Greeks, Australians agree on ‘work and holiday’ visa exchange scheme

After two years of talks, Greek and Australian officials have agreed on a “work and holiday” visa exchange scheme that would grant 500 young people a one-year work permit as part of a pilot program aimed at boosting tourism and bilateral relations.

The scheme, which aims to provide 500 18- to 30-year-olds the opportunity to live and work in either Greece or Australia for a year, is expected to go into effect in the coming months following its approval in Parliament, according to Tourism Minister Olga Kefaloyianni (photo), who signed the agreement with Australia’s Immigration Minister Scott Morrison in Canberra.

Morrison said the scheme would be extended if it is successful.