Australia Opens 2026–27 Work and Holiday Visa Ballot for Indians from June 4

Young Indians dreaming of living, working, and travelling in Australia will soon have another opportunity to secure a coveted Work and Holiday visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has announced that registrations for the 2026–27 Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa ballot will open on June 4, 2026, introducing eligible applicants to a pre-application registration process before they can lodge a visa application.
The ballot system applies to first-time Subclass 462 applicants from India, China, and Vietnam, where demand significantly exceeds the annual visa allocation. Eligible candidates must register online through ImmiAccount and pay a AUD 25 registration fee to enter the ballot. Successful applicants will then receive an invitation to submit a full visa application.
According to the Department of Home Affairs, registrations for the 2026–27 program year will remain open until June 25, 2026, giving applicants a three-week window to enter the ballot. Random selections will be conducted throughout the program year, with registrations remaining valid until the annual program closes.
India officially joined Australia’s Working Holiday Maker program in September 2024 under the Australia–India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA). Each program year, up to 1,000 first Work and Holiday visas can be granted to eligible Indian citizens aged 18 to 30.
The Subclass 462 visa allows successful applicants to stay in Australia for up to 12 months, undertake short-term work to support their travels, and study for a limited period during their stay.
Key Dates for the 2026–27 Ballot
• Registrations Open: June 4, 2026
• Registrations Close: June 25, 2026
• Registration Fee: AUD 25
• Eligible Countries: India, China, and Vietnam
• Indian Annual Allocation: 1,000 places
• Age Requirement: 18–30 years (inclusive)
Prospective applicants are advised to ensure their passport details, national identity documents, and ImmiAccount information are up to date before registrations open
The 2026-27 Work and Holiday Visa ballot offers Indian citizens a chance to live, work, and explore Australia. The time is now to get ready and make your dream a reality.

Source: Australian Department of Home Affairs – Work and Holiday Visa Pre-Application Process