-of-australia-new-zealand-bill.html

Update

Thanks again for the update! It again it seems like they dangle the carrot stick in front of you but not telling you exactly when or what exactly is happening, I don’t think they even know until the bill has been completed, but I guess it’s got to come from Australia also.

Anyone know when they next stage will be completed or Scheduled for ?

Think it’s also true once it’s complete we have to wait a month also after that ?

The date for the report stage hasn’t been set yet but expect it to be announced in the next few days. The report stage and third reading normally happen on the same day so there’s just that, a day bouncing between HoC and HoL for the amendments to be approved and then royal assent.

The FTA states that it will enter into force one month after both sides have made the necessary changes to their laws unless otherwise agreed upon. So they could agree that it will EIF the day after royal assent, we just don’t know yet. I would assume it will be a month after though and be pleasantly surprised if not haha.

Committee Stage can last up to a week in HOL.

So don’t expect any update until that unfortunately.

Some Labour Lord (shock) has come with a load of amendments to the bill, so have to see how it plays out.

I had the amendment count (including joint amendments) at Labour 28, Lib Dems 7, Tories 3.

A lot of the Labour lord’s amendments are impact assessments that take place after EIF, others were small changes to wording. The impact assessments relate to things like climate change, labour rights and the NHS.

For example:
“Within one year of the passing of this Act, the Secretary of State must publish—
(a) a review of the lessons learned from the negotiation of the procurement
Chapters”

I was surprised the Tory Lords didn’t want investigation into the impact on British farmers. They must have been too busy selling faulty PPE or something……………….

Fingers crossed it doesn’t hold up play too much, as we know HOL can play funny buggers sometimes!

Yeah, hopefully this stage will go quickly.

Taking the opportunity to make these amendments makes sense if I’m being honest. The FTA might benefit me personally but there’s not a lot of good evidence that it will benefit the majority of British people. Wanting assessments of it’s impact that can inform future trade deals seems reasonable.

These amendments should have been put in place in the HOC.

People in the HOL have agendas and know they can stall things. These “assessments” are just one way of doing that.

They know as soon as this deal is in place Brexit is complete and there will be no going back. Some people in some quarters don’t want that.

Committee stage complete!!

Hopefully report stage date soon!

From the NZ immigration site:

“Both sides are committed to the improved scheme being in place no later than 2024.”

https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/media-centre/news-notifications/the-united-kingdom-and-new-zealand-have-agreed-to-enhance-their-existing-youth-mobility-scheme-and-working-holiday-scheme

So does this mean both age range and no farming for 3 years before the end of the year ?

Lee

There’s no mention of specified work just that you can currently only work for one year but that will be extended to three under the new scheme.

https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/united-kingdom-working-holiday-visa

All quiet on the progress of the FTA since the 23rd. Nothing I can find anywhere

As Jonny said it could take up to two weeks so I’d wait till end of next week.

There generally aren’t announcements between one stage and the next. They carry out a stage and then there is silence until the date of the next is announced. Anything relevant to the bill itself won’t be reported until the stage is complete.

For anyone interested in New Zealand:

They passed their United Kingdom Free Trade Agreement Legislation Bill in mid-November 2022 so the UK-NZ trade deal should enter into force within a month of the UK passing the Trade Bill too.

Looks like we’re going to have double the visa options!

https://www.parliament.nz/en/pb/bills-and-laws/bills-proposed-laws/document/BILL_125280/united-kingdom-free-trade-agreement-legislation-bill

Thanks for the advice but it looks like NZ has a labour shortage too.

https://www.laprensalatina.com/new-zealand-seeks-out-over-75000-foreign-workers-to-bridge-labor-shortage/

I am in the same boat waiting for the age to increase. I see NZ will be “no later than 2024” – does anyone know if you’ve already had a year visa for NZ then you will be able to go back for the remaining 2? I know Aus are implementing this but can’t see it anywhere for NZ. Just trying to get options.

Here’s a quote from one of the members of HoL from the Committee Stage on Jan 23rd:

“We can see the timing a little more readily now: all being well, we should complete the passage of this Bill and I hope it might reach Royal Assent if not by the end of February then certainly very early in March.”

This obviously isn’t a guarantee but might give some idea of what to expect.

https://hansard.parliament.uk/lords/2023-01-23/debates/827759EE-8659-4204-BB1A-FA1618AF7B5F/Trade(AustraliaAndNewZealand)Bill

Wow…

It’s a constant guessing game as to what the UK government will do

Lots of ‘ifs’ and no concrete dates. Same as what the last 2 years have served up since the announcement of this age change

I had to leave NZ after a month in 2020 so I hope they will me apply again for the remaining 2 years if their changes come into force before Australias.

There isn’t really a TL:DR version I’m afraid. But it was said during a discussion about an amendment. Best thing is to Ctrl+F part of it if you want more context. It was fairly early on in the meeting.

