Proposed Changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) - Effective 1 July

Overview:

The Australian Government is implementing significant changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), effective from 1 July 2024, to align visa streams with educational levels.

Key Changes:

Stream Realignment:

1. Graduate Work Stream becomes Post-Vocational Education Work Stream.
2. Post-Study Work Stream becomes Post-Higher Education Work Stream.
3. Second Post-Study Work Stream becomes Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream.

Eligibility and Stay Periods:

1. Post-Vocational Education Work Stream:
   • Up to 18 months for most, up to 5 years for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders.
2. Post-Higher Education Work Stream:
   • Bachelor’s: up to 2 years
   • Master’s (coursework, extended): up to 2 years
   • Master’s (research), PhD: up to 3 years
   • Special provisions for Indian nationals per AI-ECTA.
   • Age limit for both streams reduced to 35 years, except for certain passport holders (up to 50 years).

Other Changes:

Replacement Stream: Ceased.