Changes in 485 Visa Announced in December 2024

The Australian Government has introduced a new migration amendment regarding Graduate Visa No. 2 Regulation 2024!

Some crucial changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485, specifically focusing on the Post Higher Education Work Stream, were announced and came into effect on December 14, 2024. These significant changes aim to simplify, streamline, and align the visa criteria with the broader reforms of the Migration Strategy.

Let’s have a look at the key changes in 485 PHEWS:

Key Changes to the 485 Visa in December 2024: A Short Overview

• New Definition of “Degree”: In recent changes, the definition of “degree” has been redefined for the applicants of Subclass 485, focusing more on the Post Higher Education Work Stream. Now, graduate certificates will no longer qualify as a ‘degree.’

• Eligibility Criteria Adjustments: Now graduate diploma holders are eligible to apply if they pursue immediately after a relevant bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD program.

• Removal of Australian Study Requirement (ASR): The previous requirement of studying in Australia has now been removed from the visa criteria to simplify the application process and make it accessible for eligible graduates. 

• Regional Focus: If you are applying for a subsequent or second visa, you are required to live, work, and study in designated regional areas of Australia. 

What is a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485)?

The Temporary Graduate Visa subclass 485 is a temporary visa that allows an overseas student who has recently graduated from an Australian university to live, study, and work in Australia for an indefinite period of time. This is a suitable stream for those who want to gain practical experience in their field of study as well as transition to permanent residency in Australia. 

Understand Post-Higher Education Work Stream

The Post-Higher Education Work Stream is an important part of the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). It is designed for those international students who have completed their graduation in Australia recently. The PHEWS lets these graduates live, work, and study in Australia temporarily. 

5 Important Changes in the Post-Higher Education Work Stream of 485 Visa

In the recent migration amendment, there are exciting updates regarding the Postgraduate Higher Education Work Stream that are crucial to understand. These updates will certify the international students to understand new eligibility requirements and better align them with the goals of Australia’s skilled migration program. 

Let’s take a look at the five important things you need to know before applying for the 485 Post-Higher Education Work Stream.

Graduate Certificate No Longer Accepted: 

All graduate certificates are no longer accepted as valid qualifications for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). The purpose of this significant change is to maintain higher academic standards.

Graduate Diploma Eligibility: 

Only graduate diplomas are accepted now if they are closely related to your previous Australian qualification (such as a bachelor’s degree or higher degree). Furthermore, the graduate diploma should be started within the same or the next academic year after completing your previous qualification.

Degree Completion Timeline:

To be eligible for the 485 visa, you must have completed your degree at an Australian educational institution within the last six months.

Course Duration Requirement:

Your degree program must meet the following criteria:

• A duration of at least two academic years.
• Completed within 16 calendar months.

CRICOS Registration and Visa Validity:

The degree of the applicants must be registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) and must be completed while you hold a valid student visa.

Final Thoughts

All these recent changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 focus on the Postgraduate Higher Education Work Stream, which took effect on 14 December. In these updates, confusion surrounding qualification requirements has been added to make the process more smooth and streamlined. This will lead international students to streamline pathways for long-term opportunities in Australia. 

These changes started right after they were registered on the Federal Register of Legislation and apply to the 485 applications lodged after their commencement. The new rule of the 485 visa showcases the dedication of the Australian government to bringing in and keeping highly skilled international professionals in Australia. 

Count on Our Migration Agent for Expert Opinion!

These recent changes to the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) can be complex to understand; you need to consult with a migration agent and consultants. If you are considering applying for a Temporary Graduate Visa for Postgraduate, count on our registered MARA agent, Nasir Nawaz, at the Migration.

He is well-versed in the latest regulations and an expert in Australian immigration. He will guide you in each and every step and help you understand how these changes in 485 can impact your application. So, book your appointment now and consult with him regarding your 485 visa application!