Young adults in India can now set their sights on a unique opportunity in Australia with the launch of the new Work and Holiday visa ballot system. Starting later this year, Indian citizens aged 18 to 30 can apply to live and work in Australia for up to 12 months, with a total of 1,000 visas allocated annually as part of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA). This move is part of a larger effort to strengthen ties between the two nations and expand bilateral opportunities.
The Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa allows young people to work short-term jobs, travel across Australia, and even enrol in study programmes for up to four months. The flexibility of the visa makes it an attractive option for those seeking adventure while earning money to fund their travels. Applicants can leave and re-enter the country multiple times during their stay, offering greater freedom to explore Australia’s diverse landscapes and cities.
Due to the high demand for these visas, the Australian government has introduced a ballot system to ensure a fair process. The ballot is open only to first-time applicants from India, China, and Vietnam, and will involve a random selection of participants who will then be invited to proceed with the formal visa application. Those interested will need to register online, with the ballot system set to open by the end of 2024. Once selected, participants must complete their visa applications within a specified time frame.
Applicants must meet several criteria to be eligible for the Subclass 462 visa. These include holding a valid passport, demonstrating English language proficiency, and having completed at least two years of post-secondary education. They must also show proof of sufficient funds to support their initial stay in Australia. The application fee is AUD 650 (approximately ₹36,748), and those chosen in the ballot will need to pay an additional AUD 25 (₹1,400) for registration.
The introduction of the ballot system comes after the AI-ECTA, which came into effect in December 2022, as part of a broader agreement to enhance economic cooperation between Australia and India. The agreement is also expected to benefit trade, education, and technology sectors, with discussions ongoing to expand it into a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA). During a recent visit to Australia, India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the visa programme as a way to foster stronger people-to-people connections between the two countries.
As the 2024-25 programme year approaches, Indian citizens interested in applying for the Work and Holiday visa should stay updated on the Department of Home Affairs website, where registration details and other important information will be published. With only 1,000 spots available each year, competition is expected to be stiff, so early preparation and adherence to the official guidelines will be key to securing a place in the ballot. For those lucky enough to be selected, an unforgettable Australian adventure awaits.
Applicants are strongly advised to rely only on official government sources, such as the Department of Home Affairs, for accurate information regarding the application process and eligibility requirements.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
✈️ Exciting news for young Indians! 🎉 A new Work & Holiday visa ballot allows 18-30-year-olds to live & work in Australia for 12 months. 🇦🇺 Interested? Get ready to apply for your chance at an adventure! 🌏📝 #TheIndianSun #AIECTAhttps://t.co/MP83FN7avD
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) September 30, 2024
Donate To The Indian Sun
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun is an independent organisation committed to community journalism. We have, through the years, been able to reach a wide audience especially with the growth of social media, where we also have a strong presence. With platforms such as YouTube videos, we have been able to engage in different forms of storytelling. However, the past few years, like many media organisations around the world, it has not been an easy path. We have a greater challenge. We believe community journalism is very important for a multicultural country like Australia. We’re not able to do everything, but we aim for some of the most interesting stories and journalism of quality. We call upon readers like you to support us and make any contribution. Do make a DONATION NOW so we can continue with the volume and quality journalism that we are able to practice.
Thank you for your support.
Best wishes,
Team The Indian Sun
