Introduction
Australia is one of the most preferred destinations for international students, not only because of its high-quality education but also due to the opportunities available after graduation. Upon completing an accredited course (lasting at least two years full-time), international students can remain in Australia with full work rights under the 485 visa.
To further extend their stay in Australia, many students opt to enroll in a Graduate Diploma course immediately after completing a Higher Education program. Following the Graduate Diploma, they typically apply for a 485 visa to extend their time in the country.
However, the Australian Government has announced a new rule regarding the 485 visa for Graduate Diploma holders, which will take effect from 14 December 2024.
What is a visa 485 Australia?
The 485 visa in Australia is designed for international students who have recently graduated with qualifications from a registered educational institution in Australia. This visa allows you to live and work full-time in the country. There are three streams available under this visa subclass:
- Post-Vocational Education Work Stream: This stream is for students who have recently graduated from a vocational education course (e.g., Certificate, Diploma, Advanced Diploma) in Australia. The occupation outcomes of the course must be listed on the skilled occupation list. Students can stay in Australia for up to 18 months under this stream.
- Post-Higher Education Work Stream: This stream is for students who have recently completed a higher education degree (e.g., Undergraduate, Graduate Diploma, Master’s, PhD) from an Australian institution. Depending on the degree, students can stay in Australia for 2 to 3 years under this stream.
- Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream: Students who have completed their higher education degree in an Australian regional area may be eligible for an additional 1 to 2 years of stay under this stream.
International students who have completed a Graduate Diploma are eligible to apply for the Post-Higher Education Work Stream and the Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream.
What is Graduate Diploma?
Graduate Diploma is designed for individuals who already completed a bachelor degree but want to upskill, gain expertise or specialise in a particular field. The duration of a graduate diploma course is normally from 6 months to 12 months, depending on the course.
Can Graduate Diploma holders apply for 485 visas?
From July 2024, the Graduate Diploma can be qualified to apply for a 485 visa. Below is the option for international students to stay longer in Australia.
- Step 1: Complete a Higher Education courses (for example, Bachelor/Master), normally lasting 3-4 years
- Step 2: Enroll in a Graduate Diploma program, which usually takes 6 months to 1 year.
- Step 3: Apply for a visa 485 to stay in Australia for at least 2 years
Before 14 Dec 2024, a Graduate Diploma is considered an eligible qualification if it is completed in the same academic year or the following academic year as your primary Higher Education course.
Recent changes to the 485 Visa for Graduate Diploma Holders
Effective from 14 December 2024, in addition to existing requirements, the Australian Government has introduced a new rule: the field of study for the Graduate Diploma must be closely related to your primary qualification.
For example:
- If you study a Graduate Diploma in Teaching, your primary qualification (e.g., a Bachelor’s degree) should be in a field related to Education.
- If you study a Graduate Diploma in Management and wish to apply for a 485 visa, your Bachelor’s degree should be in a field related to Business or Management.
This change emphasises the importance of aligning your Graduate Diploma with your prior studies when applying for a 485 visa.
What should International Students do toward 485 visa new rules starting December 2024?
You must apply for a 485 visa within 6 months of your graduation date.
- If you are studying a Graduate Diploma course in the same or the next academic year as your primary course (Bachelor, Master, or PhD) and the Graduate Diploma is related to your primary qualification, there is no issue. You can apply for a 485 visa within 6 months of completing your Graduate Diploma.
- However, if your Graduate Diploma is not related to your Bachelor, Master, or PhD program, there are two options:
- If you completed your primary course (e.g., Bachelor) within the last 6 months: You can apply for a 485 visa immediately after your primary course completion.
- If you completed your primary course more than 6 months ago: You will need an alternative pathway to qualify for a 485 visa. One common option is to progress your studies from the Graduate Diploma to a Master’s degree. After completing the Master’s program, you can apply for a 485 visa.
Wish to discuss the options to apply for a 485 visa? Contact our team at 07 3003 1899 or hello@soledu.net for free consultation.