Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) Visa Work Rights Extended
Exciting News for 485 Visa Holders!
Introduction
The latest update from the Department of Home Affairs brings great news for Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) visa holders. The newly released Legislative Instrument Migration Amendment (Extension of Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) Visa and Increase in Subclass 500 (Student) Visa Work Hours) Regulations 2023 – F2023L00821 outlines significant changes that will benefit international higher education graduates with eligible qualifications.
Extended Post-Study Work Rights
Starting from 1 July 2023, eligible graduates will enjoy an extended period of post-study work rights, fostering greater opportunities for career growth and work experience. This amendment particularly benefits graduates in medicine, health care, engineering, and information technology sectors.
Increased Work Duration
The enhanced post-study work rights for eligible graduates are as follows:
A leap from two years to four years for eligible Bachelor degrees
An extension from three years to five years for eligible Masters degrees
A remarkable elongation from four years to six years for all doctoral qualifications.
Special Provision for Passport Holders
Remarkably, this also applies to holders of Hong Kong and British National Overseas passports, who qualify for a 5-year Post-Study Work Subclass 485 visa.
Automated Extension for Applicants
Starting July 1, 2023, primary Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) applicants will automatically receive a visa with an extra two-year extension beyond the standard visa period. This extension also applies to applicants in the Replacement stream or the Post-Study Work stream based on studies and residency in regional Australia, provided they haven't previously received this extension on a prior Temporary Graduate visa.
Additional Visa Stream
Moreover, a new provision has been introduced to offer an additional Temporary Graduate visa in the Post-Study Work stream. This is tailored for eligible visa holders who haven't previously benefited from the extended visa duration on a prior Temporary Graduate visa. Notably, there is no government charge associated with this particular stream.
Eligibility Criteria for Extension
Qualification and Timing
You qualify for this extension if:
You satisfy all eligibility criteria for the Post-Study Work stream of the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), and
Your qualification is within the list of eligible qualifications mentioned earlier.
In addition, one of the following scenarios must also apply to you:
You hold a valid Temporary Graduate visa (Post-Study Work stream) on July 1, 2023, or
You have a pending application for a Temporary Graduate visa (Post-Study Work stream) on July 1, 2023, or
You plan to lodge an application for a Temporary Graduate visa (Post-Study Work stream) after July 1, 2023.
Need More Information or Assistance?
If you require in-depth consultation about visa pathways for your migration journey or further information about these changes, then reach out to the team at ZEST LEGAL on our office number at 1300 079 743 or email us at hi@zestlegal.com.au . We're here to guide you through these exciting developments and help you make the most of the extended post-study work rights on offer.
