1. What is the subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa?
The subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa is a temporary visa granted to international students who have recently graduated with an eligible qualification from an Australian institution. This visa allows graduates to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily after completing their studies. The visa has two streams: the Graduate Work stream for graduates with skills and qualifications that relate to specific occupations in demand in Australia, and the Post-Study Work stream for graduates with higher education degrees from Australian institutions. The duration of the visa varies depending on the stream chosen and the level of study completed. Obtaining this visa provides an opportunity for recent graduates to gain valuable work experience in Australia and potentially transition to a more permanent residency status in the future.
2. Who is eligible to apply for the subclass 485 visa?
To be eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), individuals must meet certain criteria, including:
1. Completion of an eligible Australian qualification: Applicants must have completed a qualification in Australia within the last six months that is at least a diploma level or higher.
2. Age requirement: Applicants must be under 50 years of age at the time of application.
3. Meet English language requirements: Applicants must meet the English language proficiency requirements, either through providing evidence of having achieved a certain score in a recognized English language test or by holding a passport from an eligible English-speaking country.
4. Health and character requirements: Applicants must meet health and character requirements as set out by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
5. Adequate health insurance: Applicants must obtain adequate health insurance in Australia for the duration of their stay.
6. Lodging application within 6 months of course completion: Applicants must apply for the subclass 485 visa within six months of completing their eligible qualification in Australia.
Meeting these eligibility criteria is essential for individuals seeking to apply for the subclass 485 visa, which allows recent graduates to remain in Australia temporarily to gain work experience after completing their studies in the country.
3. What are the different streams available under the subclass 485 visa?
There are two streams available under the subclass 485 visa:
1. Graduate Work Stream: This stream is for international students who have recently graduated with skills and qualifications that are relevant to specific occupations in demand in the Australian labour market. Applicants under this stream are granted a visa for up to 18 months to gain work experience in their field of study.
2. Post-Study Work Stream: This stream is for international students who have recently graduated with a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from an Australian educational institution. The duration of the visa granted under this stream varies depending on the highest qualification obtained: bachelor’s degree holders are eligible for a two-year visa, master’s degree holders for a three-year visa, and PhD holders for a four-year visa. This stream allows graduates to work, study, and live in Australia temporarily after completing their studies.
4. What are the key requirements for applying for the subclass 485 visa?
The key requirements for applying for the subclass 485 visa include:
1. Eligibility: You must have completed a qualification in Australia within the last 6 months prior to applying, which could be a degree, diploma, or trade qualification.
2. Visa conditions: You must currently hold an eligible visa that allows you to apply for the subclass 485 visa. This could include a student visa, a bridging visa, or a skilled graduate visa.
3. English language proficiency: You must meet the English language requirements specified by the Department of Home Affairs.
4. Health and character requirements: You must meet the health and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs. This may include providing a police clearance certificate and undergoing a medical examination.
5. Applying within the timeframe: You must apply for the subclass 485 visa within 6 months of completing your course of study in Australia.
6. Meet the Australian study requirement: You must have completed at least 2 years of study in Australia as part of a CRICOS-registered course within the last 6 months.
Meeting these key requirements is essential for a successful application for the subclass 485 visa. Make sure to carefully check all the eligibility criteria and provide all required documentation to support your application.
5. How do I prove that I meet the Australian study requirement for the subclass 485 visa?
To prove that you meet the Australian study requirement for the subclass 485 visa, you need to provide evidence that you have completed one or more degrees, diplomas, or trade qualifications that are CRICOS registered and were conducted in English. Here is how you can demonstrate that you meet this requirement:
1. Provide certified copies of your academic transcripts and completion certificates from the Australian educational institution(s) where you studied.
2. Ensure that your institution is listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
3. Show that your course was conducted in English by providing English proficiency test results such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores.
4. If you completed multiple qualifications, make sure that the combined duration meets the minimum study requirement for the subclass 485 visa.
5. Include any other relevant documentation, such as a letter from your education provider confirming your completion of the course(s) and the medium of instruction.
By submitting these documents and meeting the specified criteria, you can effectively prove that you meet the Australian study requirement for the subclass 485 visa.
6. What is the visa application fee for the subclass 485 visa?
The visa application fee for the subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa varies depending on the main applicant’s circumstances. As of January 2022, the base application charge for the primary applicant is AUD $1,650. Additional charges may apply for any family members included in the application. It is important to check the Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date information on visa application fees. It is also recommended to have the necessary funds ready to pay the visa application fee when submitting Form 147 to avoid delays in processing the application.
7. How long does it take to process a subclass 485 visa application?
The processing time for a subclass 485 visa application can vary depending on various factors. As of the latest update, the Department of Home Affairs provides an estimated processing time of around 83 days for 75% of applications, while 90% of applications are processed within approximately 4 months. It is important to note that these processing times are indicative and can fluctuate based on the volume of applications received, individual circumstances, and any additional information or documentation requested by the department. It is advisable for applicants to lodge their subclass 485 visa application well in advance and ensure all required documents are submitted correctly to facilitate a smoother processing timeline.
