With the rise of remote work, digital nomads are looking for the best destinations to live and work while enjoying a high quality of life. Australia, with its vibrant cities, stunning beaches, and strong internet infrastructure, is an attractive choice for location-independent professionals. However, one major challenge is finding the right visa that allows them to stay legally while working for overseas clients or companies.
Can They Legally Work in Australia?
Australia does not currently have a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa, unlike some other countries. However, there are still several visa options that allow remote workers to live in Australia while working for overseas clients, provided they meet the requirements.
1. Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) – Short Stays
The Visitor Visa allows you to stay in Australia for up to 12 months, but you cannot work for an Australian company or take up employment within the country. However, if your income is entirely from overseas sources, such as freelancing or remote work for a foreign employer, this may, subject to conditions, be an option.
Key Features:
✔ Stay up to 12 months (depending on the stream)
✔ Work remotely only for overseas companies
✔ No local work or business activities allowed
Challenges:
✖ No extensions beyond 12 months
✖ Strict conditions against working for Australian clients
2. Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462) – For Young Nomads
If you’re aged 18–35 ( or 18–35 for some countries including the UK), the Working Holiday Visa lets you stay in Australia for up to up to 3 years and work. While traditionally used for short-term jobs, young nomads can use this visa to work remotely while exploring the country.
Key Features:
✔ Stay for 12 months, with the possibility of extensions up to a maximum of 3 years
✔ Work remotely while in Australia
✔ Work for Australian companies (but not in the same job for more than 6 months)
Challenges:
✖ Age limit applies
✖ Not renewable beyond three years
3. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) – For Sponsored Remote Workers
Some nomads work for international companies that have Australian offices. If your employer sponsors you, the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Visa can provide a legal way to stay and work in Australia.
Key Features:
✔ Stay for up to four years
✔ Full work rights for a sponsoring company
✔ Possible pathway to permanent residency
Challenges:
✖ Requires sponsorship by an Australian employer
✖ Strict skill and salary requirements
Future of Digital Nomad Visas in Australia
Many countries now offer dedicated Digital Nomad Visas, and Australia may introduce one in the future. Meanwhile, they can use the visitor, working holiday, student, and business visas to stay in Australia legally while working remotely.
Final Thoughts
In Australia, there are several ways to stay legally while working remotely. Choosing the right visa depends on your age, length of stay, and work situation. Before making the move, always check the latest visa conditions to ensure compliance with Australian immigration laws.
Would you like assistance with specific visa applications? Please let us know!
