Effective 16 September 2024, the Australian government has introduced significant changes to visa eligibility for Indian nationals through the Migration Amendment (Arrangements for Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) Visa Applications) Instrument (LIN 24/059).
Under this visa arrangement, Indian nationals must meet several eligibility criteria:
- Hold a valid Indian passport.
- Be aged between 18 and 30 at the time of application.
- Have successfully completed at least two years of post-secondary education.
- Have a level of functional English proficiency.
- Have sufficient funds to support their stay in Australia and meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government.
This latest development allows Indian passport holders to apply for the Subclass 462 (Work and Holiday) visa under revised conditions aimed at promoting greater youth mobility between the two countries.
Key aspects of this amendment include the removal of the requirement for Indian applicants to provide evidence of support from the Indian government, a mandate that applicants must have completed at least two years of post-secondary education, and the introduction of a pre-application ballot system for high-demand countries, including India.
This change follows the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), reinforcing bilateral ties and expanding opportunities for young citizens of both countries to engage in cultural and professional exchanges.
Starting from 2024-2025, applicants from countries such as India, China, and Vietnam will be required to enter a pre-application ballot system. Only those selected from the ballot will be able to submit a formal Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa application.
This new system aims to regulate the high demand and ensure a fairer process for all applicants. A $25 fee will be charged for entering the ballot, but it does not guarantee a visa application.
Visa holders will be allowed to stay in Australia for up to 12 months, undertake employment, and engage in study or training for up to four months during their stay.
The changes reflect ongoing efforts to strengthen people-to-people connections between Australia and India, in line with the broader objectives of the AI-ECTA. By facilitating youth mobility and work opportunities, the visa program is expected to foster deeper cultural and professional exchanges.
Further details on the implementation of the ballot system and specific timelines for its opening will be provided by the Department of Home Affairs in due course.
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