485 Graduate Work Stream visa

The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) in Australia has several streams, including the Graduate Work Stream. Here are the key points regarding the Graduate Work Stream visa:

  1. Purpose: The Graduate Work Stream visa is designed for international students who have recently graduated from an Australian educational institution with skills and qualifications that are relevant to specific occupations in demand in Australia's labor market.
  2. Eligibility:
    • Applicants must have completed their studies in Australia within the last six months before applying for the visa.
    • They must hold an eligible qualification, such as a degree, diploma, or trade qualification, from an Australian educational institution.
    • The qualification must be closely related to an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
  3. Skills Assessment: Before applying for the Graduate Work Stream visa, applicants must obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for their nominated occupation. The skills assessment verifies that the applicant's qualifications and skills meet the requirements for the nominated occupation.
  4. English Language Proficiency: Depending on the nominated occupation and the applicant's country of passport, English language proficiency may be required. Applicants may need to demonstrate proficiency through accepted English language tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Occupational English Test (OET), Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT), Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic, or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) test.
  5. Duration: The Graduate Work Stream visa is granted for a period of up to 18 months, depending on the applicant's circumstances.
  6. Work Rights: Holders of the Graduate Work Stream visa are permitted to work in Australia for the duration of their visa and are granted unlimited work rights.
  7. Pathways to Permanent Residency: The Graduate Work Stream visa provides a pathway to permanent residency in Australia through the Temporary Residence Transition stream of the Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa or the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) if certain requirements are met.

It's essential to review the specific requirements and eligibility criteria for the Graduate Work Stream visa and consult with a registered migration agent for personalized advice and assistance with the visa application process.