Key Points
- For the first time, young people from India will have the opportunity to work and support their travels in Australia.
- A 'ballot' system has been introduced for first-time Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa applicants from India, China and Vietnam.
- A migration expert urges applicants to 'do their research' about this visa.
The Australian government recently announced a introducing a pre-application 'ballot' process for applicants from India, China and Vietnam for the 2024-25 program year.
As a result, Indian citizens aged 18 to 30 will be able to apply for Subclass 462 visas, valid for 12 months, provided they meet the necessary eligibility requirements.
Interested individuals can register for the ballot by submitting an online form through
The Work and Holiday visa allows people aged 18 to 30 years old to have an extended holiday in Australia and work here to help fund their trip. Source: SBS
Those selected will be notified and provided with a specific time frame in which to complete the application process.
The Department of Home Affairs said: "Registrations for the first Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa ballots for China, Vietnam, and India will open later in 2024."
Signage for the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs is seen in Melbourne. (Representative image) Credit: JAMES ROSS/AAPIMAGE
"Within two years of the AI-ECTA entering into force, Australia will allow eligible Indian citizens aged between 18 and 30 to apply for a Work and Holiday visa to visit Australia for one year. They can undertake short-term work and study while holidaying," the said.
Indian Minister Piyush Goyal also expressed his support for the news in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
Indian minister Piyush Goyal's tweet on X (formerly Twitter). Credit: X (Twitter)
This visa is available to individuals aged 18 to 30, enabling them to travel and work in Australia.
Applicants can study for up to four months, travel in and out of the country multiple times, and take on short-term jobs to support their adventures.
Australia has agreed to extend access to the Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa to up to 1,000 Indian citizens each year. Credit: SolStock/Getty Images
Other requirements include funds, educational qualifications and proficiency in English. The application fee is $650.
The warning
Migration expert Vaibhav Patel described the news as an "exciting opportunity" for young "backpackers" eager to explore Australia and immerse themselves in its culture and work environment.
"This visa differs from a tourist visa because Subclass 462 includes working rights, allowing you to work and support your travels while you're here," he explained.
Subclass 462 visa holders can do short-term work in Australia and study for up to four months. Credit: Thurtell/Getty Images
However, he warned applicants to be cautious of possible misinformation surrounding this visa, advising them to consult a registered migration expert or conduct thorough research before applying.
"We anticipate a high number of applications for this visa, and I hope clear information will be available since it's a new program for Indians. I strongly recommend that people do their research, and if they choose to work with a migration agent, they should ensure that agent is registered," Patel said.
Former immigration official Abul Rizvi added that while there is always a risk of exploitation, the Department of Home Affairs website has made it clear that this visa will be subject to a ballot, reducing the need for most applicants to use an agent to enter the process.
LISTEN TO
South Australia opens permanent residency pathway for skilled workers across over 400 occupations
SBS Hindi
06/09/202407:07
"Most applicants would not need an agent to enter the ballot. The work areas are unrestricted unless the applicants seeks a further Subclass 462 in which case work in regional Australia is required," he said.
Rizvi disagreed with Patel on the likelihood the program will be expanded while net migration continues to exceed government forecasts.
(Disclaimer: The information given in this interview is of general nature. This information may not be appropriate for your personal circumstances - contact a suitable expert for clear advice on your visa condition.)
Find our podcasts here at . You can also tune in to at 5pm on on digital radio, on channel 305 on your television, via the or stream from .
