Backpackers flying into Australia for a stint of sun, surf and work are not equal when it comes to visas. Some have carte blanche, and others – often from neighbouring nations – need two years of post-school study and must pass an English-language test.

Thus, working holidaymakers from France, Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium can come for a year with no strings attached, but those from neighbouring Spain, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Austria have to prove they are well-educated and speak good English.