Charles, the paragraph after the one you quoted says July/August/September:

The Procurement Bill in the other place still has a substantial amount of work to be done, and doubtless it will return here with amendments. That being the case, I suspect it would be rash to assume that it would pass before late May at the earliest, especially since the Session is to run longer. The Procurement Bill brings its provisions into force two months after the Bill itself is enacted, so in my view we could be in July at the earliest, and maybe in August or September, before the relevant provisions and the repeal take effect.

There hasn’t been official confirmation from the UK Parliament regarding the following (at least none I’ve found) but here is some encouraging quotes from the Aussie agriculture minister:

“I met with the House of Lords committee that was considering the legislation that underpins the UK Free Trade Agreement while I was in London.”

“And since I’ve returned that committee has actually passed and recommended the support of the legislation without amendments.”

“So it’s through the committee stage. It now has to go back to the House of Lords for its third reading.”

https://www.beefcentral.com/trade/watt-reports-positive-progress-on-uk-fta/

So does this mean there were no ammendments our side?

If so, does that mean the consideration of ammendments phase will be tricked off immediately once it reaches that stage?

Or have I got the wrong end of the stick completely lol?

Dan

If what was said is true then yes and if not; consideration of amendments normally only takes a day anyway. Report stage and 3rd reading are usually on the same day but in some cases report stage can go for a few days. A lack of amendments should keep it short though.

I’d expect a date to be set for the report stage this week. Let’s see what happens 🙂

Hi guys, I have been following this forum for quite a while hoping to gather some insight into when the visa age will be lifted. I am 32 years old and live in Sydney, but really want to move to London with my friend who already lives there (she has dual citizenship). It feels a little hopeless just waiting around for this age thing to take place. I am aware other countries like France and Ireland already have this visa age in place, but I don’t want to live somewhere that I don’t know anybody.
Does anyone know if theres any other possible visa I could apply for in order to live and work in the UK. From what I can see, it is very difficult to work over there unless you have prior work lined up.
Thanks in advance!

Steph

Still radio silence from the UK government and media on this FTA.

Maybe it has been put on the back burner, again.

I dunno, I like to think that seeing as how quickly its moved through the different stages we are going to be pleasantly surprised. I think all of a sudden its going to pass and come into force sooner than we expect.

Or am I just being too optimistic ?

Hope is the only thing I’m holding on to at the moment. My mate whose in Brisbane said its a shame I cant go now as he has a job opening where he works. Seeing as he’s in charge of hiring, I could just walk straight into it.

You’re right to be optimistic Dan; the Trade Bill is very close to being passed. The HoL acknowledged that even with the Procurement Bill superseding it the Trade Bill is still needed to allow the FTA to start as soon as possible.

A big issue with this has been that Australia took sooooo long to take care of their side. As the FTA overwhelmingly benefits the Australian economy the onus was on them to bring the necessary laws into force and they just dropped the ball over and over. The old government holding elections before their JSCOT could publish its report, the new government not forming a new JSCOT for TWO MONTHS after coming into power then immediately going on holiday and two months later shutting down again during a JSCOT sitting period are all examples.

If you look at the UK parliament timings they started work on the Trade Bill shortly after Australia and then just paused it until Australia had finished mucking around. There was just no incentive for the UK to rush as their counterparts weren’t in a hurry to facilitate billions of additional trade for themselves.

None of this really matters now though. It’s very close to getting passed and we’ll hopefully have more info about visas soon 🙂

Since you know so much, what does your crystal ball tell you about when your government is going to approve this deal?

Hi everyone,

I’ve been following this page for a while, thanks for all the updates!

Looks like the report stage has now been scheduled for 14th March

14th March? Are these bastards taking the piss?

Clearly in no rush for whatever reason.

Charles will still defend his beloved UK government and that they are working diligently to pass the bill XD

Hahaha ok.

I understand that you are feeling apathetic about this situation and that the reality of it is not meeting your expectations but getting personal is counterproductive. It’s probably a good idea to stop. Not for my sake but because it might deter someone else in our position with a genuine question or useful information from posting which would mean we all miss out.

We all want the same thing. I hope we get good news and you feel better about all of this soon 🙂

What happened to it coming into force in quarter one 🙁 oh well, hopefully it is passed by the summer!

Losing hope it’s more reason why I want to leave the U.K. because of the government!, Charles has helped this group/forum massively with information just like everyone else. And everything he’s said has been true and fair. But to put your frustration with a comment like that won’t make things quicker or better.

This is not benefiting any of us. But things we have to accept as it’s out of our hands.

Thanks Lee. You and me both haha. For anyone looking for a reason to be optimistic:

The terms of the FTA are that it will enter into force one month after both sides have implemented the necessary laws unless a different date is otherwise agreed upon.

Like Emma I was also under the impression the UK govt had committed to EIF in Q1 2023 (although I don’t have a source to back that up). So it’s still possible it could start in Q1 if both governments agree to an earlier start date.

Fingers crossed Charles. The Australian PM said in November 2022 that a trade agreement with the UK will be settled in the first quarter of 2023. This was in an article on Bloomberg, so hopefully an earlier date is agreed but both governments.

