cherrybobs

I'd be interested to know the outcome of this as I'm looking at doing the same when my 457 ends.

Thanks for the responses.

I would qualify on points but I unfortunately just don't have the thousands of dollars to go down that route. The WHV (at $365) is a much cheaper option.

And moving in with the boyfriend isn't an option, it's far too early!

I moved to Australis in June 2012 on a year's contract on a 457 visa. My visa (and job) will finish in June; there are no opportunities to extend the job. And there aren't many jobs out there so I think it'll take me a while to find a new job.

Do I have to leave by the time the visa expires if I haven't found a job in the meantime? I have family here and a new boyfriend and I really don't want to go.

The best option I can come up with is going to New Zealand for a week when my visa expires, and applying for a Working Holiday Visa, which would give me time to find a new job. Will they hold it against me if I've already had a 457?

I really don't want to go back to the UK! :sad: