Hospitality Internship: Frequently Asked Questions
Hospitality Internship: Paid hospitality internship in Australia
Intern at Australia’s top hotels and enjoy its breathtaking scenery.
Is this a paid internship?
Yes, the internship is paid. Minimum pay starts at 24 Australian dollars per hour.
What level of English do I need to participate in the program?
To join the program, you need an English level of at least Upper Intermediate. You should be able to converse freely in English on almost any topic.
Will I need to provide a language proficiency certificate?
Yes, IELTS or TOEFL.
How long is the internship?
Available in 6-, 12-, or 24-month formats — you can choose based on your experience and goals.
Can I work two jobs?
No, that’s not possible. The 407 visa is issued for a specific employer and the internship specified in the documents. Working for another employer or taking a second job would violate the visa conditions.
Will someone meet me at the airport?
Airport pickup is available for an additional fee.
Will I have time to travel?
Yes. You’ll get 4 weeks to travel around Australia.
Can I participate for less than 6 months?
No, you can’t participate for less than 6 months.
Can I join if I don’t have a background in hospitality?
The Hospitality Internship is only for people with education or qualifications in hospitality or the restaurant industry. If you don’t have those, our Professional Internship in Australia is a better fit.
Can I participate without prior work experience?
Unfortunately, no. Work experience is one of the sponsor’s requirements. The program that doesn’t require work experience is Professional Internship in Australia.
How do I pay for the program?
After you sign the agreement with IEC, you’ll need to pay the registration fee of 600$ AUD within 7 calendar days.
Once your internship placement is confirmed, you’ll pay the second program payment.
When can I apply?
You can apply at any time — the Hospitality Internship program runs year-round. But the visa process and finding a position can take 4–6 months, so it’s best to start early.
What about taxes?
Your employer withholds taxes from your wages. You can get those taxes refunded. You’ll need to fill out a tax refund form before leaving Australia.
Will I need to have an interview with the employer?
Yes, in most cases it’s a required step. After your sponsor finds a suitable position, the employer may invite you to an online interview to get to know you better, discuss expectations, and make sure you’re a good fit for the internship. It’s a great opportunity to show your motivation and ask questions about your future placement.
How many hours per week is the internship?
Participants work at least 30 hours per week.
Do I need to get health insurance?
Yes, insurance is mandatory. You’ll get it as part of your visa preparation, and it covers basic medical expenses.
Where will I live while I’m working?
Your sponsor helps you find housing. You can choose to live with a host family or in a student residence.