I’m still confused on this. The EIF part, if it enters in to force at the end of March say, does that mean all parts of the deal become effective/law? or can certain bits (visa age) come into effect at any stage after?

Dan

The Trade Bill is pretty much focused on creating the laws necessary for free trade. Once it’s passed FTA will enter into force and then trade etc as lined out in the deal will be able to start. The visa changes are (probably) not one of the things that will change immediately.

The interesting thing is that neither government needs to change any laws for the visa changes to happen. They could do it now if they wanted to they just happen to have agreed to do so after EIF of the FTA. So it’s not an issue of laws or needing the trade bill, they’ll just do it when they want.

So the short answer is probably no, the visa changes won’t happen on EIF.

I wish they would just announce a date for it, instead of leaving us all to guess and wait.

I agree! Wish they’d just get on with it so I can quit my job and get out there

I’m checking this every week at the moment for updates! Thanks guys for all the info.
I’m 33 this June so have time on my hands but ideally i want to go this year and get at least 2 years out there. Sick of the UK – place has gone so off the boil

I’m aiming for permanent residency at some stage but unsure of how to obtain it.
I keep reading different bits of information but as an unskilled worker, I don’t even know if this would be an option

https://www.londonworld.com/read-this/australia-offers-skilled-uk-workers-jobs-to-emigrate-full-list-of-jobs-including-nurses-and-mechanics-4029938

Good article on the positives of living in Australia

Hi, any advice on how to get a PR visa ? Doubt the age will be increased in time for me now and desperate to go before Jan.

Been a month since the last hearing

You guys must have a lot more faith and patience in the UK government than I..

😉

Think it was reported that the 3rd reading ? Was set for around March 13th ? So doubt we will hear much till mid/late March.

The Committee Stage of the Procurement Bill is finished according to its page. Still waiting for a Report Stage date though.

The Australian Ag minister said there were no amendments to the Trade Bill but it would appear there were so it will have to go back to HoC for a day or so after HoL finish with it.

https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152/news

What could the amendments be to the trade bill ?

Hi, I`m thinking to apply to the Working Holiday VISA to Australia, I`m Italian and I have 31 years old, but I`m married and my husband is Argentinian, also 31. Is it possible to apply and go together?

Thank you !!!

So, how’s everyone’s level of optimism that this deal is getting done before June? Or done at all?

Seems it’s been swept under the rug by the UK government

To anyone who may be confused by this:

It hasn’t been “swept under the rug”, that’s not how bills work haha. The date of the next stage of the Trade Bill is March 14th.

It’s sitting on top of the rug in a queue with other bills.

https://www.dailystar.co.uk/travel/travel-news/more-50000-brits-sign-up-29311226?int_source=amp_continue_reading&int_medium=amp&int_campaign=continue_reading_button#amp-readmore-target

50k brits plan to flee dreary England

I just hope it gets done by the end of the year! Summer would be a bonus

Well, when they do decide to change the age for the visas, I bet loads will apply and we’ll have an even longer wait on applications.

I think the approval process is normally pretty quick, I’ve heard of some people even get their Aus WHV approved within 24 hours. I waited a week for my NZ one.

Good to know!

However, what’s baffling me is that apparently they don’t have to wait for this trade bill to pass to increase the visa age limits, they can up it at any time.

Just wonder why they won’t do it now or should I say, haven’t already upped it?

This isn’t a piece of journalism, it’s advertiser content for the UK Government:

“Separately to the deal, the UK and Australia have signed a memorandum of understanding which will soon enable Britons aged 18 to 35 to travel and work in Australia for up to three years”

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/exporting-from-uk/australia-trade-agreement/

I agree Dan, I don’t understand why they haven’t already increased it. My friend is over there just now and said they are crying out for people/jobs so surely this would be a quick and easy solution for that!

What cities are you all planning on moving to (if this deal ever gets done) I’ve been seeing the rental market is crazy in Aus but still desperate to go.

Mitch – I’m planning on going to Brisbane as that’s where my friend is. He will be able to help me get things set up etc. But in all honesty, I don’t care where I end up, as long as it’s Australia…I could be in a tent on the streets for all I care haha.

I’m happy to go to a hostel or even share a house with other people. I’ve been on a rental page that specialises mostly in rentals for backpackers, if I remember what the site is then I will share it here.

There are some really nice rentals, and I’m talking houses not apartments or flats etc. I would like to rent a house with other people like me who have travelled from afar – I can picture it now…4 of us sat out on the porch sharing stories and chatting about how great Australia is.

Hi, How long did it take for the age increase to 35 for countries like Italy, Ireland, Canada etc after both governments signed legislations ?

Emma

The MOU both governments signed says that they will introduce the age changes after the FTA enters into force. I don’t really get why both sides agreed to doing it that way. Why not after the deal was signed? At that point the FTA was past the point of no return.

On the plus side the report stage and hopefully 3rd reading of the Trade Bill are in one week and the deal will be much closer to EIF.

Is it likely to be changed this year to 35 or is it more likely to be next year ?

