Navigating New Waters: Changes to Australia's Subclass 485 Graduate Visa (December 2023 Update)
Understanding the Recent Proposed changes from the Migration Strategy report of 2023.
Understanding the Recent Proposed changes from the Migration Strategy report of 2023.
The landscape of Australian immigration is ever-evolving, and the latest series of proposed changes to the Subclass 485 Graduate Visa signifies a significant shift in policy. The proposed changes were flagged in the Migration Strategy report of 2023.
These alterations are poised to impact international students and graduates seeking to extend their stay in Australia. In this blog post, we'll dive deep into what these changes entail and how they might affect you.
1. Simplification and Streamlining of Visa Processes:
The Australian Government has initiated steps to simplify the graduate visa process, a move aimed at enhancing the applicant experience.
This simplification is also intended to speed up the transition from student visas to graduate visas.
Furthermore, the government is strengthening the pathway from graduate visas to temporary skilled visas.
This development is particularly crucial as it gives employers more clarity regarding a graduate’s ongoing work rights and their routes to permanent residence.
2. Renaming and Restructuring Visa Streams:
In an attempt to make visa streams more intuitive, the ‘Post-Study Work’ and ‘Graduate Work’ streams of the Temporary Graduate Visa (TGV) are undergoing a rebranding. 1
The new names, 'Post-higher Education Work' and 'Post-Vocational Education Work', are expected to be more descriptive and user-friendly for applicants.
Moreover, the ‘Replacement Stream’ of the TGV and the subclass 476 Skilled Recognised Graduate visa, which no longer aligns with current policy priorities, will be abolished.
3. Modification of Post-Study Work Rights:
A pivotal change in the policy is the shortening of post-study work rights.
The initial duration of the Temporary Graduate Visa will be reduced, and extensions of post-study work rights will no longer be generally available.
This change is aimed at addressing the issue of graduates becoming 'permanently temporary' in Australia. Extensions will now only be accessible to those who have studied in regional areas.
4: Age Limitation of 35 Years
The age limitation of a 485 visa is currently at a maximum of 50. That is set to change to 35.
5: Maximum Length of Visa Reduced
Below is a table summarizing the proposed changes to the length of the current and proposed Subclass 485 Graduate Visa:
-
Current 2 Years
Proposed 2 Years
-
Current: 3 Years
Proposed: 2 Years
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Current: 4 Years
Proposed: 3 Years
Second Subclass 485 Graduate Visa
-
Current: 1-2 Years
Proposed: 1-2 Years
-
Current: 2 Years
Proposed: Zero
6: English Test Requirements
From early 2024, the test score required for a Temporary Graduate visa will increase from an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score (or equivalent) of 6.0 to 6.5.
7: Transfering from Graduate Visa back to a student Visa is restricted:
The Government will restrict Temporary Graduate visa holders from transferring back to student visas while onshore.
8: Faster Processing Times:
Currently, processing times for a Graduate Visa are between 44 and 84 days for 90% of applications.
This will be reduced to a maximum of 21 days. However, the government has yet to announce when this will take effect.
Implications and indicative timeframes
These changes bring Australia's graduate visa settings in line with those of most comparable countries.
They are expected to put downward pressure on migration levels, as graduates with fewer prospects of permanent residence may choose to depart the country.
This adjustment is significant for early career professionals who can contribute to the Australian economy over a longer period.
Please watch this space in 2024 as most of the above changes are set to take place in early to mid 2024.
Conclusion:
While these proposed changes may pose new challenges for international graduates in Australia, they also open up streamlined pathways for those seeking to transition into skilled roles.
Current and prospective students need to stay informed and plan their educational and professional journeys in Australia accordingly.
We suggest that if you are graduating soon, you should lodge your Subclass 485 Graduate visa as soon as possible.
Please book a FREE chat if you wish to discuss this further with our team.
About Rocket & Ash Immigration Law:
At Rocket & Ash Immigration Law, we specialize in helping partners, graduates, and professionals navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law. Our expertise in visa applications ensures that you receive tailored advice and support throughout your immigration journey.
If you require assistance with your Subclass 485 graduate visa application or have any other immigration-related queries, our experienced team can help. Contact us by email at: hello@rocketandash.com.au or by phone at: 02 9158 3854
Written by Ines Jusufspahic, LPN: 5511366
Please note that this article does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information.
Footnotes
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/programs-subsite/migration-strategy/Documents/migration-strategy.pdf
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/programs-subsite/migration-strategy/Documents/migration-strategy-at-a-glance.pdf
