Embarking on a journey to study in Australia is a significant step, and for international students, the prospect of staying and working in the country afterward is a valuable opportunity. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricate details of the Temporary Graduate Visa, popularly known as the 485 visa in Australia. From eligibility criteria to processing times and recent changes, let’s unravel the essential aspects of this visa that could shape your post-study experience.
Understanding the 485 Visa
The 485 visa serves as a gateway for international students to temporarily reside and work in Australia after completing their studies. Depending on the qualification studied, this visa can be granted for up to four years, with an extended period of five years for Hong Kong passport holders. It encompasses four streams, each catering to specific circumstances and qualifications:
• Graduate Work Stream:
- Designed for graduates with skills and qualifications matching occupations on the eligible skilled occupations list.
- Entitles visa holders to a stay of up to 18 months.
- Key eligibility criteria include age, nominated occupation, English language proficiency, and completion of a relevant degree or qualification.
• Post Study Work Stream:
- Tailored for recent graduates with eligible qualifications, offering a visa for up to four years (or five years for Hong Kong passport holders).
- Criteria involve age, first student visa granted on or after November 5, 2011, completion of an eligible qualification, and English language ability.
- Visa duration varies based on the level of qualification.
• Second Post Study Work Visa Stream:
- Provides an additional stay period for graduates who completed their studies in a regional area.
- Duration depends on both the regional location of the institute and the regional area where the student lived during the first post-study work visa.
• COVID-19 Replacement Stream:
- Introduced for Temporary Graduate visa holders who lost time in Australia due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.
- Offers a replacement 485 visa with eligibility criteria based on the original Temporary Graduate visa and time lost due to travel restrictions.
Key Changes and Updates
The 485 Visa landscape is dynamic, and recent changes have been implemented to enhance the experience for eligible graduates. As of July 2023, the Australian Government has extended the stay for eligible graduates by two years. This extension applies to graduates with select Bachelor and higher-level degrees in areas of skills shortage, as determined by a working group. The specific degrees and effective dates of these changes are yet to be disclosed.
For all PhD qualifications, the Post Study Work (PSW) period will be extended from four years to six years. Similarly, selected Bachelor’s and Master’s degree PSW periods will see extensions. This increase is in addition to regional PSW extensions, providing added benefits for students in regional areas.
Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible for the 485 visa, applicants must
- Be under 50 years of age
- Hold an eligible visa
- Possess a recent qualification in a CRICOS-registered course
- Meet additional requirements based on the chosen stream
Applicants may need to provide evidence of English proficiency through tests like IELTS, and health insurance is recommended. The application process can be completed online through the Department of Home Affairs website, with all required documents ready for submission.
Fees and Processing Time
Understanding the costs associated with the 485 visa is crucial. The fee varies for each type of visa, and the processing time is dependent on the chosen work stream. The Department of Home Affairs provides a comprehensive checklist to guide applicants through the documentation required for a valid visa application.
Conclusion
The 485 visa presents a unique opportunity for international students to extend their stay in Australia, gain valuable work experience, and potentially pave the way for permanent residency. By staying informed about the eligibility criteria, recent changes, and availing support services from Immigration Agent Adelaide, graduates can make the most of their post-study experience Down Under. Whether it’s the Graduate Work Stream, Post Study Work Stream, Second Post Study Work Visa Stream, or the COVID-19 Replacement Stream, the 485 visa opens doors to a world of possibilities for those looking to build their careers in Australia.
