The Australian Government has introduced new rules for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) effective from 1 July 2024. These changes are crucial for Masters and PhD students planning to stay and work in Australia. This blog highlights the key updates and their implications.
Key Changes for Masters and PhD Students
Re-alignment of Visa Streams
- Post-Vocational Education Work Stream: For associate degrees, diplomas, or trade qualifications related to occupations on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Post-Higher Education Work Stream: For higher education qualifications such as bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Age Limit Adjustments
The maximum eligible age for the Temporary Graduate visa has been reduced from 50 to 35 years. However, exceptions include:
- Masters (Research) and Doctoral Degree (PhD) Graduates: Eligible up to 50 years.
- Hong Kong and BNO Passport Holders: Eligible up to 50 years.
Stay Duration Adjustments
The duration of stay for the Temporary Graduate visa has been updated as follows:
| Qualification Level | Standard Stay Duration | Hong Kong and BNO Passport Holders | Indian Nationals (under AI-ECTA) |
| Bachelor degree (including honours) | Up to 2 years | Up to 5 years | Up to 2 years |
| Bachelor degree (with first class honours in STEM) | - | Up to 5 years | Up to 3 years |
| Masters (coursework and extended) | Up to 2 years | Up to 5 years | Up to 3 years |
| Masters (research) | Up to 3 years | Up to 5 years | Up to 3 years |
| Doctoral degree (PhD) | Up to 3 years | Up to 5 years | Up to 4 years |
Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream
The Second Post-Study Work stream is renamed to the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream with no other changes.
Replacement Stream
The Replacement stream will be discontinued.
Implications for Masters and PhD Students
These changes are designed to streamline the visa application process, making it more efficient for postgraduate students to stay and work in Australia. The tailored stay durations under the new rules are particularly beneficial for Masters and PhD graduates.
What You Should Do Next
- Review Eligibility: Familiarize yourself with the new criteria and stay durations.
- Prepare Documentation: Ensure all your documents, including proof of qualifications, are in order.
- Seek Professional Advice: Consult a registered migration agent to understand the changes and optimize your application process.
Conclusion
The 2024 visa updates present new opportunities for postgraduate students, including extended stay durations and specific age limit exceptions for Masters and PhD graduates. Staying informed and preparing accordingly will help you make the most of these new rules.
Considering a move to Australia or need assistance with your visa application? Book a consultation with our experienced Registered Migration Agents. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the Migration Program and take your first step towards a promising future in Australia.
Remember:
This post is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional immigration advice. Given the uniqueness of every case, engaging with a registered migration agent is highly recommended for bespoke guidance and to navigate the specific details of your situation effectively. Book a visa consultation with a Registered Migration Agent
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