Australia offers various visa options for international students. One such option is the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). This visa allows international students who have recently graduated from an Australian educational institution to live and work in Australia temporarily.
This article provides an overview of the Temporary Graduate Visa, including its types, eligibility requirements, application process, and benefits.
Types of Temporary Graduate Visas
The Temporary Graduate Visa has two streams. Each stream caters to different groups of graduates.
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 Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL). This stream is ideal for students who completed a course that is closely linked to a specific occupation in demand in Australia.
Post-Study Work Stream
The Post-Study Work Stream is for international students who have completed a higher education degree from an Australian institution. This includes those who completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. This stream allows graduates to stay in Australia for up to four years, depending on the qualification they completed.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria vary between the two streams.
General Eligibility Criteria
Age: Applicants must be under 50 years old when applying.
Study Requirement: Applicants must have held a valid student visa (subclass 500) and completed a course that meets the Australian study requirement.
Application Timing: Applications must be submitted within six months of receiving their final results.
English Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate their English language skills by providing results from a recognized English language test.
Graduate Work Stream Requirements
The course of study must be closely related to an occupation on the SOL.
Applicants must have a qualification that is recognized by the relevant assessing authority in Australia.
Post-Study Work Stream Requirements
Applicants must have completed a higher education qualification from an Australian institution.
The qualification must be at least two academic years in duration.
It must be a degree, diploma, or higher qualification.
Application Process
The application process for the Temporary Graduate Visa involves several steps. It is essential to follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful application.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, applicants should gather all necessary documents. This includes:
A valid passport.
Academic transcripts and graduation certificates.
English language test results.
Evidence of the course completed in Australia.
Any additional documents requested by the Department of Home Affairs.
Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
Applicants must create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website. This account allows applicants to submit their visa application online.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Once the ImmiAccount is created, applicants should fill out the visa application form. The form requires detailed information about the applicant’s personal details, education history, and employment history.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
After completing the application form, applicants must pay the required visa application fee. The fee may vary based on the stream applied for.
Step 5: Submit the Application
Once all information is filled out and the fee is paid, applicants can submit their application through their ImmiAccount.
Step 6: Await the Outcome
After submission, the processing time can vary. It typically takes between 2 to 4 months for a decision to be made. During this time, applicants may be contacted for additional information or documents.
Visa Duration and Conditions
The duration of the Temporary Graduate Visa varies based on the stream.
Graduate Work Stream
The Graduate Work Stream allows graduates to stay in Australia for 18 months. This period provides ample time for graduates to gain work experience, develop skills, and seek employment in their field.
Post-Study Work Stream
The Post-Study Work Stream provides graduates with the opportunity to stay in Australia for:
2 years for bachelor’s degree holders.
3 years for master’s degree holders.
4 years for doctoral degree holders.
All visa holders must adhere to specific conditions while in Australia.
Work Rights
One of the significant advantages of the Temporary Graduate Visa is the work rights it offers. Graduates can work full-time during their stay. This flexibility allows graduates to gain valuable work experience, which can enhance their skills and employability.
Additionally, working in Australia can provide an insight into the Australian work culture and help build a professional network.
Benefits of the Temporary Graduate Visa
The Temporary Graduate Visa offers several benefits to international students.
Gaining Work Experience
This visa allows graduates to gain work experience in their field of study. This experience is invaluable and can significantly enhance their future career prospects. Employers often prefer candidates with local experience.
Exploring Australia
Holders of the Temporary Graduate Visa can explore Australia while working. This is an excellent opportunity to experience the culture, lifestyle, and diverse landscapes of Australia.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
For many graduates, the Temporary Graduate Visa can serve as a pathway to permanent residency in Australia. Graduates may qualify for other skilled visas based on their work experience gained during their stay.
Networking Opportunities
The time spent working in Australia allows graduates to build a professional network. This network can be instrumental in finding future job opportunities, whether in Australia or abroad.
See also: How To Get A Resident Return Visa In Australia
Conclusion
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is an excellent opportunity for international students to live and work in Australia after completing their studies.
With two distinct streams, this visa caters to different types of graduates. By meeting the eligibility requirements and following the application process, graduates can enjoy the benefits of working in Australia.
The experience gained during this time can significantly enhance their career prospects and provide a pathway to permanent residency.
For international students, the Temporary Graduate Visa represents a valuable chance to make the most of their Australian education and embark on a successful career.
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