Exploring the Benefits of the 485 Temporary Graduate Visa in Australia
Completing your studies as an international student in Australia opens up a world of possibilities. One of the key advantages is the opportunity to stay, work, and further your education through the Temporary Graduate Visa. This visa allows you to continue your journey in Australia once you’ve graduated. Let’s delve into the details and eligibility criteria for this visa, along with its various streams.
Basic Eligibility Criteria To be eligible for the Temporary Graduate Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be under the age of 50.
- Hold an eligible visa.
- Have held a student visa in the last six months.
- Possess a recent qualification from a CRICOS-registered course.
- Nominate only one stream – changing streams after applying is not possible.
- Provide specified evidence when applying.
Graduate Work Stream This stream is designed for international students who have recently graduated with qualifications that Australia requires in specific occupations. With this visa, you can live, study, and work in Australia temporarily. The standard stay period is up to 18 months, but for applications submitted before September 2, 2023, the stay period is extended to 24 months. If you’re a Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport holder, you may stay for up to 5 years.
Post-Study Work Stream If you’ve graduated with a degree from an Australian institution, the Post-Study Work Stream is your ideal choice. It allows you to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily. The duration of your stay typically ranges from 2 to 4 years, depending on your qualification. Certain select degree holders may even be eligible for an extended 2-year stay. It’s worth noting that Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders have the option to stay for 5 years.
Second Post-Study Work Stream The Second Post-Study Work Stream is for those who’ve completed their education in regional areas of Australia. The length of your stay, which ranges from 1 to 4 years, depends on the location of your educational institution and your current regional area of residence. Select degree holders in this stream may also qualify for an additional 2-year extension.
Replacement Stream The Replacement Stream is designed for current and former Temporary Graduate visa holders who experienced interruptions due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. The stay period under this stream typically falls between 18 months and 6 years, matching the grant period of your previous visa. However, those with select degrees may be eligible for an extra 2 years of stay.
Bringing Your Family One of the appealing features of the Temporary Graduate Visa is that you can include your spouse or children in your application, even if you haven’t done so previously.
Work Opportunities Under this visa, you can work in Australia, provided you have a qualification relevant to an occupation on the skilled occupation list. Note that this is not required for applications submitted between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023.
Applying Outside Australia Graduates affected by COVID-19 travel restrictions are now allowed to apply for and be granted a Temporary Graduate Visa even if they are outside Australia, provided they hold or have held an eligible Student visa.
If you’re an international student looking to extend your stay in Australia, the Temporary Graduate Visa is your gateway to new opportunities. Whether you aim to gain work experience or pursue further education, this visa has you covered. Explore your options and embark on the next chapter of your Australian adventure.