Australia Backpackers Guide:

Do you have good reason to believe it will be this year? If so can you please share the evidence with us. So far your predictions have proven to be incorrect and you have never provided any evidence to back them up. I find it hard to trust any information you provide.

Dan:

The Danish and Italian age increase was announced by the previous Australian immigration minister online three months in advance. It wasn’t easy to find though. I don’t know about announcements from the other sides.

All this waiting and waiting and waiting has really put me off this whole idea of moving to the UK

Just came back from Asia and have now decided to move to VN instead and teach english. Straightforward process if you have a degree and online teaching certificate. Maybe this long delay has been in a blessing in disguise after all

Next week will we find out if the agreement is signed and if so will that mean that the age change will happen this year ? Also can you apply for a WHV while in Aus on a holiday visitors visa or do you need to leave the country to apply ?

Hi Mark, based on what I have been on twitter today the FTA is likely to be finalised by the end of this month but we are waiting to find out what date the FTA will enter into force (either 30 days later or on a date mutually agreed by both governments)

However, the changes to the WHV can happen within 2 years of the FTA entering into force. We are all anxiously hoping for the changes to happen asap and be announced asap.

I really hope it won’t take 2 years from now to come into force 🙁 I would love to go later this year.

Emma

Someone here, I think Jonny, was told by their local MP that their expectation was that the age change would be soon after EIF. If you look at the UK government ad I posted a few days ago they also mention the age change being soon when they could have not mentioned it at all

We still need to wait and see but I think there’s reason to be positive.

How long did it take for the age change for other countries such as Ireland, Denmark they’re both 35

Unfortunately they’re not a good guide for us as the age changes were negotiated independently and weren’t part of an FTA. We’re in a different situation.

However, what we do know is that all the laws are already in place to allow for an age change for Brits. To the best of my knowledge there’s nothing preventing it. It could, in theory, change on the same day as EIF. The age changes for the most recent countries, Italy and Denmark, were officially announced by Australia three months prior to the changes coming in effect so we might get a few months notice before increase for us. After they’ve been agreed the changes themselves are an administrative process as opposed to political one.

They could actually do it now but the UK and Australia agreed to increasing the age (and removal of specified work) after EIF and it seems like they are sticking to it. I’m not expecting any news until after the deal is ratified at the earliest. That’s likely to happen this month though.

I don’t see why they would wait either. The removal of specified work might be an issue as the Aussie agriculture industry will lose a lot of cheap labour they have historically been able to take advantage of (sometimes abuse). Given how close it is to EIF though I’m assuming most Brits have delayed applying until more news regarding the changes comes anyway so the impact to the ag industry might already have happened.

NZ and UK are commencing theirs from the 1st July.

Just shows that we don’t needs the Trade Deal in place for this to go through!! So someone is holding it up!

Fingers crossed we get this done ASAP with Oz too!

Amazing news for NZ! Does anyone know if you can apply for it again like you will be able to do with the new Aus one? I got a WHV for NZ in 2020 and only used one month before I came home, if I can get it again I will happily go there whilst I wait for Aus.

Hi Emma,

The link to their website is below.

It says they’re going to announce further details soon! But nothing to suggest you won’t be able too!!

https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/media-centre/news-notifications/upgrade-to-uk-nz-working-holiday-youth-mobility-scheme-in-effect-by-july-2023

Oooooo, a bit of positive news and some hope that, there is a small chance we all could very well be applying for our WHV this year!? – or have I completely misread the last few comments lol?

I think so too Dan!

It appears as if rules for Oz, Canadian and NZ workers is changing from the 12th April.

“From 12 April, the annual allocation of visas under the Youth Mobility Scheme is increasing for Australian nationals (30,000 to 35,000) and Canadian nationals (6,000 to 8,000). Also, for nationals of New Zealand only:

The age range is being expanded from 18-30 to 18-35; and
the length of stay is being increased from 2 to 3 years.”

https://www.freeths.co.uk/2023/03/10/latest-immigration-rule-changes-for-business-people-and-workers/

Some good news read the article! Sounds like the age range should be changed in 2-3 months max. Not sure on the without farming though.

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2023/03/australia-free-trade-deal-could-be-completed-this-month/

What time will we get an update on the changed is it today the 13th ? Thanks

Bradly and Lee – this the age change for Aus? Changed within 2-3 months?

Australian changes should be imminent

Odd how NZ was first out of the gate but this is a good sign

Will I be able to apply for a second whv if I had one in 2014 and I’m now 31 ?

What happened to the official update today ? The link shared above is dated the 10 March. Really hoping we get an official update asap this is dragging on too long.

Just checked the House of Lords time table. The report stage doesn’t take place until Tuesday midday so won’t likely find out till then or few days after this.

After watching the House of Lords they didn’t seem happy with the meat trade deal and wanted changed with that but some were moved and some not moved not sure what implications this has. But after checking the gov site the report stage in now complete according to that.

And from what’s been said in this group and what I’ve looked at 3rd reading is usually straight after this. Usually same day but they didn’t mention it but have seen it say it can take days. So hopefully this is done by the end of the week. Then it’s royal assent.

