Australian Immigration Daily News

Important Updates to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The Migration Amendment (Graduate Visas No. 2) Instrument (LIN 24/086) 2024 introduces significant refinements to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), particularly in the Post-Higher Education Work (PHEW) stream. These amendments aim to streamline academic requirements and enhance the pathway for skilled graduates to contribute to Australia’s workforce.

Key Updates:

• Updated Academic Requirements: Applicants must have completed a degree from an Australian educational institution within the last six months. The degree must:

  • Be registered on CRICOS.
  • Involve at least 16 calendar months of study.
  • Cover a minimum of two academic years.
  • Be completed entirely in English.
  • Be undertaken while holding a valid student visa.

• Revised Definition of “Degree”: Graduate certificates are no longer accepted as eligible qualifications, ensuring alignment with higher academic standards.

• Institutional and Degree Clarifications: Educational institutions must now offer courses at the bachelor’s degree level or higher to satisfy the updated criteria.

These changes reflect the Australian Government’s commitment to maintaining high standards for skilled graduates while simplifying the migration process. This updated framework ensures that visa applicants meet rigorous academic benchmarks, supporting Australia’s migration and economic objectives.

These amendments apply to applications lodged after the commencement of the instrument.

Source: LIN24086.pdf and LIN24086-Explanatory-Statement.pdf