Visa Status Overview
As of March 2026, the Skilled-Recognised Graduate (Subclass 476) visa remains permanently closed to new applications. The Australian Department of Home Affairs officially capped the program on 22 December 2023 and abolished the subclass on 1 July 2024.
This change was part of a broader migration strategy to align graduate pathways with current economic priorities. For those who previously applied but did not receive a decision, the Department has concluded the refund process for Visa Application Charges (VAC).
Important Note: No new applications, including subsequent entrant applications for family members, can be lodged for this visa.
What This Visa Let You Do
If you are an existing holder of a Subclass 476 visa granted prior to the closure, your visa remains valid until the expiry date specified in your grant notification. While your visa is active, you can:
- Work and Study: Live, work, and study in Australia without employer sponsorship.
- Travel: Travel into and out of Australia an unlimited number of times while the visa is valid.
- Gain Experience: Use your engineering qualification to gain professional experience in the Australian industry.
Current Obligations for Holders
Remaining Subclass 476 visa holders must continue to adhere to all Australian migration laws and visa conditions:
- Health Insurance: You must maintain adequate health insurance (Overseas Visitor Health Cover) for the duration of your stay.
- Visa Expiry: You must leave Australia or apply for a different substantive visa before your current Subclass 476 expires.
- Updated Details: You are required to notify the Department of any changes in your circumstances, such as a new mobile number, email address, or residential address, through ImmiAccount.
Alternative Pathways for Engineering Graduates
Since the abolition of the 476 visa, engineering graduates are encouraged to explore alternative skilled migration streams. Below are the current 2026 benchmarks for relevant categories:
| Visa Subclass | 2026 Base Fee (Primary Applicant) | 50% of Applications Processed | 90% of Applications Processed |
| Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) | AUD 4,600 | 29 Days | 58 Days |
| Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) | AUD 4,765 | 6 Months | 11 Months |
| Child Visa (Subclass 101) | AUD 3,235 | 14 Months | 22 Months |
Fees and processing times are subject to change by the Department of Home Affairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still apply for a Subclass 476 visa in 2026?
No. The visa was permanently closed to all new applicants on 1 July 2024. Engineering graduates should now look toward the Subclass 485 (Post-Higher Education Work stream) or employer-sponsored pathways.
I have a 476 visa; can my partner join me as a subsequent entrant?
No. The Department of Home Affairs ceased accepting subsequent entrant applications for the Subclass 476 visa at the time of its closure in 2024.
What is the current processing time for a 476 visa?
There are no active processing times for this subclass as all pending applications were finalised or refunded following the 2024 repeal. For current graduate-level visas like the Subclass 485, the median processing time is approximately 29 days under the new 2026 Real-Time Tracking platform.
What happens if my 476 visa expires soon?
You must apply for another visa, such as a Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) or a Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) visa, if you meet the points test and invitations are open. Ensure you lodge your new application before your current stay ends to remain lawful.
