To my kababayans, international students dreaming of studying in Australia and securing a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) to achieve Permanent Residency (PR) have a bright path ahead. Australia’s thriving economy and need for skilled workers offer great opportunities despite some challenges. This article highlights the potential, covering competition, job alignment, processing times, and social media considerations, focusing on the rewards for determined students.
Opportunities with the 485 Visa
The Subclass 485 visa lets students who studied in Australia for two years work, study, and gain experience toward PR through visas like the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) or Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190). Australia’s 2023 Migration Strategy supports skilled workers, with more 485 visa holders by mid-2024 showing its popularity. A points system rewards skills, experience, and English skills, favoring fields like healthcare, engineering, or IT on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
485 Visa Eligibility Requirements
The 485 visa offers two streams: Post-Vocational Education Work Stream for diploma-level qualifications aligned with the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), and Post-Higher Education Work Stream for degree-level graduates. To qualify for the Subclass 485 visa, applicants must meet clear criteria:
Age:Â Be under 35 (or 50 for Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport holders).
Study:Â Completed at least two years of study in Australia at a CRICOS-registered institution within the last six months.
Qualification:Â Hold a relevant qualification (e.g., diploma for Post-Vocational Education Work Stream or degree for Post-Higher Education Work Stream).
English Proficiency:Â Provide evidence of English skills, such as IELTS 6.5 overall with 5.5 in each band (or equivalent test scores).
Health and Character:Â Meet health requirements and provide an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check.
Visa Status:Â Hold a valid student visa or have held one in the last six months, and apply from within or outside Australia depending on stream eligibility.
Health Insurance:Â Have Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC).
Documents:Â Submit identity proof, academic transcripts, and English test results.
Aligning Skills with Opportunity
Australia’s job market is full of potential for 485 visa holders, especially in fields like healthcare, education, and construction. The Skills in Demand (SID) visa, launched in December 2024, connects graduates to employer-sponsored roles in key industries. By choosing courses aligned with the MLTSSL, students can boost their PR chances and thrive in sectors eager for their skills.
Planning for Smooth Processing
Visa processing is thorough, ensuring fairness with case-by-case checks on documents, health, and character. While high application volumes may extend wait times, students can stay proactive by submitting complete applications. In early 2024, some universities reported delays, but these are opportunities to plan careers and studies strategically.
A Land of Possibility
Australia remains a welcoming destination for skilled migrants. The 485 visa offers a golden window to gain experience, strengthening PR applications through SID or GSM visas. Programs like the Economic Pathways to Refugee Integration show Australia’s commitment to diverse talent. By choosing MLTSSL-aligned courses, preparing accurate applications, and seeking migration agent guidance, students can confidently pursue their dreams in Australia’s thriving economy.
Felix Carao has been a practicing Registered Migration Agent (MARN 1069354) for 14 years, a Qualified Education Counselor (QEAC G028), and an Accredited Recruitment Professional (MRCSA-51889). For enquiries, you may call 0499 599 569 or email him at felix@allskills.com.au or visit www.allskills.comÂ
