North America

United States

The US does not run a generic working-holiday visa. Australians work via sponsored J-1 categories (4 months summer work, longer for interns and trainees) or under student / exchange streams. Most school leavers go for J-1 Summer Work Travel.

Currency

USD

1 AUD = 0.66 USD (mid-market, 2026-05-21)

Cost of living

100% of Sydney

Working Holiday Visa for Australians

USA Work and Holiday (Australia-only J-1 pathway via sponsor)

Age 18-30 (varies by category) | up to 4 months

Smartraveller

Check live advisory

Emergency: 911

Working Holiday Visa

Scheme: USA Work and Holiday (Australia-only J-1 pathway via sponsor)
Visa class: J-1 Summer Work Travel / J-1 Intern / J-1 Trainee
Eligible age: 18-30 (varies by category)
Max stay: 4 months

Source: j1visa.state.gov

Tourist or short-stay entry

ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation)

Up to 3 months. Work rights: none.

Australian passport-holders enter under the Visa Waiver Program with ESTA (USD 21).

Source: esta.cbp.dhs.gov

Highlights

Summer Work Travel (J-1) is a recognised pathway with ski-resort, beach and camp jobs.
Massive country, easy domestic travel, strong customer-service tip culture (wages assume tips).
Career-relevant J-1 Intern and J-1 Trainee categories for students and recent grads (up to 18 months).
Strong demand for camp counsellors, ski hosts and theme-park staff each season.

Watch outs

No open work permit. Always tied to a sponsor (BUNAC, IENA, CCUSA, AIFS).
Healthcare is private; travel insurance is mandatory and often expensive for adventure activities.
Carry passport or ID at all times; many US bars and venues card under-25s.
Gun-violence statistics are higher than home; check Smartraveller advice for the state you visit.

Money tips

Open a US bank account if you can (Chase Premier Plus is common for J-1 holders); Wise works for transfers.
Tipping rule of thumb: 18-22% restaurant, 15-20% rideshare, USD 1-2 per drink at a bar.
File a US tax return at year end (1040-NR for J-1); IRS refunds are routine.
SIM cards: Mint Mobile or US Mobile prepaid plans are far cheaper than the big three carriers.

Typical costs (AUD)

Hostel bed per night: $55
Budget meal: $20
Mid-range meal: $40
Beer (bar): $10
Public transport day pass: $12

Indicative only. Tourist-zone prices are usually 50-100% higher than local prices.

Practical basics

Power plug: Type A / B (NEMA 1-15 / 5-15)
Drives on: Right
Emergency number: 911

Sources

Last updated 2026-05-21.