NANNAPHAT SRITAKOONRUT
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship has announced changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa or Subclass 485 allowing students to continue their stay in Australia after finalising their studies, coming into effect on July 1.
Department of Immigration and Citizenship outreach officer Felicity Hayward said there were two streams to the new visa alterations, both of which would benefit international students.
“This new visa has two streams: Graduate Work stream which is available for international students who graduate with skills and qualification on the Skilled Occupation List and Post-Study Work stream which is available to new students whose first Student visa to Australia must have been granted on or after 5 November 2011 only,” she said.
“This visa might be the first option that is available for you if you are not eligible to apply for permanent resident.
“This visa is granted for 18 months up to 4 years…it might be a great idea if you want to have some Australian work experience.”
Ms. Hayward said that not everyone could apply for this visa and that was only temporary visa.
International students who want to apply have to meet a requirement of two years study in Australia the last six months, must be younger than 50 years old, competent in English, and have valid health insurance in Australia.
“The skill programme changes each year to update the current labour market so just make sure that you study something that you enjoy rather than necessary for migration.”