In its most recent Migration Strategy, the Australian government made some changes to expedite the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa program. These changes will take effect on July 1, 2024. After completing their studies, students are permitted to live, study, and work in Australia with this visa. 

Graduate Work Stream 

Revised Age Limit:  The Post-Vocational Education Work Stream, formerly known as the Graduate Work Stream, now only accepts applicants who are 35 years of age or younger. Nonetheless, holders of British National Overseas and Hong Kong passports are qualified up to the age of 50. 

Eligibility Criteria: The Post-Vocational Education Work Stream is open to applicants who hold an associate’s degree, diploma, or trade qualification in a field included in the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). On the other hand, candidates with a degree or higher can apply straight through the Post-Higher Education Work Stream.

VISA Duration: Applicants who meet the requirements may stay in Australia for a maximum of 18 months, while holders of British National Overseas and Hong Kong passports may remain for up to 5 years.

Post-Study Work Stream

Revised Age Limit: The Post-Higher Education Work Stream, previously called the Post-Study Work Stream, has lowered its maximum eligible age to 35 years of age or younger. It remains under 50 years of age for holders of the British National Overseas Pass and the Hong Kong Pass. 

Stay Periods Change

  • Bachelor’s Degree – up to 2 years, Including Honors
  • Master’s Degree – Coursework & Extended: up to 2 years 
  • Master’s Degree – Research and Doctoral Degree – PhD: up to 3 years
  • For British National Overseas Passport and Hong Kong holders: up to 5 years

Stay Period Change for Indian Nationals as agreed in the Australian Indian – Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA): 

  • Bachelor’s Degree – up to 2 years, Including Honors
  • Bachelor’s Degree – up to 3 years, With First Class Honors in STEM, including ICT
  • Master’s Degree – Coursework, Extended & Research: up to 3 years 
  • Doctoral Degree – Ph.D.: up to 4 years

Second Post-Study Work Stream

This work stream has not changed other than calling itself the Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream. 

Replacement Stream

As of July 2025, it is anticipated that the replacement stream will end.

Consequently, these were the most recent changes to Australia’s Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa scheme. Individuals who hope to study in Australia must be aware of the impending modifications to the post-study work visa program and be ready for them in advance. Students can get in touch with KC’s Study Abroad Consultants in Colombo for comprehensive help with everything from the application to the VISA processing.