Colombia does not have the Work and Holiday 462 visa in the same way as some countries in the region, so most of the real pathways run through study and skills. This general-information guide walks through those routes, why medical exams and biometric data are requested, and where to confirm requirements and costs at the official source. This is not legal advice and is not a promise of any outcome.
The reality of the Work and Holiday 462
Unlike some countries in the region, Colombia is not currently listed among the countries with a Work and Holiday (subclass 462) arrangement. The list of eligible countries is published on the official subclass 462 visa page and can change, so it is worth confirming the current situation there before planning. That does not close other doors: study and skills are the main pathways for Colombian citizens.
Study: the student visa 500
The student visa (subclass 500) is one of the most used routes for Colombians. Enrolling in a course enables this visa and, in some cases, later steps after studies end. The costs and the health assessment are listed at the official source and change.
Skilled pathways
The skilled visas (subclasses 189, 190, 491 and related) depend on your occupation, experience and often a points system and occupation lists that are updated. Health and biometric data are usually part of the process. We do not predict outcomes: every case is assessed under the current rules.
Medical and biometric requirements
Many Australian visas ask for medical examinations and biometric data (fingerprints and photo) as part of the assessment. This applies based on the visa type and your situation; it is not optional. The Australian Embassy in Colombia website shows where and how to book biometric collection in the country. The exact details and costs are set by the official source and can change.
The next step
Every case has nuances and the requirements change. If you would like to look at how this applies to your situation, contact us and we will go through it with you.
Want to review your situation? Contact us →
General information · not individual legal advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-27 · Source: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au