With effect from July 1, 2024, Australia's Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) program will undergo major modifications as part of the government's effort to improve the assimilation of foreign students into the workforce.
For recent graduates from Australian educational institutions, the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) provides a chance to stay in the nation for a few years following their studies. As a result, they can obtain professional experience in their particular industries.
Important Updates
The Graduate Work Stream (now known as the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream) and the Post-study Work Stream have both undergone changes as part of the Temporary Graduate Visa program:
Age Requirement for Eligibility
In keeping with the program's emphasis on skill development, applicants to the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream must be 35 years of age or younger as of July 1, 2024. Passengers under 50 who own Hong Kong or British National Overseas passports are exempt.
Simplifying Streams
There are now two primary streams in the system:
Workstream for Post-Vocational Education: Designed for holders of trade certificates, associate degrees, or diplomas that are in line with Australia's Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
The Post-Higher Education Work Stream is intended for those who have completed their doctorates (PhDs), master's degrees (including coursework and research), and bachelor's degrees.
The post-study work visa's duration
Extended work privileges are provided via the Post-Higher Education Work Stream:
Bachelor's degree holders with first-class honors in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects may take up to three years to complete their program.
Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement, up to 4 years for PhD graduates (AI-ECTA).
Foreign graduates can only stay for a maximum of two years for bachelor's degrees and three years for doctoral degrees.
Time to Apply
Students who are sincere about learning and making a contribution to society are welcomed in Australia. The development of abilities and luring individuals to fill positions in great demand are prioritized. It is essential to have strong evidence proving that you are a real student.
Requirements for Student Visas
Australia has tightened its financial requirements for student visas starting of May 10, 2024. To qualify for a visa, international students must show that they have at least A$29,710 in savings. This is the second increase in the financial requirements in a span of seven months, with the first one occurring in October 2023.
Immigration and Education Reform
Australia's revisions are in line with international trends, as nations like the UK and Canada are combining immigration laws with their educational systems. Anyone thinking about studying abroad has to be aware of these developments.
Make sure the program you have chosen fits both Australia's skill criteria and your career goals by researching the new visa requirements. You can take advantage of these developments to start a lucrative career in Australia with cautious preparation.
