In response to evolving immigration policies, the Australian government has introduced several key changes to the Student Visa (Subclass 500) and Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). These changes aim to streamline processes, adjust eligibility criteria, and ensure that visa holders are well-prepared for life in Australia.

Overview of Visa Changes

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Key changes to the Student Visa (Subclass 500) have been introduced in 2024, impacting fees, eligibility, financial capacity, and English language requirements.

Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

For international graduates, the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) changes focus on age limits, streamlining of visa streams, length of stay, and English language requirements.

Detailed Changes to Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Fee Increases (1 July 2024)

• Application Fee: Increased from $710 to $1,600.

Eligibility Restrictions

• Not Eligible Onshore: Temporary Graduate, Visitor, and Maritime visa holders.

Financial Capacity Requirements (10 May 2024)

• Increased Requirement: From $24,505 to $29,710.

English Language Requirements (23 March 2024)

• Minimum IELTS Score: Increased from 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent).
• Packaged ELICOS Students: Minimum IELTS score increased from 4.5 to 5.0 (or equivalent).
• University Foundation/Pathway Programs: Minimum IELTS score will be 5.5 (or equivalent).

Detailed Changes to Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

Age Limit Adjustments (1 July 2024)

• General Applicants: Age limit decreased from 50 to 35 years.
• PhD Students: Still eligible until age 50.
• Hong Kong and British National Overseas Passport Holders: Eligible until age 50.

Streamlining of Visa Streams

• Post-Vocational Education Work: Formerly Graduate Work Stream.
• Post-Higher Education Work: Formerly Post-Study Work Stream.
• Second Post-Higher Education Work: Formerly Second Post-Study Work Stream.
• Replacement Stream: Removed.

Length of Stay Modifications

• Post-Vocational Education Work Stream: 18 months.
• Post-Higher Education Work Stream:
  • Bachelor’s by coursework: 2 years.
  • Master’s by coursework: 2 years.
  • Master’s by research: 3 years.
  • PhD: 3 years.
  • Hong Kong and British National Overseas Passport Holders: Up to 5 years.
• Indian Nationals:
  • Bachelor’s Degree (including Honours): 2 years.
  • Bachelor’s Degree (First class honours in STEM, including ICT): 3 years.
  • Master’s Degree (Coursework, extended, and research): 3 years.
  • Doctoral Degrees (PhD): 4 years.

English Language Requirements (23 March 2024)

• Test Validity: Decreased from 3 years to 1 year.
• Minimum IELTS Score: Increased from 6.0 to 6.5 (or equivalent), with a minimum score of 5.5 for each component.

Understanding the latest changes to student and temporary graduate visas is essential for a smooth study experience in Australia. Compliance with the new rules will help secure your future in the country. For expert advice and assistance with your visa process, reach out to Visawizer Education and Migration Services today.