Australia’s New Working Holiday Visa 40,000 Application 1000 selected
40,000 Indians Compete for 1,000 Working Holiday Maker Visa Spots in Australia
According to recent reports, Australian Assistant Minister for Immigration Matt Thistlethwaite revealed that nearly 40,000 Indians have applied for only 1,000 positions under Australia’s new Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa.
This visa allows eligible applicants aged 18 to 30 to study, work, or travel in Australia for up to 12 months.
Ballot Process Now Open
The WHM ballot opened on October 1 and will remain active until the end of the month.
During this period, applicants can submit their registration.
After the ballot closes, the Australian government will randomly select applicants.
Those chosen will then apply for a temporary visa and can begin their stay in Australia early next year.
Massive Interest From Indian Youth
So far, the Australian government has received 40,000 applications for the 1,000 available spots.
According to Minister Thistlethwaite, the program allows young Indians to explore different jobs without restrictions.
Most participants are expected to work in hospitality or agriculture.
However, many applicants also plan to take short courses or improve their English skills.
The minister added that the visa creates opportunities for cultural exchange and valuable work experience.
He also expressed hope that these visitors may return later as students or skilled workers.
Australia’s Prime Minister echoed this view, stating that the program offers young Indians “a taste of life in Australia,” which may encourage long-term immigration in the future.
Strengthening India–Australia Relations
Thistlethwaite emphasized the growing bond between India and Australia.
He noted that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese worked closely with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi to expand opportunities for youth in both countries.
An official also confirmed that the WHM program will run every year.
New Arrangements for the 2024–2025 Program Year
Beginning October 1, 2024, Australia introduced a new pre-application process for high-demand Work and Holiday (subclass 462) partner countries.
The first ballots for China, Vietnam, and India opened on the same day.
Each participating country will have its own ballot every year.
Registration periods may vary, depending on the agreement between Australia and each partner country.
These arrangements do not affect the annual WHM limits, which remain part of bilateral agreements.
Eligibility Requirements for the Ballot
To enter the ballot, applicants must:
- Create an ImmiAccount
- Be 18–30 years old
- Hold a valid passport from an eligible country
- Provide a valid national identity card
- For Indian applicants, this is the PAN card
- For Vietnamese applicants, only the 12-digit ID is accepted
- Have a verified email address
- Agree to the registration declarations
- Pay a AUD 25 registration fee
Applicants can register from inside or outside Australia.
However, if selected, they must lodge the visa application from outside Australia.
How to Register for the Ballot
Eligible Indian, Chinese, and Vietnamese passport holders can register by completing the Visa pre-application registration in ImmiAccount:
- Log in and click Registration – Work and Holiday Visa (462)
- Select your passport country
- Fill out the form
- Pay the AUD 25 fee
- Submit the registration
After You Register
Once you verify your email and submit the form, your registration enters the ballot automatically.
You will receive an acknowledgment email confirming that your form was received.
Inside your ImmiAccount, you can:
- View or edit your registration
- Update your details if needed
- Check your status: received or selected
Start Your Australian Journey
If you want to understand your eligibility or need help completing the process, our experts can guide you.
Reach out to SPS Global today to plan your Australian immigration journey with confidence.
Get in touch with SPS Global
Receive advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. Get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).
