The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), commonly referred to as the 485 Graduate Visa, is a significant opportunity for international students who wish to extend their stay in Australia after completing their studies. This visa allows graduates to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily. It has four different streams, each catering to specific circumstances:
- Graduate Work Stream
- Post-Study Work Stream
- Second Post-Study Work Stream
- Replacement Stream
Depending on the stream you apply for, the duration of your stay and visa costs can vary. This guide provides an in-depth look into the eligibility criteria, application process, and recent changes to the 485 Graduate Visa Australia.
Streams of the Australian 485 Graduate Visa Guide
Graduate Work Stream
The Graduate Work Stream is for international students who have recently graduated with skills and qualifications that relate to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). This visa is generally granted for 18 months, allowing graduates to gain practical experience in their field of study.
Post-Study Work Stream
The Post-Study Work Stream is available to international students who have recently graduated with a higher education degree from an Australian institution. Unlike the Graduate Work Stream, this stream does not require a skills assessment or nomination from the MLTSSL. The visa duration can range from 2 to 4 years, depending on the qualification.
Second Post-Study Work Stream
This stream is for holders of a first post-study work stream visa who graduated from an Australian education institution located in a regional area. It provides an additional stay period, promoting the migration of skilled workers to regional areas.
Replacement Stream
The replacement stream is for current or former holders of a temporary graduate visa who lost time on their original visa due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. This stream aims to compensate for the time lost and allows for an extended stay in Australia.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Temporary Graduate Visa, applicants must meet several conditions:
- Age: You must be under 50 years old.
- Course Completion: You must have completed an eligible CRICOS-registered course.
- Visa History: You must have held a student visa within the last six months.
- Stream Nomination: You must nominate one of the streams at the time of application; changing streams after application is not possible.
English Proficiency Requirements
Applicants need to demonstrate English proficiency unless they hold a valid passport from Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, New Zealand, or the Republic of Ireland. Acceptable tests and scores include the following:
- IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6, with at least 5 in each part.
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum total score of 64, with at least 4 for listening and reading and 14 for writing and speaking.
- PTE Academic: Minimum overall score of 50, with at least 36 in each part.
- OET: At least B in each part.
- Cambridge C1 Advanced: Minimum overall score of 169, with at least 154 in each part.
Recent Changes to the 485 Graduate Visa
As of July 1, 2023, the Australian government has implemented several changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa:
Graduate Work Stream Changes
- Occupation Nomination: A nominated occupation from the MLTSSL is now required. This requirement was not in place for applications lodged between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023.
- Skills Assessment: A provisional skills assessment in the nominated occupation must be submitted at the time of application.
- Cost: The visa application charge has increased to AUD 1,945 for a single applicant.
Application Process
The application process for the 485 Graduate Visa involves several steps:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria for the specific stream you are applying for.
- Gather Documentation: Collect all necessary documents, including proof of English proficiency, skills assessment, and academic qualifications.
- Submit Application: Lodge your application online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays.
- Await Decision: The processing time can vary, so be prepared for a waiting period. You can check the status of your application online.
Cost Breakdown
When planning to apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), it’s essential to consider the associated costs:
- VC485 Temporary Graduate VAC1: The cost for the primary applicant is AUD 1,945.00.
- Additional Applicant Charge (18+): For each additional applicant aged 18 and over, the charge is AUD 975.00.
- Additional Applicant Charge (Under 18): For each additional applicant under 18 years old, the charge is AUD 490.00.
These costs are vital to consider when planning your visa application, as they can significantly impact your budget.
Conclusion
The 485 Graduate Visa Australia is a valuable opportunity for international graduates to extend their stay and gain practical experience in Australia. By understanding the different streams, eligibility criteria, and recent changes, applicants can navigate the process more effectively. Consulting with migration experts can also provide additional guidance and increase the chances of a successful application.
For more detailed information and personalized assistance, consider reaching out to Australian Portal Immigration (API). Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve your immigration goals and ensuring a smooth transition to life in Australia.
