Australia has officially opened the Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa ballot for the 2025/2026 program year. This pre-application process is now live for Indian, Chinese, and Vietnamese nationals, offering young travelers the chance to live, explore, and work in Australia for up to 12 months.
The ballot enrollment period runs from June 24 to July 15, 2025, with the first random draw scheduled for July 16, 2025. Additional selection rounds will be held until April 30, 2026.
What Is the Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) Visa?
The subclass 462 visa allows eligible individuals aged 18 to 30 to visit and work in Australia for up to one year. Part of Australia’s Working Holiday Maker program, it differs from the Subclass 417 visa, which is reserved for citizens of other partner countries.
Key Benefits
- Stay in Australia for up to 12 months
- Work temporarily to fund your trip
- Study for up to four months
- Apply for a second or third visa after meeting specific work conditions
Who Can Apply for the 462 Visa Ballot?
To be eligible for the 2025/2026 ballot, you must:
- Be 18 to 30 years old at the time of enrollment
- Hold a valid passport from China, India, or Vietnam
- Provide an accepted national ID:
- China: Valid National ID
- India: Valid PAN card (Aadhaar not accepted)
- Vietnam: Valid 12-digit ID (9-digit cards not accepted)
- Use a valid email address
- Pay a non-refundable enrollment fee
- Create or log into your ImmiAccount
Applicants may be inside or outside Australia at the time of enrollment. However, if selected, the full visa application must be submitted from outside Australia.
Important: If you turn 31 before submitting the visa application, you are no longer eligible—even if you were selected in the draw.
How to Enroll for the Ballot
Ready to get started? Follow these steps:
- Visit the Department of Home Affairs website
- Select “New Application” > “Visa Pre-Request Enrollment”
- Choose “Enrollment – Work and Holiday Visa (462)” and select your nationality
- Complete the form accurately—draft or incomplete submissions will be skipped
- Pay the non-refundable enrollment fee
- Submit your form by July 15, 2025
Once submitted, your status will show as “Received,” and you’ll be entered into your country’s random ballot pool.
Key Ballot and Visa Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Ballot Opens | June 24, 2025 |
| Ballot Closes | July 15, 2025 |
| First Draw | July 16, 2025 |
| Final Draw Deadline | April 30, 2026 |
| Visa Application Deadline | 28 days from selection email |
What Happens After Entering the Ballot?
If selected, you’ll receive a “Notification of Selection” by email or text. From the moment you are notified, you’ll have 28 days to:
- Submit your full visa application via ImmiAccount
- Upload required documents
- Ensure all details match your initial ballot submission
If you are not selected, you will not receive any notification, and the enrollment fee will not be refunded.
Tip: If you’re close to the age limit, apply quickly after receiving your selection notice to avoid missing your window.
Documents Required if Selected
- Completed visa application in ImmiAccount
- Copy of your valid national ID
- Copy of your passport (include the old passport if recently renewed)
- Matching personal details (must align with your ballot entry)
Inconsistent information can delay processing or lead to visa refusal.
Final Tips for Interested Applicants
- Review eligibility requirements thoroughly before enrolling
- Avoid waiting until the last minute to apply
- If nearing the age cap, act quickly—you get only one chance per year
- Monitor updates on the official immigration website
The Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa offers a rare and exciting chance to explore Australia while funding your stay. With the ballot open now for India, China, and Vietnam, it’s time to gather your documents, submit your entry, and take your first step toward an unforgettable adventure.