Good news for young Indians who want to live abroad for a while. Austria has opened its Working Holiday programme to Indians between 18 and 30 years of age.

With this visa, you can travel around Austria, do a short-term job and even join some courses while you are there. The idea is to let young people stay in a new country, learn the language, meet people and understand how life works there.

Do not think of it as a regular job visa, though. Work and study are not the main purpose. The programme is meant for travel and cultural experience. The job or course just helps you earn a little and learn something extra during your stay.

Which countries can apply?

India is one of 12 countries and territories that Austria has signed this agreement with. The full list is :

No African country is on this list right now. The scheme is not open to everyone. Only people from these countries, who have an agreement with Austria, can apply.

How to apply from India

If you are an Indian citizen, you need to contact the Austrian embassy or consulate in India to start the process. They will tell you what to do next.

Being 18 to 30 and holding an Indian passport does not mean your visa is sure to come. The Austrian authorities will check your application and take the final call.

For Austrian citizens going abroad

Austria has also shared how its own people can use similar programmes in other countries. They have to contact the embassy or consulate of the country they want to visit, in Vienna. Every country sets its own rules, so what applies to Austrians going abroad can be different from what applies to Indians going to Austria.

One thing to remember

Rules and papers can change. Before you plan your trip or book tickets, check the latest conditions and the list of documents with the Austrian embassy or consulate.

Want to know if you qualify for Austria’s Working Holiday visa? Get step-by-step help with your application and the latest visa updates with Visabud.