If you’ve been dreaming of a trip to Australia, now is an ideal time to make it happen. Australia has launched a new initiative that will allow up to 1,000 Indian citizens, aged 18 to 30, to work and holiday in the country for a year. The program, announced by Australia’s Assistant Minister for Immigration, Matt Thistlethwaite, officially began on September 16, 2024, as part of the Australian Working Holiday Maker scheme.
Program Details and Significance
This initiative is a key component of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA). It enables young Indian citizens to work, holiday, and pursue short-term studies in Australia for up to 12 months. If eligible, participants may apply for a second visa, extending their stay for an additional year. The program has been welcomed as a significant step toward strengthening social and economic ties between the two countries.
India Joins as the 50th Country in the Program
With India’s entry, it becomes the 50th country to join Australia’s Working Holiday Maker program, highlighting the global popularity of this initiative. Beginning October 1, 2024, up to 1,000 multiple-entry visas will be issued annually to Indian citizens. The visa offers a 12-month temporary stay, during which successful applicants can work, holiday, and engage in short-term educational programs in Australia. The Australian High Commission noted that, subject to meeting certain criteria, participants could also apply for a subsequent Work and Holiday visa.
Australian and Indian Officials Express Optimism
The announcement came shortly after Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal concluded a three-day visit to Australia, during which he expressed optimism about the new program. “This program is a key commitment under AI-ECTA, which will improve mobility between the countries and strengthen people-to-people connections,” Goyal stated, emphasizing its role in fostering closer ties.
Application Process and Key Dates
The application window for the Work and Holiday visa is open from October 1 to October 31, 2024. Interested Indian citizens must apply through a visa pre-application ballot process, where selections will be made randomly via a computerized system. The first round of ballots is scheduled between October 14, 2024, and April 30, 2025. The application fee is set at $25, while the visa itself will cost around $650.
Strong Interest Demonstrated in the Program
Assistant Minister Thistlethwaite highlighted the strong interest in the initiative, reporting that over 40,000 applications had already been submitted. He emphasized that the program represents the growing economic partnership between Australia and India, providing a unique opportunity for young people to experience life in another country while contributing to its workforce.
Conclusion
Australia’s new Work and Holiday visa program for Indian citizens marks a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two nations. As the initiative gets underway, it promises to enhance cultural exchange, economic collaboration, and mobility for young Indians eager to explore Australia. With the first round of applicants soon to be selected, the program is set to open new doors for travel, work, and education in a country renowned for its natural beauty and vibrant lifestyle.
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