Australia is a popular destination for international students and skilled professionals seeking career growth, training opportunities, and potential pathways to permanent residency.
Two commonly sought-after visas are the Training Visa (subclass 407) and the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). While both allow temporary stays, they serve different purposes and come with distinct eligibility requirements, work rights, and durations. Understanding their differences can help applicants make informed decisions based on their goals.
What is the Training Visa (Subclass 407)?
The Training Visa (subclass 407) is designed for individuals who need to undertake occupational training to improve their skills in a professional field. It is suitable for those looking to gain practical experience related to their current occupation or study.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be sponsored by an approved temporary activities sponsor.
- The training must be structured and relevant to the applicant’s current occupation or field of study.
- Must meet health and character requirements.
- Functional English proficiency is required.
Duration
The 407 Visa is typically granted for up to 2 years, depending on the length of the training program.
Work Rights
- Applicants can work full-time in the specified occupation listed in their most recently approved nomination and training organization.
- Applicants cannot undertake full-time employment outside of their training.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
This visa does not lead directly to permanent residency. However, individuals who gain significant skills and work experience may become eligible for skilled migration visas, such as Skills in Demand Visa (subclass 482), Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) or the Employer-Sponsored Visa (subclass 186).
What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) allows recent international graduates from Australian institutions to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily. This visa is an excellent option for students seeking post-study work experience in their field.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must have completed an eligible course in Australia.
- Must have applied within six months of finishing the course.
- Must meet the Australian Study Requirement (a minimum of two years of full-time study in Australia).
- Must meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Must have adequate health insurance.
Streams and Duration
There are two main streams under the 485 Visa:
- Graduate Work Stream: For students who completed a qualification related to an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List. The visa duration is 18 months to 2 years.
- Post-Study Work Stream: Available for students who have completed higher education (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD). Duration varies from 2 to 4 years, depending on the qualification level.
Work Rights
- Full-time work rights are granted.
- No employer sponsorship is required.
- Graduates can work in any industry.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
The 485 Visa is considered a stepping stone to permanent residency. Graduates can apply for:
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
- Employer-Sponsored Visas (subclass 186 or 482)
Key Differences Between the 407 and 485 Visa
| Feature | Training Visa (Subclass 407) | Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) |
| Purpose | Occupational training to improve skills | Post-study work experience |
| Eligibility | Sponsored by an Australian organization for training | Must have graduated from an Australian institution |
| Duration | Up to 2 years | 18 months to 4 years, depending on stream |
| Work Rights | Can work full-time in the specified occupation listed in their most recently approved nomination and training organization* | Full-time work rights |
| Pathway to PR | No direct pathway, can lead to skilled migration visas* | No direct pathway, can lead to skilled migration visas* |
| Age Requirement | Must at least be 18 years old and above | Must be 35 years old and below* |
| *Contact NB Migration Law for specified conditions | ||
Which Visa is Right for You?
- If you are an international student who has recently graduated and wants to gain full-time work experience, the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is the better option.
- If you are a skilled worker or student looking to undertake structured training in your field, the Training Visa (subclass 407) is more suitable.
- If your goal is permanent residency, the 485 Visa offers a better pathway, as it provides work experience that can contribute to skilled migration eligibility.
Recent Changes and Updates
The Australian Government frequently updates immigration policies, including those related to the 407 and 485 visas. Recent changes include:
- Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485): The maximum age limit was reduced from 50 to 35 years to attract younger, highly skilled workers.
- English Language Requirements: Stricter English language requirements were introduced for both visas.
- Processing Time: Increased demand has led to longer processing times for both visa types. Applicants should check the latest processing estimates on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Choosing between the Training Visa (subclass 407) and the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) depends on your goals.
Contact NB Law Group today and know more about these visa options, you can make an informed decision and take the right step toward your career and residency goals in Australia.