New Update (2025-2026) Australia Working Holiday Visa Program: What You Need to Know

skylarkmigrationma
Sep 19
3 min read

Updated: Sep 19

Woman working remotely by a pool, highlighting updates to the Australia Working Holiday Visa Program for 2025-2026.

At Skylark Migration, we’re always keeping a close eye on the latest migration developments. If you're a young traveller considering a Working Holiday or Work and Holiday visa for Australia, there have been some important changes that could impact your plans.

Here’s a breakdown of the key updates to the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program for 2025–2026.

462 Visa Ballot Now Open for China, India and Vietnam

From 24 June to 15 July 2025, eligible passport holders from China, India and Vietnam can register for the Subclass 462 Work and Holiday visa ballot for the 2025–2026 program year.

This ballot system is a mandatory pre-application step. Only those selected through the random draw will be invited to apply for the visa. Indian citizens, for example, will have access to 1,000 first-time visa places this year.

For full details, visit the official Work and Holiday (subclass 462) visa pre-application process.

New Postcodes Added for Disaster Recovery Work

As of 5 April 2025, the list of eligible areas for specified work has been expanded to include more postcodes affected by natural disasters such as bushfires, floods and cyclones.

This update applies to both Subclass 417 and Subclass 462 visa applications lodged on or after that date, or to applications already lodged but not yet decided. Work completed in these areas may count towards the specified work requirement needed for a second or third WHM visa.

The government has acknowledged the valuable role Working Holiday Makers play in supporting recovery efforts. For a full list of eligible postcodes, refer to the Specified Work page.

India Officially Joins the 462 Program

India became the 50th Working Holiday Maker partner country on 16 September 2024 under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA).

Eligible Indian citizens aged 18 to 30 can register in the 462 visa ballot and, if selected, apply for their first Work and Holiday visa. This visa allows them to work, travel and undertake short-term study in Australia for up to 12 months. Those who meet specific work requirements may apply for a second or third visa.

UK Nationals See Major Changes Under the Australia–UK Free Trade Agreement

As of 1 July 2024, UK passport holders applying for a second or third Working Holiday visa are no longer required to complete specified work.

Additionally, UK citizens can now apply for a first Working Holiday visa up to the age of 35. These changes were made under the Australia–UK Free Trade Agreement and apply only to UK nationals.

Other partner countries remain subject to the existing arrangements unless new agreements are signed.

Six-Month Work Limitation Still Applies

All Working Holiday Makers are still subject to visa condition 8547, which limits employment with any one employer to six months. However, exemptions do exist for certain industries or roles, and written permission can be requested if your situation qualifies.

More information is available on the Visa Condition 8547 page.

Processing Delays and What to Expect

Due to a high volume of applications, the Department of Home Affairs has reported delays in visa processing. Each application is assessed individually, and processing times may vary.

It is strongly advised not to make travel arrangements until you have received written confirmation that your visa has been granted.

Message from the Skylark Team

These changes reflect the Australian Government’s continued focus on managing migration demand, supporting regional labour shortages, and encouraging international engagement through bilateral agreements.

If you’re unsure how these updates affect your application or future migration goals, we’re here to help. Whether you need assistance with ballot registration, understanding specified work eligibility, or planning a long-term pathway from a Working Holiday visa to something more permanent, feel free to get in touch.

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