8. Can I include family members in my subclass 485 visa application?
No, you cannot include family members in your subclass 485 visa application. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is a visa for international students who have recently graduated from an Australian educational institution. It allows you to stay in Australia to live, study, or work after you have finished your studies. This visa is designed for the primary applicant only and does not allow for the inclusion of family members. If your family members wish to join you in Australia, they would need to apply for their own appropriate visa based on their individual circumstances.
9. What is the validity period of the subclass 485 visa?
The validity period of a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is typically between 18 months to 4 years, depending on the specific stream under which the visa is granted:
1. Graduate Work Stream: This stream allows graduates with skills and qualifications related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) to stay in Australia for up to 18 months.
2. Post-Study Work Stream: Graduates who have completed a higher education degree in Australia are eligible for this stream, allowing them to stay between 2 to 4 years, depending on their qualification level:
a. Bachelor’s degree – 2 years
b. Master’s degree by coursework – 2 years
c. Master’s degree by research – 3 years
d. Doctoral degree – 4 years
It’s important to note that the validity period of the subclass 485 visa is not extendable, and applicants must meet specific criteria to be eligible for this visa, including health and character requirements, having adequate health insurance, and meeting English language proficiency standards.
10. Can I work full-time on a subclass 485 visa?
On a subclass 485 visa, you are allowed to work full-time in Australia. This visa type is designed to provide temporary work rights to international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution. Full-time work is considered to be around 38 hours per week, although the definition may vary depending on the industry and the specific job requirements. It is important to note that while you can work full-time on a subclass 485 visa, there may be certain conditions or restrictions related to the type of work or industry you can engage in, so it is advisable to review your visa conditions carefully to ensure compliance.
11. Do I need health insurance for the subclass 485 visa?
Yes, health insurance is a mandatory requirement for the subclass 485 visa. As a temporary graduate visa holder, you must maintain adequate health insurance coverage throughout your stay in Australia. This is essential to ensure that you have access to necessary healthcare services and do not become a burden on the Australian healthcare system. Failure to maintain appropriate health insurance could result in visa cancellation or other adverse consequences. It is important to carefully review the specific health insurance requirements for the subclass 485 visa and ensure that you comply with these regulations to avoid any complications during your stay in Australia.
12. What are the conditions attached to the subclass 485 visa?
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) has several conditions attached to it that visa holders must abide by during their stay in Australia. These conditions include, but are not limited to:
1. Full-time study: The visa holder must maintain full-time study in Australia to meet the requirements of this visa.
2. Work restrictions: There may be restrictions on the number of hours the visa holder can work each week, typically limited to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic year.
3. Notification of changes: Any changes to the visa holder’s address, contact details, or circumstances must be updated with the Department of Home Affairs within a specified timeframe.
4. Health insurance: Visa holders are required to maintain adequate health insurance cover while in Australia.
5. Compliance with Australian laws: It is essential for visa holders to abide by all Australian laws and visa conditions during their stay.
Failure to comply with these conditions may result in visa cancellation or refusal of future visa applications. It is important for Temporary Graduate visa holders to be aware of and adhere to these conditions throughout their time in Australia.
13. Can I include additional documents after submitting my subclass 485 visa application?
Yes, you can include additional documents after submitting your subclass 485 visa application. However, it is important to note the following:
1. The Department of Home Affairs recommends submitting all required documents at the time of application to avoid delays in processing.
2. If you have additional documents that are pertinent to your application and were not included in the initial submission, you can upload them through your ImmiAccount.
3. Ensure that any additional documents you include support your claims and meet the visa requirements.
4. It is advisable to notify the Department of Home Affairs of any additional documents you submit by sending an email or contacting them through other appropriate channels.
5. Keep in mind that the processing time of your visa application may vary if additional documents are submitted, as they will need to be assessed along with the existing application.
14. What happens if my circumstances change after lodging my subclass 485 visa application?
If your circumstances change after lodging your subclass 485 visa application, it is important to notify the Department of Home Affairs as soon as possible. Depending on the nature of the change, it may impact your eligibility for the visa or require additional documentation. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Change of address or contact details: Update the department with your new address or contact information to ensure you receive important communications regarding your application.
2. Change in passport or travel document: If you obtain a new passport or travel document, you must notify the department and provide the updated information for their records.
3. Change in Australian mailing address: If you change your mailing address within Australia, make sure to inform the department to avoid any delays in receiving correspondence.
4. Change in personal circumstances: If there are significant changes in your personal circumstances, such as a change in relationship status, health condition, or any other relevant information, you should notify the department promptly.
