At Rocket & Ash Immigration Law, we're committed to keeping you updated on the latest immigration policies and legislative changes. Today, we have some significant news for current and future applicants of the Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) visa. The Department of Home Affairs has announced a key change to the Temporary Graduate visa program (Subclass 485), effective July 1, 2024.
What’s New for Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) Applicants?
Age Limit for Masters Degree (Research) and Doctoral Degree (PhD) Graduates:
Previously, the age limit for applying for the Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) visa under the Post-Higher Education Work stream (formerly Post-Study Work stream) was due to be capped at 35 years. We are pleased to inform you that this age limit will be maintained at 50 years. This change follows strong representation by the Migration Institute of Australia (MIA) on behalf of its members. This update ensures that experienced professionals and scholars can continue to contribute their expertise to Australia.
Please note that the limit of 35 years will still be applicable to Batchelor's degree's and Masters Degree (Coursework)
As I’ve previously written about, the following changes are also due to occur:
- Renaming of the Post-Study Work Stream: The post-study work stream (for applications studying a bachelor's or above) is to be renamed the Post-Higher Education Work Stream.
- The Extra 2 Years is Ending: The extra two-year "select degree" extension will be phased out.
- Online Application Enhancements: Improvements to the online application system are expected to streamline the processing, making it faster and more user-friendly for applicants. (The department states that the processing time should decrease to 21 days.) Some of our clients have been waiting 3+ months before receiving a decision.
- Second Post-Study Work Stream: The Second Post-Study Work stream will be renamed the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream.
- Replacement Stream (Subclass 476): This stream has already ceased.
- Graduate Work Stream Renaming: This stream will be renamed the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream.
- Degree-level qualifications cannot apply for the Graduate Stream: Applicants holding a degree-level qualification or higher are no longer eligible for the Graduate Stream and must instead apply through the Post-Higher Education Work stream.
Revised Stay Periods:
The stay periods are being amended to the following:
- Bachelor degree (including honours degrees): up to 2 years
- Masters (coursework and extended): up to 2 years
- Masters (research) and doctoral degree (PhD): up to 3 years.
- Hong Kong and British Overseas Passport Holders: up to 5 years
Revised Stay Periods for Indian Passport Holders:
- Bachelor degree (including honours): up to 2 years
- Bachelor degree (with first-class honours in STEM, including ICT): up to 3 years
- Masters (coursework, extended and research): up to 3 years
- Doctoral degrees (PhD): up to 4 years
We suggest you double check your eligibility before applying for a Subclass 485 graduate visa.
Furthermore, if you have graduated and are eligible to apply now, we suggest you do it, as the current rules will still be applicable.
About Rocket & Ash Immigration Law
At Rocket & Ash Immigration Law, we specialise in helping partners, graduates, and professionals navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law. Our expertise in visa applications ensures that you receive tailored advice and support throughout your immigration journey.
If you require assistance with your Subclass 485 Graduate Visa application or have any other immigration-related queries, our experienced team can help.
Please book a free 15-minute discussion with our team if you have further questions.
Written by Ines Jusufspahic, LPN: 5511366
This article does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. For up-to-date information, please consult an immigration professional.