Sitting for third reading is 20th March.

How long does the consideration of ammendments take before the Royal ascent takes place?

Hopefully as its so close to the end, it won’t take too long at all.

Not sure what I’m looking forward to more, finally getting to apply for my visa, going to Australia or handing in my resignation at my dead end job

Dan, I dream about the day I will be handing in my resignation! I think I will cry happy tears when I am finally on that plane 🙂 I cannot wait to come onto this site one day (soon) and see that we can apply for the visa!

I keep checking on thr government website a few times a day just in case things have sped up haha.

I’ve already got my resignation typed up. All I need to do is hand it in as soon as my visa is approved.

In fact, as I still live at home with parents all I have to do is
Apply for visa
Sell all my belongings
Book flight and that’s it!

Anyone looking for updates on the bill.
https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152

This is very good news! Thanks for the update Bradley.

April 12th seems to be the date the visa rules in the UK will be changed to accommodate the age increase but June 29th and July 1st will be the dates the changes will come into force in the UK and New Zealand respectively.

Dan: If you look at other bills (which you should, don’t take my word for it) consideration of amendments normally takes a few days and royal assent could happen any time from the same day to a month later.

Dan

Sorry, I didn’t explain it very well.

April 12th is when the rules that the UK’s visa office has to follow will be changed. The rules changes include increasing the number of Aussies and Canadians that be granted visas and increasing the age to 35 and length of stay for Kiwis.

However, Kiwis over 30 won’t be able to apply until June 29th and it will be July 1st for Brits. The visa rules get changed quite often (two weeks apart in one instance last year) so changing it for Aussies won’t be an issue.

With regards to the silence about the visa age change for Australia I’m assuming it’s because the wording of the agreement states they won’t change it until EIF of the FTA. I’m interested to hear other theories though if anyone has one.

We’re nearly there though!

Final reading is today, 20th March. Hopefully we get some news:

https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152/news

Check out @welcome.to.travel on Instagram, they have just posted a story saying they believe it will be late April/early May

Is that the timescale for them to announce the changes or for the changes to be put into place ?

Just watched the live stream of House of Lords. They have passed the bill! No mention on how long royal assent will be or when it’s going into force but looks like it will be within the month!

Also not sure with the removal of farming should
Hopefully find out soon!

Excellent! Thanks for watching it Lee.

Wooohooo!!! Thanks for letting us know Lee!

We’re just that one step closer to what we’ve been waiting for!

Consideration of amendments is set for tomorrow Wed 22nd.

https://whatson.parliament.uk/events/commons/thisweek/

This coming Friday (24th) there’s also this scheduled:

Trade (Australia and New Zealand) (Parliamentary Approval) Bill: Second Reading

There’s nothing that makes reference to the trade bill scheduled for next week so this might be the last thing before royal assent.

If it’s all done and EIF by next month, will we still have to wait for a date on when they’ll change the visa age then?

Information overload at the moment

I just did some more research and the Trade (Australia and New Zealand) (Parliamentary Approval) Bill: Second Reading that’s taking place on Friday isn’t anything to do with the current Trade Bill so looks like today is what counts.

Thanks to Nick we know there is only one amendment and it’s a small change in wording so it’s looking very likely consideration of amendments could be done today.

Not trying to get anybody’s hopes up but there are two bills (Genetic Technology and Supply and Appropriation) that are scheduled to receive royal assent tomorrow. Charles Windsor has never had a proper job before so it would make sense to get him to sign three at the same time while they have his attention.

So oooo close now!

I can’t take this waiting any longer haha

Amendments passed!

All that we need now is Royal assent!

Hopefully we get a date sonning

It’s so close! When will we know a date for royal assent?

Is it too early to start crying with joy!?

Apparently it’s gone through

https://www.miragenews.com/uk-parliament-approves-trade-agreement-with-973863/

The link above says:
The Australia-UK FTA will enter into force after UK processes are complete and Australia and the UK exchange diplomatic notes identifying a commencement date.

https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3152/news

Apparently the royal assent was done 23rd March and is now in law.

All done and dusted guys and girls… We should hear about the visas at any point from now I guess!

I simply can’t wait that long haha.

But I tell you, how good is it to see on the government website that all boxes are now ticked!

I am so excited!

If anyone here is planning on going to brisbane… Let me know and we can meet up haha

I know everyone here is excited, as we have been waiting for this for soo long. But on what grounds could a visa be denied?Imagine waiting this long for that to happen

https://www.themandarin.com.au/215582-albanese-welcomes-historic-free-trade-agreement-with-uk/

“The UK parliament approved the trade deal on Friday with royal assent meaning both nations can bring the FTA into force as soon as possible”

Could be any day now

So close now! Just waiting for it to EIF and then wait for them to announce the age change

Same, I check this site every day for updates. So happy I found you all!

I just want a concrete date so I can start planning properly!

I’m in Thailand / Malaysia doing the same thing! The wait continues .. hopefully some news this week!!

