With nearly one million people of Indian heritage living in Australia, this visa initiative is expected to foster even greater cultural and economic exchange between the two countries
Australia’s Working Holiday Maker visa program, launched on October 1, 2024, has received a remarkable response from young Indians. In just two weeks, around 40,000 applications have been submitted for 1,000 available spots, according to Australian Assistant Minister for Immigration, Matt Thistlethwaite. The visa, open to Indians aged 18 to 30, allows them to live, work, and study in Australia for up to 12 months, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between the two nations.
The visa ballot process will close by the end of October, after which successful candidates will be randomly selected. Those chosen will begin their stay in Australia early next year. Thistlethwaite highlighted that this visa offers young Indians the freedom to work in various sectors, from hospitality to agriculture, and provides an opportunity to enhance their English skills or pursue short courses.
Officials confirmed that the Working Holiday Maker program will continue annually, offering more young people a unique chance to experience Australia
“This program gives young Indians a taste of life in Australia, offering a cultural immersion that could encourage them to return later on student or skilled worker visas,” Thistlethwaite noted. He also emphasized that this initiative reflects the deepening partnership between Australia and India, a relationship bolstered by the Australian Prime Minister’s close ties with his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi.
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