New Visa Update: From October 1, 2024, Australia will start granting Work and Holiday visas (subclass 462) up to 1,000 every year to Indian citizens. The initiative is part of the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), which came into force in December 2022. Key Announcements during Minister's Visit India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced its launch during his recent visit to Australia from 23-26 September. He described the Work and Holiday Visa as an important step towards increasing people-to-people contacts between the two countries.
“Pleased to note that Work and Holiday Visa, a key commitment under AI-ECTA, will become operational from October 1, 2024,” Goyal said in a social media post. This will facilitate transportation and deepen relations between our citizens.”
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. The meetings with business leaders from both countries also aimed to boost trade and investment ties.
Australia Work and Holiday Visa Work and Holiday Visa is available to Indian citizens aged 18 to 30 years. This visa allows applicants to work, study and explore Australia for up to one year. Australia will provide 1,000 multiple-entry visas annually for temporary stays of up to 12 months.
To be eligible for a work and holiday visa, applicants must meet specific requirements outlined by Australian law;
eligibility requirements:
age: 18 to 30 years.
nationality: Must be an Indian citizen.
Health and Character: Must meet Australian health and character standards.
Education: Must have qualifications equivalent to Australian standards.
Financial Requirements: Proof of sufficient funds must be shown for initial migration to Australia.
language proficiency: English language skills may be required depending on the individual case.
Key points about work and holiday visas
Annual Quota: Australia will grant up to 1,000 multiple-entry work and holiday visas to Indian nationals each year.
Eligibility: Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years of age and must meet specific eligibility criteria set by Australian immigration authorities.
Duration: The visa allows a temporary stay of twelve calendar months.
resilience: This visa gives holders the freedom to visit diverse areas of Australia and engage in a variety of work and study opportunities.
application process
The working and holiday visa application process involves submitting the online application, providing the required documents, paying the visa fee, attending a biometric appointment and waiting for the decision. Processing times may vary, so it is advisable to apply in advance.
1. Online Application:
- Visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
- Create an ImmiAccount to begin your online application.
- Select the “Work and Leave” visa option.
- Follow the instructions and provide the necessary information and documents.
2. Document Preparation:
Passport: Valid passport with a validity of at least six months.
Health Declaration: Fill out the Health Declaration Form and provide the necessary medical examination or certificate.
Character Certificate: Obtain character certificate from the relevant authorities in India.
3. Financial Proof: Show that you have enough money to support yourself while you are 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: Visit a Visa Application Center or Australian Embassy/Consulate to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photo).
6. Processing Time: Visa processing times 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 Approval or Rejection: After assessing your application, the Australian authorities will inform you of their decision. You will receive a visa approval notification if your application is successful or a rejection letter with reasons if it is not successful.