Australia’s 2025-26 Work and Holiday (462) Visa Ballot
Dreaming of gap-year travel, short-term work, and study in Australia? The Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa lets Indians aged 18-30 live Down Under for up to 12 months, with the option to earn a second or even third visa after eligible regional work. Demand is sky-high: last year more than 98,000 Indians vied for only 1 000 places, so Canberra now runs a ballot to keep things fair. If you plan to join the 2025-26 draw, read on for everything you need to know.
What exactly is the Subclass 462 visa?
The 462 visa is a bilateral youth-mobility scheme. Holders can:
live in Australia for up to a year
work most jobs for up to six months per employer
study for up to four months
apply for a second or third 462 visa by completing specified regional work on farms, in hospitality, tourism, construction, or flood recovery zones.
Only 1 000 first-time visas are available to Indian citizens each programme year.
Why a ballot rather than “first-come, first-served”?
Previously, the visa opened at midnight and crashed within minutes. The ballot, launched in October 2024, gives every eligible registrant a random, equal chance—no need for lightning-fast internet or costly migration agents.
Key dates for 2025-26
Registration window: 24 June – 15 July 2025 (Australian Eastern Standard Time). Late entries are not accepted.
First selection: 16 July 2025.
Further draws: Unscheduled rounds take place until the pool closes on 30 April 2026. If you are not picked in July your entry remains active for later rounds.
Costs you need to budget
Ballot registration fee: AUD 25 – Pay when submitting the online entry.
Visa application charge: About AUD 640 – Pay only if you receive an invitation and lodge the visa.
Savings required as evidence: Minimum AUD 5,000 – Show when applying for the visa, not during the ballot.
Eligibility checklist for Indian applicants
Tick every box before you register:
Age 18-30 (you must apply before your 31st birthday).
Passport Valid Indian passport.
National ID PAN number (Aadhaar is not accepted).
Education At least two years of tertiary study.
English Functional level—usually IELTS 4.5 overall or higher, or specified alternatives.
Funds Proof of AUD 5,000 plus return airfare savings.
Health & character Meet Australia’s medical and police requirements.
First-time applicant Never held a 462 or 417 visa before.
After the ballot: what next?
Selected? You will receive an email titled “Notification of Selection”. You then have 28 days to lodge a full visa application online, upload documents, and pay the visa charge. You must be outside Australia when you apply.
Not selected? No email. Your status stays “Received” and rolls into every subsequent draw until 30 April 2026. If the year ends without selection your entry simply expires.
Missing the 28-day application window voids your invitation, so prepare documents now.
Ready to try your luck?
The 2025-26 Work and Holiday ballot is a golden chance to live and work in Australia but timing and accuracy are critical. Visamigo’s migration specialists can:
guide you through ImmiAccount registration
pre-check your eligibility and documents
lodge your full visa application within the tight 28-day window if you are selected
Questions? Email ask@visamigo.com for a chat.
Contact Information
Phone: +61 439184999
Website: visamigo.com.au
DISCLAIMER: Important notice for all our social media followers as well as website readers. Content shared here by Visamigo Lawyers and its affiliates is not to be considered as immigration or legal advice. It's intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional guidance. This material offers general insights (accurate at the time of posting, subject to updates) and is not exhaustive. Prior to any application, it's recommended you consult an Australian Lawyer for personalised advice. Your journey matters, so ensure you're properly informed.
