Introduction
Good news for international students in Australia. As of 1st July 2023, International graduates will now have extended Post Study work visa (Visa 485).
The Migration (Specified Qualifications Applicable for Extension of Subclass 485 Visa) Instrument (LIN 23/048) 2023 has been introduced to outline the qualifications that make certain graduates from Australian educational institutions eligible to apply for an extended Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa. This visa extension falls under the Post-Study Work stream and allows graduates to stay in Australia for a longer period without incurring a visa application charge (VAC).
Background
As of July 1, 2023, the Migration Regulations were amended by the Migration Amendment (Extension of Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) Visa and Increase in Subclass 500 (Student) Visa Work Hours) Regulations 2023. These amendments grant the Minister of Immigration increased flexibility to extend the post-study stay in Australia for international students who have completed their education at an Australian higher education provider. The aim of this policy is to offer an extended stay to graduates with specific qualifications that are in high demand.
Implementation of Extended Stay
The extended stay, as outlined in the published policy, will come into effect on July 1, 2023. The current duration of post-study stay for certain qualifications will be increased by two years. The revised durations are as follows:
1. Select Bachelor degrees: The post-study stay will be extended from two years to four years.
2. Select Masters degrees: The post-study stay will be extended from three years to five years.
3. All Doctoral degrees: The post-study stay will be extended from four years to six years.
It is important to note that this extended stay provides graduates with unrestricted work rights during their stay in Australia. This means that they can seek employment and contribute to the Australian workforce without any limitations.
Implications and Benefits
The Migration (Specified Qualifications Applicable for Extension of Subclass 485 Visa) Instrument aims to benefit international students who have completed their education in Australia by providing them with an extended stay and unrestricted work rights. By extending the post-study stay duration, graduates will have more time to explore career opportunities, gain valuable work experience, and potentially transition to a permanent visa if they meet the eligibility criteria.
This instrument also acknowledges the high demand for graduates with specific qualifications. By incentivizing international students to pursue these qualifications in Australia, the government aims to address skill shortages in key sectors and contribute to the overall economic growth of the country.
Conclusion
The Migration (Specified Qualifications Applicable for Extension of Subclass 485 Visa) Instrument (LIN 23/048) 2023 establishes the qualifications that make certain graduates eligible for an extended stay in Australia under the Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa. The extension of post-study stay duration, along with unrestricted work rights, provides international students with valuable opportunities to establish their careers and contribute to the Australian workforce. This instrument reflects the government’s commitment to attracting and retaining skilled international graduates, fostering economic growth, and addressing skill shortages in critical sectors.
List of CRICOS codes, Course names and Educational Institutions qualified for Extension of Subclass 485 Visa
