[28/04/2024]

The Australian Government plans to implement changes to the Temporary Graduate visa programs (485 visa) starting July 1, 2024, pending legislative approval. The key adjustments are as follows: Graduate Work stream: Renamed as the Post-Vocational Education Work stream. Maximum age limit reduced to 35 for most applicants, except for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders, who can apply until age 50. Applicants with a Bachelor or higher degree must apply through the Post-Higher Education Work stream. Maximum stay remains 18 months, extendable up to 5 years for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders. Post-Study Work stream: Renamed as the Post-Higher Education Work stream. Maximum age limit reduced to 35 for most applicants, with exceptions for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders. Stay duration varies based on degree level, with a maximum of 2 to 3 years, except for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders who may stay up to 5 years. Stay periods for Indian nationals are defined by the Australian Indian – Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA). Second Post-Study Work stream: Renamed the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream, with no other changes.