The Subclass 485 Post-Study Work Visa is a fantastic opportunity for international students who have recently graduated from an Australian educational institution. This visa allows you to stay in Australia and gain valuable work experience, enhancing your career prospects and paving the way toward potential permanent residency. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Subclass 485 visa, including eligibility criteria, the application process, and the benefits of holding this visa.
What is the Subclass 485 Post-Study Work Visa?
The Subclass 485 visa is a temporary visa that allows international students who have completed their studies in Australia to live, study, and work in the country for a period after graduation. The visa has two main streams:
- Post-Study Work Stream: For international students who have recently graduated from an eligible Australian institution with a degree.
- Graduate Work Stream: For international students who have recently graduated with skills and qualifications that relate to an occupation on the skilled occupation list.
This blog will primarily focus on the Post-Study Work Stream.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Subclass 485 Post-Study Work Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
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Study Requirement: You must have completed a course that is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) that lasts at least two academic years (92 weeks) and leads to a degree, diploma, or trade qualification.
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Visa Application Timeline: You must apply for the visa within six months of receiving your results or obtaining your qualification.
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Age Requirement: You must be under the age of 50 when you apply.
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English Language Proficiency: You need to demonstrate a competent level of English. This can typically be proven through an English language test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
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Health Insurance: You must hold adequate health insurance for the duration of your stay in Australia.
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No Visa Conditions Breach: You must not have held a Subclass 485 visa in the past. Additionally, you must comply with the conditions of your previous visa(s) while in Australia.
Application Process
Applying for the Subclass 485 Post-Study Work Visa involves several steps:
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Gather Required Documents:
- A valid passport.
- Evidence of your qualification (degree certificate, transcripts).
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Health insurance policy documents.
- Any other documents specified by the Department of Home Affairs.
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Create an ImmiAccount:
- To apply for the visa, you’ll need to create an account on the Department of Home Affairs website.
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Complete the Application:
- Fill out the online application form with accurate information. Be careful to provide all required details and submit the necessary documents.
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Pay the Visa Fee:
- The current visa application fee for the Subclass 485 visa is approximately AUD 1,650, but check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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Submit the Application:
- After ensuring all details are correct, submit your application through your ImmiAccount.
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Await Decision:
- Processing times can vary, but it generally takes around 4 to 6 months for the Department of Home Affairs to process your application. During this time, you may be asked to provide additional information or attend a visa interview.
Benefits of the Subclass 485 Visa
Holding a Subclass 485 Post-Study Work Visa comes with several advantages:
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Work Experience: The visa allows you to gain valuable work experience in Australia, which can significantly enhance your career prospects, both in Australia and internationally.
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Family Inclusion: You can include eligible family members in your visa application, allowing them to work and study in Australia as well.
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Pathway to Permanent Residency: The experience gained while on the Subclass 485 visa can help you qualify for various permanent residency pathways, such as the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) or the Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186).
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Flexibility: You can work in any occupation and for any employer in Australia during the visa duration, giving you the freedom to explore job opportunities that match your skills and interests.
Conclusion
The Subclass 485 Post-Study Work Visa is an excellent opportunity for international graduates looking to build their careers in Australia. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits of this visa, you can make informed decisions about your future in Australia.
If you're considering applying for the Subclass 485 visa, make sure to prepare your documents carefully and stay updated on any changes to immigration policies. With the right planning, this visa can be your gateway to a successful career in Australia!
