Graduating from an Australian institution is a significant achievement, but what if you want to gain work experience in Australia after completing your studies? The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) provides an excellent opportunity for international students to stay in Australia temporarily, allowing you to gain valuable work experience in your field. At VisaTasker Pty Ltd, we help you understand the eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits of the Temporary Graduate Visa.
What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily. The visa is divided into two streams:
- Graduate Work Stream: For international students who have completed an eligible qualification and have skills that relate to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). This visa is generally granted for 18 months.
- Post-Study Work Stream: For graduates with a higher education degree (such as a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree) from an Australian institution. This visa is typically granted for two to four years, depending on the qualification.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), you must meet specific criteria:
1. Age Requirement
- Under 50 Years Old: You must be under 50 years of age at the time of your application.
2. Recent Graduate
- Recent Study Requirement: You must have completed an eligible qualification within the last six months. This qualification must be from a CRICOS-registered course, and you must have studied for at least two academic years (92 weeks).
3. English Language Proficiency
- English Test: You must demonstrate your English language proficiency by achieving the required score in an approved English language test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic, unless you hold a passport from an exempt country.
4. Health and Character Requirements
- Medical and Police Checks: You must meet Australia’s health and character requirements by undergoing medical examinations and providing police clearance certificates.
5. Insurance
- Health Insurance: You are required to have adequate health insurance for the duration of your stay in Australia on the Subclass 485 visa.
6. Skills Assessment (Graduate Work Stream only)
- Relevant Skills: For the Graduate Work Stream, you may need to undergo a skills assessment to prove that your qualifications align with an occupation on the MLTSSL.
Application Process
1. Gather Supporting Documents
- Prepare Early: Collect all necessary documents, including your passport, academic transcripts, completion letters, English language test results, health insurance, and any required skills assessments.
2. Apply Online
- ImmiAccount: Lodge your application online through the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount portal. Ensure all your information is accurate, and upload all required documents to avoid processing delays.
3. Wait for a Decision
- Bridging Visa: If your current visa expires while your Subclass 485 visa application is being processed, you will typically be granted a Bridging Visa, allowing you to remain in Australia lawfully during the processing period.
4. Receive Your Visa Grant
- Temporary Stay: Once your visa is granted, you can live, work, and study in Australia for the duration of the visa. The length of stay depends on the stream you applied for and your qualifications.
Benefits of the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
1. Gain Work Experience
- Career Development: The Subclass 485 visa allows you to gain practical work experience in your field of study, which can be invaluable for your career development.
2. Pathway to Permanent Residency
- Future Opportunities: Gaining work experience in Australia on a Subclass 485 visa can enhance your eligibility for other skilled visas, including those that offer pathways to permanent residency.
3. Flexible Living Arrangements
- Freedom to Explore: You can live anywhere in Australia, allowing you to explore different cities and regions while working or studying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Late Applications: Ensure you apply for the Subclass 485 visa within six months of completing your studies. Missing this window could result in losing your eligibility.
- Incomplete Documentation: Double-check that you have provided all required documents, as incomplete applications can lead to delays or refusals.
- Misunderstanding Visa Conditions: Be aware of the conditions attached to your visa, such as maintaining health insurance and adhering to work restrictions.
Why Choose VisaTasker Pty Ltd?
Navigating the application process for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) can be complex, especially when dealing with specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements. At VisaTasker Pty Ltd, our agents are registered with the Office of the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA), and we provide expert guidance to help you through every step of the process.
Contact Us Today
Ready to apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)? Book a consultation with VisaTasker Pty Ltd, and let us assist you in securing your visa and making the most of your post-graduation opportunities in Australia.