Failure to inform the Department of Home Affairs about changes in your circumstances may affect the processing of your subclass 485 visa application. It is best to communicate any changes promptly to ensure your application remains valid and to comply with visa requirements.
15. What is the Bridging visa that is granted during processing of the subclass 485 visa?
The Bridging visa granted during the processing of the subclass 485 visa is the Bridging visa A (BVA). This visa allows applicants to remain lawfully in Australia while their subclass 485 visa application is being processed. The BVA comes into effect once the applicant’s current visa expires and provides them with work rights in Australia. It is important to note that the BVA only remains in effect until a decision is made on the subclass 485 visa application, at which point the applicant will either be granted the temporary graduate visa or be required to depart Australia if the application is not successful.
16. Can I travel outside of Australia while holding a subclass 485 visa?
Yes, you can travel outside of Australia while holding a subclass 485 visa. However, there are certain conditions you must meet in order to maintain the validity of your visa:
1. Re-entry Facility: Ensure that you have a multiple-entry facility attached to your visa. This will allow you to leave and re-enter Australia as many times as you need during the validity of your subclass 485 visa.
2. Duration of Stay: Keep in mind that your temporary graduate visa has a specific validity period, typically between 18 months to 4 years depending on the stream you applied under. Ensure that your travel plans do not exceed this duration.
3. Compliance: Make sure you comply with all the conditions attached to your visa, such as maintaining health insurance coverage and meeting the Australian study requirement, to avoid any issues upon your return to Australia.
4. Notify Authorities: It is advisable to inform the Department of Home Affairs about your travel plans through the appropriate channels to avoid any complications with your visa status.
Overall, while it is possible to travel outside of Australia with a subclass 485 visa, it is important to adhere to the visa conditions and ensure that your travel plans align with the requirements of the visa subclass.
17. What are the options available after the subclass 485 visa expires?
After the subclass 485 visa expires, individuals have several options to consider:
1. Apply for a new visa: Depending on their circumstances, individuals may be eligible to apply for another visa to prolong their stay in Australia. They can explore options such as a skilled visa, employer-sponsored visa, partner visa, or student visa, among others.
2. Return to their home country: If individuals do not wish to pursue further studies or work opportunities in Australia, they can choose to return to their home country after the subclass 485 visa expires.
3. Continue their education: Individuals may consider furthering their studies by enrolling in a new course or program in Australia. This could lead to eligibility for a new student visa or potentially a skilled visa in the future.
4. Explore other pathways to residency: Individuals can explore other pathways to permanent residency in Australia, such as through skilled migration programs, family sponsorship, or business visas.
It is important for individuals to assess their options and plan ahead before their subclass 485 visa expires to ensure a smooth transition and compliance with Australian immigration regulations.
18. How do I address health and character requirements for the subclass 485 visa?
To address the health requirement for the subclass 485 visa, you must undergo a health examination conducted by a panel physician approved by the Department of Home Affairs. This examination typically includes a medical assessment, chest x-ray, and blood tests. If any health issues are identified, you may be required to provide further medical documentation or undergo additional assessments to demonstrate that you meet the health requirements for the visa.
Regarding the character requirement, you are obligated to provide a police clearance certificate or police check from each country where you have lived for a certain period of time, typically the last 12 months or more, in the past 10 years. This certificate should demonstrate that you have a clean criminal record or provide details of any offenses committed. Applicants with a substantial criminal record or who are deemed a potential risk to the community may not meet the character requirements for the subclass 485 visa. It is crucial to thoroughly review and adhere to the health and character requirements specified by the Department of Home Affairs to ensure a successful application process.
19. Do I need to have a skills assessment for the subclass 485 visa?
Yes, you do not need to have a skills assessment for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). The subclass 485 visa is specifically designed for international students who have recently graduated from an Australian educational institution and wish to continue living and working in Australia temporarily to gain valuable work experience. The visa does not have any specific skills assessment requirements, but applicants must meet other criteria such as holding eligible qualifications, meeting health and character requirements, having adequate health insurance, and meeting the English language proficiency requirement if applicable. It is important to carefully review the specific requirements for the subclass 485 visa to ensure eligibility before submitting an application.
20. Are there any work or study limitations on the subclass 485 visa?
Yes, there are certain work and study limitations on the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). Here they are:
1. Work Limitation:
– The Temporary Graduate visa allows holders to work in Australia without restrictions. They have full work rights and can work for any employer, in any occupation, and for any number of hours during their stay in Australia.
2. Study Limitation:
– While there are no specific study limitations imposed on subclass 485 visa holders, they are encouraged to undertake further study or training to enhance their skills and improve their chances of obtaining permanent residency in Australia.
It is important to note that these conditions are subject to change, and applicants should refer to the Department of Home Affairs website or consult with a migration agent for the most up-to-date information.