Where’s the best place to find out when the deal EIF and when they raise the visa age limit?

I’m guessing it will be this page?

Yeah not sure I’ve just been trying to google Uk aus fta and see recent news. Surely should see something within the month of when it was agreed.

https://www.ft.com/content/b3d55007-f5fe-4095-99f3-686376be7e42

Theres a bunch of sad activists that are challenging the outcome of the FTA

“A campaign group has taken the first step towards legal action against the UK government over its free trade deal with Australia, arguing that it flouts Britain’s international climate obligations.

Global Feedback, a UK and Netherlands-based group, said it would seek a judicial review, claiming ministers failed to carry out proper due diligence on the environmental impact of importing Australian agricultural products, such as beef and dairy”

Sad sad individuals 😀

Can we get an EIF date please?

Don’t think they understand people have their lives on hold, and have done for months/years!

I’d expect to hear about it soon Bradley. We’re a small group relative to others that will benefit from this so they probably understand but don’t care. It’s in their interest to announce it when they have concrete dates though.

For anyone concerned about the Financial Times article:
That group is not trying to prevent the FTA from going through, they are trying to get the UK government to carry out an environmental impact assessment of the FTA and threatening legal action if they don’t. Both countries have a terrible track record regarding environmental protection so this kind of thing is (thankfully) inevitable.

This is their website: https://feedbackglobal.org/

I think it’s 30 days from when both governments confirm in writing that they’ve enacted the necessary laws unless a different date is agreed upon.

I’ve got my money on July 1

Australia and the UK’s free trade agreement is poised to come into force midyear, with Britain aiming to finalise its legislative paperwork by the end of May, UK Investment Minister Dominic Johnson says.

He said there were some technical instruments that had to be tabled before Westminster, around issues such as procurement, but these were straightforward and British processes would soon be complete.

“Towards the end of May is the target date. We’re committed. I harry and chivvy my team to press forward with the technical implementation,” Lord Johnson said.

https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/uk-free-trade-deal-to-be-settled-within-weeks-20230331-p5cwyo

https://www.sheepcentral.com/shearing-sector-gains-from-a-uk-fta-could-be-months-away/

Not wanting to panic anyone but this recent article is indicating that the implementation of the FTA might not happen until 1/07/23

“Advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade indicates the FTA might not come into force until early in the next financial year.

And both countries have up to two years to implement Working Holiday Maker visa changes that would extend age and work period limits for UK workers here”

It also says:
A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesperson told Sheep Central the Australian Government intends to exchange Third Person (Diplomatic) Notes with the UK to enable entry into force of the A-UKFTA at the earliest opportunity.

Just trying to gauge what’s going on above – do we feel the changes will be done and visa available on 1st July 2023?

Just trying to understand what ”implementation of the FTA” actually means.

I’m 32 now so hoping this happens in the next 4-5 months

I’m reading everything I can at the moment – feel that based on previous timescales July is maybe a little optimistic – August more plausible – but could be either (or neither!). The New Zealand announcement was made on the 10th March and will live by 29th June 2023 (3 months). A specific announcement just on the WHV hasn’t been made yet… It’s reasonable to assume the mechanics of the visa change should be relatively similar for Aus (and you can bet that Aus/NZ Governments knew intimately how both agreements were being agreed owing to how closly aligned their immigration policies are). Other countries are already 35 for Aus – so this isn’t a brand new process, just the change to include UK applicants alongside others.

Ofcourse, it’s possible that some kind of technicality gets in the way of all of this – both sides have given themselves the small print of “up to two years from the EIF of the FTA” which could well be the case. The quotes included above and the articles available would suggest that there is some real momentum on both sides to get this implemented ASAP – but we won’t know until we know. I’m keeping everything crossed for August though.

I would like to think the age increase would come in to effect in July 2023 to compete with the New Zealand visa change. However, I guess no one really knows and we will just have to wait and see what happens.

I really need the changes to happen by July to be fair, I really hope we get an announcement soon like New Zealand’s announcement.

“Australia and the UK’s free trade agreement is poised to come into force midyear, with Britain aiming to finalise its legislative paperwork by the end of May, UK Investment Minister Dominic Johnson says.”

https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/uk-free-trade-deal-to-be-settled-within-weeks-20230331-p5cwyo

I agree. I just want to know the date, whenever it may be.

I’m flying to Cairns in Oz on Sunday… Praying we get good news this month! Hostels are soooo expensive in Australia now!

Seems to have gone a bit quiet to be honest. I don’t think we’ll hear anything until after the deal EIF…I think it will come after the NZ changes.

This is concerning radio silence since it was agreed, surely if it was July they would announce it by now ? I’m scared it might not get changed this year.

I think we won’t hear anything until end of May when the legislative paperwork is finalised by the UK.

It is a little concerning all this silence but hopefully Emma is right, all the paperwork needs to be finalised before they’ll say anything….I hope!

