In addition to India, Australia is extending the visa ballot process to citizens from China and Vietnam
Australia has introduced a new ‘First Work and Holiday visa,’ offering Indian citizens aged 18 to 30 the opportunity to explore, work, and study in the country for up to one year. Under this program, which begins in October 2024, Australia will grant up to 1,000 visas annually to eligible Indian passport holders.
Indian citizens can participate in a visa pre-application ballot process, which will run from October 1 to October 31. The Australian immigration authorities will then conduct random selections from October 14, 2024, to April 30, 2025.
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Assistant Minister for Immigration Matt Thistlethwaite emphasized the benefits of the visa for young Indian travelers, noting that around 40,000 individuals have already entered the ballot
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“This visa provides a unique opportunity for young Indians to experience Australian culture while contributing to the local economy,” he stated
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Health and character checks will be part of the eligibility process to ensure the safety and suitability of applicants
Selected applicants will be notified via email and given the opportunity to apply for the visa, which costs AUD 650. Additionally, applicants must pay AUD 25 to enter the ballot.
This visa, classified as the Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa, allows holders to work or study for short periods while enjoying their holiday in Australia. The initiative is seen as a significant step in strengthening the economic and cultural ties between Australia and India, following the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA). India joined the Working Holiday Maker program as its 50th partner country on September 16, 2024.
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