The Australian government has introduced significant amendments to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), particularly impacting the Post-Higher Education Work (PHEW) stream. The Migration Amendment (Graduate Visas No. 2) Instrument (LIN 24/086) 2024, effective for applications lodged after its commencement, aims to streamline academic requirements and refine the pathway for skilled graduates to contribute to Australia’s growing workforce. These updates ensure that the visa framework aligns with Australia’s broader migration and economic objectives while maintaining high academic standards for graduates seeking to live and work in Australia.
Key Updates to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
1. Updated Academic Requirements
One of the most notable updates to the Subclass 485 visa is the refinement of the academic requirements for applicants. To be eligible, individuals must have completed a degree from an Australian educational institution within the last six months. The updated criteria include the following key points:
- CRICOS Registration: The degree must be registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring that it meets the standards for international education.
- Study Duration: The degree should involve a minimum of 16 calendar months of study. This ensures that the qualification meets a higher standard of academic depth.
- Academic Year Requirement: Applicants must have completed a minimum of two academic years to qualify.
- English Language Requirement: The degree must be completed entirely in English. This ensures that graduates are proficient in the language of the workforce and can contribute effectively to the Australian economy.
- Student Visa Compliance: The degree must have been undertaken while holding a valid Australian student visa, reinforcing that the applicant has adhered to the visa conditions during their studies.
2. Revised Definition of “Degree”
A significant change under the new regulations is the revised definition of what qualifies as a “degree.” Graduate certificates, which were previously accepted as eligible qualifications under the PHEW stream, are no longer recognised for this visa. This revision ensures that applicants hold a higher level of academic qualification, which better aligns with Australia’s skill development and workforce needs.
3. Institutional and Degree Clarifications
The new amendments also introduce stricter criteria for the educational institutions and courses that meet the updated standards. Educational institutions must now offer courses at the bachelor’s degree level or higher to meet the eligibility requirements for the Subclass 485 visa. This ensures that only graduates with qualifications from recognised institutions that provide higher-level courses are eligible for this visa stream.
Why These Changes Matter
These amendments reflect the Australian government’s commitment to attracting high-quality graduates who will contribute positively to the country’s workforce. By refining the academic requirements, Australia ensures that the applicants have not only the necessary skills but also the academic foundations to thrive in the workforce. These changes help streamline the process for skilled graduates while also maintaining a high standard of education that will enhance Australia’s economic growth.
What Does This Mean for Applicants?
For applicants intending to apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), these amendments represent a tightening of the eligibility criteria. The key changes, including the exclusion of graduate certificates and the more stringent requirements for eligible institutions and degrees, are designed to ensure that only graduates with higher-level qualifications are granted this visa.
Applicants who are currently in the process of applying or those considering applying for this visa must ensure they meet the updated academic criteria to avoid any complications in their application process.
Conclusion
The recent changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) under the Migration Amendment (Graduate Visas No. 2) Instrument (LIN 24/086) 2024 provide a more streamlined and robust pathway for skilled graduates to contribute to Australia’s workforce. With stricter academic requirements and a clearer definition of eligible qualifications, the updated framework ensures that only graduates who have completed high-level qualifications and met rigorous academic benchmarks will be eligible for the visa. These amendments underscore Australia’s focus on attracting top-tier talent to support its growing economy while maintaining high standards for skilled migration.
If you’re unsure whether you meet the updated criteria or need assistance navigating these changes, book a complimentary consultation with our expert team at NB Migration Law to get the advice you need to ensure your visa application is successful.