The silence the last two years was different though – before it was confirmed as going through UK Parliament it was always going to be months of waiting. We’re into a slight different period now. The NZ change was announced on 10th March and is going live on 29th June. The Aus change has been in progress for a little longer and only brings UK Passports in line with others (Ireland, Italy, Denmark) with the 35 age limit – so technical changes to reflect this should be minimal. The UK Government have a vested interest in getting this in ASAP as it’s their only post-Brexit achievement. The Aus Government have a vested interest in getting this in ASAP as there are loads of vacancies that need filling and I’m sure they’ll want to contend with the NZ change. I expect we won’t hear much the next two weeks but an announcement after that would be reasonable. My money is on August.

August for the changes do you reckon, Alex?

I’ve emailed a couple of dozen people in the UK Government, FCDO, Home Office, and Aus Department for trade etc. not had any useful responses just yet. I’d be cautiously optimistic we might hear something this week or next about confirming a planned date. Could be worth emailing your MP and asking them to chase it too.

I’m thinking of going travelling next year and wanting to have a working ho in Aus but is it worth waiting or just getting a tourist visa?! What if you got sponsorship via a job opportunity – would that change the circumstance?!

Haha you guys are funny…everything crossed hope it works out for us!

Are you both wanting to work or having a working holiday out there now?

Raksha, I’m wanting to work out there and eventually get permanent residency! That’s the plan anyway.

SHame I can’t go now as my friend who’s currently out there manages a business and struggling to fill a position he said I could have if only I could go now!

Hoping there will be some news shortly which will announce the date for the changes. If not, I’m debating going to NZ instead after July.

Anyone else thinking the same thing (NZ instead?)?

So much exciting activity and now…nothing. 🙁

It’s nearly a month since the UK ratified.

Absolutely zero had happened since

I think we might get more updates after the kings coronation and 6th May… Well I hope!

Loads will have happened. Just nothing that we’ve heard about
Don’t sweat it. Announcement in the next month is most likely. The odds that the U.K. government were ever going to achieve the minimum notice period of 30 days were non-existent. I don’t think the Kings coronation will have any significance in government policy making but anytime up to/around then in May is possible.

Hi guys, so I’m in Australia now on a tourist visa. If the changes do happen on 1st July. Does anyone know if I can apply from inside the country or do I need to leave and apply?

It’s says on Scenario 1 that you can apply within or outside of Australia so maybe it’s another thing that’s changing?

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/whm-program/latest-news/arrangements-uk-passport-holders

Jonny

Once the changes are made you can apply from inside if you’ve already had a 417 visa.

Hi guys, I just saw a post on Facebook and someone contacted the head of foreign policy and they told them the deal will come onto force at the end of May and that they hope for the visa changes to happen in July because NZ have already confirmed it. Hopefully this is true!

Can u paste the comment, jonny?

I messaged the head of forgein policy at the British chambers and they said the FTA is coming into place end of May so hopefully FTA start of July

hello ☺️ did they say they hoped the visa changes to be July?

they said NZ will be July and as it is the australia and NZ free trade agreement they are hoping AU will also be July

By Visa changes, do you think they mean the age change? Or do you reckon the removal of farm work will come alongside that or at a much later date?

Does this mean age range or will this be the 3 years without farming as well. I’ve always been apprehensive with the farming one because I’d of thought they’d want to try hold out longer for this change ?

Yeah there isn’t much else to read about at the moment to be fair. I think we will find out more in the coming week though.

It’s a stunning as I remember it! I have been going down the east coast on the greyhound coach and heading to Sydney this afternoon. I’m in Brisbane and it’s really sunny and warm! Can’t complain!

I’m not subscribed to The Australian Financial Times but this is the first bit I could see.

Australia and the UK’s free trade agreement is poised to come into force midyear, with Britain aiming to finalise its legislative paperwork by the end of May, UK Investment Minister Dominic Johnson says.

Hopefully comes in sooner I’m starting to plan my south east Asia trip then Sydney for Christmas!

.

Anthony Albanese has just arrived in London and said on his Instagram that ahead of the kings coronation him and Rishi will be discussing the FTA so hopefully one of the subjects discussed is the visa changes and we hear something soon!!

I’ve just had a reply from the UK Department for Business and trade;

We are working hard to bring the FTA into force at the earliest opportunity so businesses and consumers can reap the benefits. We expect to be able to bring the agreement into force in Spring 2023. The Government has brought forward the necessary primary legislation in the form of the Trade (Australia and New Zealand) Act 2023, which has now completed its passage through Parliament and has received Royal Assent.
The commitments regarding Working Holiday Visas were taken in a separate side letter which specifies that the changes will need to be implemented within two years of entry into force of the Free Trade Agreement. UK and Australian officials are working together to bring these changes into effect as soon as operationally possible.

No new information but at least the FTA is still looking like the next few months. I thought we’re already out of spring with it being May – but maybe not!

They’ve caveated the WHV timeline difference again – although my previous response form the Aus government has said all the Aus technicalities have already been completed. Clearly the UK can make a change quickly when they want to (NZ WHV) … guess we’re still none the wiser really!

Is it possible to move from an Irish passport Visa into a UK one?

