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 citizens of China, India, and Vietnam, offering young travellers a chance to live, explore and work in Australia for up to a year.
The ballot registration period runs from 24 June 2025 to 15 July 2025, and the first random draw will take place on 16 July 2025. Additional selection rounds will be held through to 30 April 2026.
What Is the Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) Visa?
The Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa allows eligible young adults aged 18 to 30 to travel and work in Australia for up to 12 months. It’s part of Australia’s Working Holiday Maker program and is different from the Subclass 417 visa, which targets a different group of partner countries.
Key benefits:
- Stay in Australia for up to 12 months
- Work temporarily to fund your travel
- Study for up to 4 months
- Apply for a second or third visa after meeting specific work conditions
👉 Learn more about Australian working holiday options in our Work Abroad Guide.
Who Is Eligible for the 462 Visa Ballot?
To register for the 2025–2026 ballot, you must meet all of the following:
- Be aged 18 to 30 (inclusive) at the time of registration
- Hold a valid passport from China, India, or Vietnam
- Have the correct national ID:
- China: Valid National ID
- India: Valid PAN card (Aadhar not accepted)
- Vietnam: Valid 12-digit ID (old 9-digit cards not valid)
- Have a verified email address
- Pay a non-refundable AUD 25 registration fee
- Create or log in to your ImmiAccount
- Be located inside or outside Australia while registering, but must apply from outside Australia if selected
📌 Important: If you turn 31 before applying, you’re no longer eligible, even if selected in the draw.
How to Register for the Ballot
Ready to take the first step? Here’s how to register:
- Visit the official registration page: Go to the Department of Home Affairs website and select ‘New Application’ > ‘Visa pre-application registration’.
- Choose your country: Select ‘Registration – Work and Holiday Visa (462)’ and pick your eligible country.
- Fill in your details: Complete the form carefully—any errors or incomplete drafts will be ignored.
- Pay the fee: Submit the non-refundable AUD 25 registration fee.
- Submit before the deadline: All registrations must be completed by 15 July 2025.
🛑 Draft or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Once submitted, your application 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 | 24 June 2025 |
| Ballot Closes | 15 July 2025 |
| First Draw Date | 16 July 2025 |
| Final Draw Date | 30 April 2026 |
| Visa Application Window (if selected) | 28 days from email notification |
What Happens After You Enter the Ballot?
- If selected, you’ll receive a ‘Notification of Selection’ email
- You’ll have 28 days to apply for the actual visa via ImmiAccount
- If not selected, you won’t be contacted
- No refund of the AUD 25 fee will be issued
🕒 Tip: If you’re already 30, apply ASAP once selected to avoid ageing out before lodging your visa.
Documents Required if Selected
If you receive a selection notification, prepare the following quickly:
- Complete your visa application in ImmiAccount
- Upload a copy of your national ID
- Upload a copy of your passport (include old passport if recently renewed)
- Ensure all personal details match your ballot registration
- Mismatched information may result in rejection or processing delays
Final Tips for Aspiring Travellers
- Double-check your eligibility criteria before applying
- Don’t wait until the last minute to submit
- If you’re on the edge of the age limit, be proactive—you only have one chance per year
- Follow updates on the official website
Final Thoughts
The Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa offers an unforgettable chance to explore Australia while funding your adventure. With the ballot system now open for China, India, and Vietnam, it’s time to get your documents ready, submit your application, and cross your fingers.
For more updates on working holiday programs, Australia travel news, or other visa guides, check out our Visa Updates and Work Abroad Section.
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