Graduate Development Visa (Subclass 485)Extensions for post-study visa holders in selected occupations and for regional study
Australia has always been a preferred destination for students looking to pursue higher education. The country offers world-class universities and a multicultural environment that attracts students from all over the world. To encourage international students to study in Australia, the government has recently introduced new extensions to the Graduate Development Visa (subclass 485).
The Graduate Development Visa allows international students to live and work in Australia after completing their studies. This visa is an excellent opportunity for graduates to gain valuable work experience and potentially apply for permanent residency in Australia.
Australia is facing the second highest skills shortage in the developed world, according to the latest OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development).[1] Consequently, the Australian government has announced three initiatives to address workforce shortage, impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Firstly, by extending post-study work visa for international students who have graduated from an Australian higher education provider in certain nominated occupations. Secondly, increasing the work hours cap for international students.[2] Thirdly, by extending post-study work visas for certain regional visa holders.
[1] Australia has second-worst skills crisis in developed world (afr.com)
[2] Addressing skills shortages in key industries and rebuilding the international education sector (homeaffairs.gov.au)
Extension for qualifications and certain nominated occupations
From 1 July 2023, second post-study work stream possibilities allow an extension between one and two years of first post-study work stream or replacement stream (subclass 485) in selected occupations.
The first Post-study work stream is for international students who graduated with a degree from an Australian institution. While a replacement stream visa is for current or former Temporary graduate visa holders who lost time during the COVID-19 travel restrictions.
The extension is applicable for areas of verified skill shortage for bachelor’s and master’s degrees. While all Doctors qualifications are applicable, regardless of field.
For selected bachelor’s degrees, the visa duration will increase from two years to four years. For selected master’s degrees, the visa duration will increase from three years to five years. And for all doctoral qualifications, the visa duration will increase from four years to six years.
Regarding bachelor and master, to be qualified for the extension, the visa holder occupation must be listed in the Skills Priority List by the Jobs and Skills Australia and the Department of Education.
The occupations identified in the 2022 Skills Priority List includes occupations in resources, health, ICT, engineering, construction, teaching, agriculture, and food technology. Nevertheless, the list is subjected to an annual review, so it can reflect the changes in the labour market.
Extension for Regional Study
New extensions of the Graduate Development Visa also apply to international students who have completed their studies in regional areas of Australia. Under this new policy, graduates who studied in regional areas will receive an additional year on their visa, allowing them to stay and work in Australia for up to 3 years. This extension will provide graduates with more time to gain valuable work experience and potentially apply for permanent residency.
In addition, the Australian government has increased the allowable work hours cap from 40 hours to 48 hours per fortnight for international students from 1 July 2023. So international students can financially support themselves while studying and contribute to Australia’s workforce needs.
To be eligible for the Graduate Development Visa extension, graduates must have lived and worked in a regional area for at least two years while holding a valid student visa. This requirement is aimed at encouraging graduates to contribute to the local community and economy by living and working in regional areas.
The new regional extensions to the Graduate Development Visa are part of the government's efforts to encourage international students to study and live in regional areas of Australia. Regional areas of Australia offer a high quality of life, lower living costs, and unique cultural experiences that students cannot find in major cities.
By encouraging international students to study in regional areas, the government aims to address the population imbalance in Australia and support the economic development of regional communities.
In conclusion, the new extensions to the Graduate Development Visa are a significant opportunity for international students. This visa extensions provide graduates with more time to gain valuable work experience, potentially apply for permanent residency, and contribute to the local economy and community. It is a win-win situation for graduates and regional communities alike, and it will undoubtedly strengthen Australia's reputation as a world-class education destination. Top of Form
If you are not sure whether you qualify for an extension of your Graduate Development Visa, or whether you are qualified to increase your work hours while studying, contact one of our expert migration lawyers at TooRoo Migration Lawyers today.
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Immigration law is an area that is complex and has little room for error and using an immigration lawyer will ensure the protection of your visa application and future in Australia. Here at TooRoo Migration Lawyers, our team of expert solicitors will provide sound and thorough advice on visa applications, applying for citizenship, and understanding your legal rights and responsibilities.
Disclaimer
This blog provides general information and is not intended as legal advice specific to your circumstances. Please feel free to seek our professional legal advice if you have any questions, concerns and/or queries.
