Although Australia is an enticing destination for remote workers from around the world, there is not currently a specific digital nomad visa available
However, there are several visa options that facilitate remote work in the country. These include online visas for Australia.
This page provides an overview of the various visas suitable for working remotely. We also outline tax obligations and key considerations for living in Australia as a digital nomad.
Can you work remotely on a visa in Australia?
Yes. Some of the visas that permit you to work remotely in Australia include:
Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor Visa
Short-term travel electronic authorisation (Australia ETA and eVisitor Visa) and online visa for tourism, transit, business consultations, attending conferences, or negotiating contracts.
Visitor Visa (subclass 600)
Non-electronic short-term visa for nationalities not eligible for online application This must be obtained from an Australian embassy or consulate.
Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 and Subclass 462)
These visas allow people aged 18-30 (35 for some countries) to work and travel in Australia for up to a year.
Each of these visas can be used by digital nomads looking to include remote working arrangements during their stay in Australia.
The type of visa you should apply for depends on your nationality, activities, and the amount of time you plan to spend.
Eligibility for Australia’s remote work visas
The different Australia remote work visa options are available to a wide range of nationalities:
- eVisitor Visa - Aimed at citizens from EU member states
- ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) - A number of nationalities are eligible for the ETA, including the US, Canada, and Japan
- Working Holiday Visa subclass 417 - Available to citizens from countries with an agreement with Australia, such as Canada, the UK, Germany, and several Scandinavian countries.
- Working Holiday Visa Subclass 462 - Available to nationals of over 25 countries, including Argentina, Austria, China, Spain, Switzerland, and the United States
How long can you do remote work in Australia?
The duration for which you can undertake remote work in Australia varies depending on the type of visa you get:
- ETA and eVisitor visa: Permits multiple entries into Australia for up to 3 months at a time over a 12-month period.
- Visitor Visa: Generally allow a stay of up to 3 months, and in some cases, up to 12 months, depending on the specific conditions of the visa.
- Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 and Subclass 462): This typically allows a stay of up to 12 months, and permits you to work at an Australian business for up to 4 months.
As long as you meet the visa requirements, you can work as a digital nomad for a company outside of Australia during the periods indicated above.
Understanding Australian tax requirements for digital nomads
Navigating tax obligations is crucial for digital nomads in Australia:
Residency for tax purposes: Staying more than half the year in Australia typically makes you a tax resident, subjecting your global income to Australian taxes. Residents pay progressive tax rates.
Non-residents: If you do qualify as a resident, you’re only taxed on your Australian-sourced income. Non-residents are taxed at a starting rate of 32.5%.
We advise you to consult with a tax professional to fully understand your tax obligations. This may also help you take advantage of any applicable tax treaties between your home country and Australia.
What do I need to know to live in Australia as a digital nomad?
Living in Australia as a digital nomad involves more than just securing the right visa. Here are essential aspects to consider for a successful experience:
Accommodation
Australia offers a variety of accommodation options suitable for digital nomads. Consider short-term rental platforms or specialized digital nomad accommodations.
Connectivity
Reliable internet access is crucial for remote work. Australia generally provides excellent broadband coverage, especially in major cities and tourist spots.
However, remote and rural areas might have limited connectivity. So you should plan accordingly if you intend to work from these locations.
Healthcare
While Australia has a high standard of healthcare, it's important for non-residents to have adequate health insurance.
This is a mandatory requirement for several of the Australian visa types, including the Visitor Visa and Working Holiday visas.
Banking and finances
Opening a bank account in Australia as a foreigner is straightforward. The country's 4 major banks — NAB, Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, and Westpac — even allow online applications.
You’ll need to provide several documents, including your passport, visa, proof of address, and expected arrival date in Australia. Additionally, you'll need to supply your Tax File Number (TFN), and details about your employer and salary.
Cultural integration
Australia is known for its friendly and laid-back culture, but it can vary widely from urban to rural areas. We advise you to engage with community events and local meetups to enhance your experience and help you understand local customs and lifestyle.
Addressing these factors will help ensure that your time as a digital nomad in Australia is both enjoyable and productive!