My gf ( 28 y.o) is from Northern Ireland, and has dual nationality – so a UK passport and an Irish one.

Unfortunately she has lost her UK passport – and her new one will take a minimum of 10 weeks to arrive. But we are due to arrive in OZ in 3 weeks!!

She wants to apply now via Irish passport, then transfer onto a UK visa when the new passport arrives. This will allow her to take advantage of the new UK/AU visa rules (when they finally come into action, ofc).

If not, she is considering applying on an emergency UK passport? Anyone got any experience with this?

Any advice would be great, thanks.

Judging by the link below, I believe we’ll hear something on the changes and if/when they come into affect during the Australia Budget.

I have had a look and this is due on Tuesday 9th. So not long to wait.

https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/australian-visa-changes-for-2023-2024/8oypo0xui

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/landmark-post-brexit-trade-deals-to-come-into-force-this-month-driving-economic-growth-across-the-uk

Official release from UK government

“The agreement is expected to enter into force on the 31 May, subject to finalisation of UK domestic procedures with remaining changes to UK law coming into force at the end of May.”

Came here to post this too! NZ FTA at the same time so hopefully the Visa rules align with June as well! Buzzing

After what seems so long with silence since it passed in parliament, finally starting to hear some good news!

I’m trying to think ahead (maybe tok far ahead!), but how difficult do you think it would be to get permanent residency in Australia?

I’m an unskilled worker with only supermarket work since I left school at 16, I’m now 31. There is no future for me here, can’t get a mortgage, can’t afford to live on my own etc.

Just wondered how realistic I need to be here haha?

I was gonna come over as unskilled but I’ve recently in last year and half picked up a role as electrical technician started at 29. Now worked my way up really well and spoke to people on linked in they’re crying out for people in that sector. Don’t need any qualifications or anything. Failing that I know a friend who was doing furniture removal and he got offered a visa. And know a few people falling into jobs they wouldn’t imagine then getting sponsored!

Lee- Oh really!? So it is truly possible then to get sponsored relatively easily?

I know I shouldn’t be thinking about things like this yet as I still have to wait for them to change the visa age but it’s all I can think about haha

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-05-05/australia-uk-free-trade-deal-complete-takes-effect-within-weeks/102306654

This article specifically mentions the age changes

I subscribed the the Australian newspaper just so I could read this article.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pronounced “it is game on,” as the United Kingdom-Australia free trade deal is fast tracked to come into force at the end of this month, resulting in three year working visas between the two countries, as well as more jobs and exports.
Mr Albanese said the changes to the labour market as part of the free trade agreement would mean UK citizens up the age of 35 can obtain three year temporary visas to Australia and vice versa.

Previously the one year working holiday visa for UK citizens was for an initial 12 months and only for people up to the age of 30.

“If you are a UK citizen or a local Londoner as part of the FTA we will change some of the labour market, so that instead of being 30 years of age to get that temporary visa, it will increase it up to 35 in both countries, and extend it to three years so that people can come here and get that real experience over a longer period of time,’’ Mr Albanese said as he visited an Australian-themed store Bondi Green in Paddington on Thursday. Mr Albanese said the final processes of the FTA were being passed through the British parliament on Thursday so that on Friday when he meets with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the work will be completed before the coronation.

“You always need a deadline,’’ Mr Albanese said.

“And this afternoon, literally today, some of the processes in the UK parliament are being completed so that tomorrow when I meet with Prime Minister Sunak at Number 10 Downing Street, we will be able to complete the FTA timetable so that this month it will come into force on the 31st of May.

Doesn’t say it will be within 2 years so maybe we are getting the visa changes soon??

Looks like we are the winners now!!!

https://anzuk.blog/visa-update-aus-uk-free-trade-agreement/

The long-awaited changes to the UK and Australian working holiday visas have been confirmed by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese & we finally have good news to share!

We are pleased to announce that Anthony Albanese has confirmed that the agreement will be in place by the 31st of May, with the age eligibility changing up to the age of 35 instead of under 31 and extending the length of the visa from the current 2 years, up to 3 years.

This means that more Australians will be eligible to access the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, and be provided with a longer period of time to gain valuable work and life experience as well as being able to explore the UK and Europe for longer – a win-win for all!

We anticipate that for those who are currently on a Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, you will be able to apply for an extra year, but this is yet to be confirmed.

These changes will also benefit UK travellers coming to Australia with the same increase in age limit and being able to work throughout their stay of up to 3 years – this is still to be confirmed by the Australian and UK Governments.

There is yet to be a formal release, but the Australian Prime Minister has made this announcement and we will be updating this blog as more information comes through.

I’m turning 35 in 2 weeks . If it kicks in May 31 will I still be able to apply before I turn 36 ?

My partner has done a first year working Holliday visa on an Irish passport in 2018 and did not complete the farm work . They now have also a British passport , will they be able to apply for a second year working holiday visa from Ireland or would it be need to be applied on the British passport ?

I am seeing a few outlets quoting the “within two years” phrase!

God forbid this isn’t the case. We’ve waited long enough!!!