Australia has officially added India to its Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa program, allowing young Indians to experience Australia while working and holidaying. As of 16 September 2024, India became the 50th country to partner with Australia under the Working Holiday Maker visa program, part of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA).
In the past, India wasn’t part of the program due to a range of factors related to the diplomatic, economic, and immigration policies between the two countries.
But from now on, each year Australia will grant up to 1,000 Work and Holiday visas to eligible Indian citizens aged 18 to 30. This visa allows holders to stay in Australia for up to one year, during which they can work short-term jobs and study for up to four months as well as explore Australia.
There’s also an opportunity to apply for a second Work and Holiday visa if certain conditions are met.
For the 2024-2025 program year, a ballot process will be used for Indian applicants. From 1 October 2024 to 31 October 2024, eligible Indian passport holders can register online to enter the ballot. Random selections will be conducted between 14 October 2024 and 30 April 2025, giving those selected the chance to apply for the Work and Holiday visa.
Applicants will be notified by email if they are selected to proceed. This new visa opportunity gives young Indian citizens the chance to explore Australia while gaining work experience in a vibrant, multicultural environment.
