485 Visa Checklist – Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

Australia stands out as one of the select countries that permit international students to work while pursuing their studies. It presents an opportunity for students who have recently graduated to stay longer through the Temporary Graduate Visa. If you are considering extending your stay after completing your studies in Australia, the 485 Visa is the ideal option. To ensure a smooth application process, it is crucial to complete the 485 visa checklist.

Now, let’s delve into the specifics of the Temporary Graduate Visa, 485 Visa Checklist.

A Temporary Graduate Visa 485 is specifically designed for international students who have recently graduated in Australia. This visa offers an opportunity for international students to utilize their skills and qualifications gained during their studies by allowing them to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily.

We understand the significance of the Visa 485 for international students who aspire to gain valuable work experience and further their careers in Australia. Our consultancy firm is committed to providing guidance and support throughout the application process to ensure a smooth and successful transition. 

Commencing from the 1st of July 2023, an exciting development awaits in terms of extended work rights. In an effort to enhance opportunities for international students, significant adjustments will be made to the existing regulations. These changes entail an extension of the post-study work rights by an additional two years, enabling graduates to delve deeper into their chosen fields and gain valuable work experience.

The modifications encompass a range of degree programs, with specific duration being extended accordingly. For select Bachelor degrees, the post-study work rights will be prolonged from two years to an impressive four years. Similarly, for select Masters degrees, the extension will allow graduates to work for five years instead of the previous three. Moreover, the enhancement of work rights will also apply to all Doctoral degrees, granting a remarkable six years for individuals to embark on their professional journeys.

It is worth noting that the existing provisions for regional and remote areas of Australia will be retained, ensuring continued benefits for those studying in these locations. Furthermore, such regions will remain eligible for the additional two years of extended work rights, creating even more incentive for students to explore the unique opportunities available in these areas.

To be eligible for the two-year extension, graduates must possess a valid Temporary Graduate Visa on or before the 1st of July 2023. Alternatively, those who apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa after this date will also be considered for the extended work rights. This change seeks to provide ample time for graduates to apply their acquired knowledge, contribute to the workforce, and further enrich their personal and professional growth.

Who Can Apply For Subclass 485?

To qualify for the temporary graduate visa (subclass 485), you need to meet several criteria which are part of 485 visa checklist. These criteria include:

Age Limit:

You must be under 50 years of age at the time of application.

Visa Requirement In 485 Visa Checklist:

You must hold an eligible visa that allows you to apply for the subclass 485 visa. The Department of Home Affairs provides a list of eligible visas.

CRICOS-Registered Course:

You should have completed a qualification within the last six months from a course that is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

Stream-Specific Requirements In 485 Visa Checklist:

Depending on the stream you are applying under, there may be additional requirements to fulfill. The Department of Home Affairs can provide detailed information on the specific requirements for each stream.

Health Requirements In 485 Visa Checklist:

You must appear in the mandatory medical examination to fulfill the health criteria set by Australian Government. 

Health Cover Requirements In 485 Visa Checklist:

Applicants and dependents needs to have their health cover at the time of applying for temporary graduate visa. If you are on a student visa in Australia, you will be already having one. 

Debt Status:

If you have taken a loan from any government agency, it’s better if it’s not pending. Your Debt-Free Status is an important criteria in 485 visa check-list.

English Requirements In 485 Visa Checklist:

If you are a citizen of the USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, or New Zealand and hold a valid passport, you are free from this requirement.

Applicants from other nationality can take any of the below mentioned English Proficiency Tests and provide evidence of minimum English skills. The validity of the test result is up to 3 years from the result date. PTE, IELTS, TOEFL, OET, & CAE are some of the accepted English Exams you choose to appear in. 

It is important to note that this information is based on the general eligibility requirements for the temporary graduate visa (subclass 485). It is advisable to refer to the official resources provided by the Department of Home Affairs for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding eligibility criteria and 485 visa checklist.

Mandatory Documents In 485 Visa Checklist:

Below is an updated 485 Visa Checklist. Please ensure to keep these documents ready before you begin with the application process.

  • A valid passport
  • Photographs – Passport sized (45 mm x 35 mm)
  • Family/Relationship documents (if any)
  • Health Insurance – A duly signed letter (138 KB RTF) from a registered insurance provider
  • Character Certificate – A certificate from the Australian Federal Police (issued within 12 months)
  • Course completion documents from the education institution
  • Attested copies of course transcripts
  • English proficiency test result
  • Skills Assessment Documents – If applied in the Graduate Work Stream, you need to provide a skill assessment document that mentions that the relevant authority has successfully assessed your skills and found it suitable for the nominated occupation.

FAQ’s Regarding 485 Visa Checklist:

How to check if my occupation falls under the occupation list of state?

You can check from the following link: Australia Skilled Occupation List

Am I eligible to work full-time after having a Subclass 485 Visa?

Yes, this visa holders will be able to work full-time during the duration of this visa. Once the visa expires and if the applicants wish to continue working full-time, they need to apply for a new visa. 

Can Subclass 485 be extended?

This temporary graduate visa cannot be extended. Once this visa expires, you will need to file for a new visa to continue living and working in Australia.

What is the right time to apply for Subclass 485?

Prospective applicants are advised to submit their visa applications within six months following the completion of their course. It is mandatory to possess a valid student visa or Bridging visa A/B at the time of applying for the 485 visa. In cases where applicants hold a bridging visa while applying for the 485 visa, their previous student visa should have expired within a six-month time frame.

What are the benefits of subclass 485 visa?

The subclass 485 visa represents a unique opportunity for international graduates to not only extend their stay in Australia but also to gain valuable work experience and potentially secure their long-term future in the country. One of the significant advantages of the subclass 485 visa is its potential as a pathway to other visa options. By leveraging the experience gained during their studies and subsequent work, graduates may become eligible for skilled visas such as the subclass 189 or 190.

How We Can Help You In 485 Visa Checklist?

Your aspirations to grow and settle in Australia need two most important things:

  1. A representative who understands your ambitions, goals and how much it means to have the result you desire. 
  2. A representative who is a registered migration agent. 

We have both, expertise and experience to guide your visa application to the glory. Do explore our services today, and in case of any queries, let’s connect for the same. Book your consultation with us today.

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