Australia to Offer 1,000 Work and Holiday Visas to Indian Citizens from October 2024
Starting October 2024, Australia will offer 1,000 Work and Holiday visas annually to Indian citizens as part of the AI-ECTA agreement. This visa allows young Indians to work, study, and explore Australia for up to one year.
Starting October 1, 2024, Australia will begin offering up to 1,000 Work and Holiday visas (Subclass 462) each year to Indian citizens. This initiative is part of the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), which came into effect in December 2022.
Key Announcement During Minister’s Visit
India’s commerce and industry minister, Piyush Goyal, announced the launch during his recent visit to Australia from September 23-26. He highlighted the Work and Holiday visa as a significant step towards enhancing people-to-people connections between the two countries.
“Happy to learn that the Work and Holiday visa, a key commitment under the AI-ECTA, will be operational from October 1, 2024. This will facilitate mobility and deepen the ties between our citizens,” Goyal stated in a social media post.
Strengthening Economic Ties
During Goyal’s visit, both sides reviewed the progress of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) and discussed the implementation of AI-ECTA initiatives. Meetings with business leaders from both countries also aimed to boost trade and investment ties.
Australia Work And Holiday Visa
The Work and Holiday visa is available for Indian nationals aged 18 to 30. This visa allows applicants to work, study, and explore Australia for up to one year. Australia will offer 1,000 multiple-entry visas annually for temporary stays of up to 12 months.
To be eligible for the Work and Holiday visa, applicants must meet specific requirements outlined by Australian legislation;
Eligibility Requirements:
Age: 18 to 30 years old.
Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen.
Health and Character: Must meet Australian health and character standards.
Education: Should qualify equivalent to Australian standards.
Financial Requirements: Must show proof of sufficient funds to support the initial stay in Australia.
Language Proficiency: English language skills may be required, depending on the individual case.
Annual Quota: Australia will grant up to 1,000 multiple entry Work and Holiday visas to Indian citizens each year.
Eligibility: Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old and meet the specific eligibility criteria outlined by Australian immigration authorities.
Duration: The visa allows for a temporary stay of twelve calendar months.
Flexibility: The visa provides holders with the freedom to explore Australia’s diverse regions and engage in various work and study opportunities.
Application Process
The Work and Holiday visa application process involves submitting an online application, providing necessary documents, paying the visa fee, attending a biometric appointment, and waiting for a decision. The processing time may vary, so it’s recommended to apply well in advance.
Create an ImmiAccount to start your online application.
Choose the “Work and Holiday” visa option.
Follow the instructions and provide the necessary information and documentation.
2. Document Preparation:
Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
Health Declaration: Complete the health declaration form and provide any required medical examinations or certificates.
Character Certificate: Obtain a character certificate from the relevant authorities in India.
3. Financial Evidence: Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Australia. This may include bank statements, proof of employment, or other financial documents.
4. Visa Fee: Pay the required visa application fee online using a credit or debit card.
5. Biometric Information: Attend a visa application center or Australian embassy/consulate to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).
6. Processing Time: The visa processing time may vary depending on the number of applications and individual circumstances. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.
7. Visa Grant or Refusal: After assessing your application, Australian authorities will inform you of their decision. You will receive a visa grant notification if your application is successful or a refusal letter with reasons if it is not.
Additional Tips
Research: Learn about the different work and study opportunities available in Australia.
Plan Ahead: Book your flights and accommodation well in advance.
Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.
Cultural Awareness: Familiarize yourself with Australian culture and customs.
By following these steps and meeting the eligibility criteria, you can increase your chances of obtaining an Australian Work and Holiday visa and embarking on an unforgettable adventure.
Ballot System for Work and Holiday Visa
Starting in the 2024-25 program year, Australia will implement a ballot system for the Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa for high-demand countries, including China, Vietnam, and India. The ballot system is designed to ensure fairness by randomly selecting applicants when visa demand exceeds availability.
Applicants must register for the ballot by paying a non-refundable fee of AUD 25. A computer will then randomly select individuals from the pool of registrants. Those selected will receive an invitation to apply for their first Work and Holiday visa online.
Final Thoughts
The Work and Holiday visa for Indian citizens marks a significant milestone in the India-Australia relationship. It opens doors for young Indians to explore new opportunities while fostering closer cultural and economic ties between the two nations.
With the visa set to begin in October 2024, interested applicants are encouraged to start preparing now.
Manish Khandelwal, a travel-tech enthusiast with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Travelobiz.com, he's passionate about writing.
