Australia has introduced extensions to the Graduate Development Visa (subclass 485) to allow international graduates more time to work and gain experience, addressing the country's skills shortages. These extensions include increased visa durations for specific degree holders and additional time for graduates from regional areas, along with higher work hour caps for international students. The initiative aims to enhance the contribution of graduates to the local economy and support the growth of regional communities.

1. Graduate
Development
Visa (Subclass
485) Extensions
for Post-study
VISA Holders

2. Australia has always been a preferred
destination for students looking to pursue
higher education. The country offers
world-class universities and a
multicultural environment that attracts
students from all over the world. To
encourage international students to study
in Australia, the government has recently
introduced new extensions to the Graduate
Development Visa (subclass 485).
Introduction

3. The Graduate Development Visa allows international students to live and work in
Australia after completing their studies. This visa is an excellent opportunity for
graduates to gain valuable work experience and potentially apply for permanent
residency in Australia.
Australia is facing the second highest skills shortage in the developed world, according
to the latest OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development).[1]
Consequently, the Australian government has announced three initiatives to address
workforce shortage, impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Firstly, by extending post-
study work visa for international students who have graduated from an Australian
higher education provider in certain nominated occupations. Secondly, increasing the
work hours cap for international students.[2] Thirdly, by extending post-study work
visas for certain regional visa holders.

4. From 1 July 2023, second post-study work stream
possibilities allow an extension between one and
two years of first post-study work stream or
replacement stream (subclass 485) in selected
occupations.
Extension for qualifications
and certain nominated
occupations

5. The first Post-study work stream is for
international students who graduated with a
degree from an Australian institution. While
a replacement stream visa is for current or
former Temporary graduate visa holders who
lost time during the COVID-19 travel
restrictions.
The extension is applicable for areas of
verified skill shortage for bachelor’s and
master’s degrees. While all Doctors
qualifications are applicable, regardless of
field.

6. For selected bachelor’s degrees, the visa duration
will increase from two years to four years. For
selected master’s degrees, the visa duration will
increase from three years to five years. And for all
doctoral qualifications, the visa duration will
increase from four years to six years.
Regarding bachelor and master, to be qualified
for the extension, the visa holder occupation
must be listed in the Skills Priority List by the
Jobs and Skills Australia and the Department of
Education.

7. The occupations identified in the 2022
Skills Priority List includes occupations in
resources, health, ICT, engineering,
construction, teaching, agriculture, and
food technology. Nevertheless, the list is
subjected to an annual review, so it can
reflect the changes in the labour market.

8. Extension for Regional Study
New extensions of the Graduate Development Visa
also apply to international students who have
completed their studies in regional areas of
Australia. Under this new policy, graduates who
studied in regional areas will receive an additional
year on their visa, allowing them to stay and work
in Australia for up to 3 years. This extension will
provide graduates with more time to gain valuable
work experience and potentially apply for
permanent residency.

9. In addition, the Australian government has increased the
allowable work hours cap from 40 hours to 48 hours per
fortnight for international students from 1 July 2023. So
international students can financially support themselves
while studying and contribute to Australia’s workforce
needs.
To be eligible for the Graduate Development Visa
extension, graduates must have lived and worked in a
regional area for at least two years while holding a valid
student visa. This requirement is aimed at encouraging
graduates to contribute to the local community and
economy by living and working in regional areas.

10. The new regional extensions to the Graduate
Development Visa are part of the government's
efforts to encourage international students to
study and live in regional areas of Australia.
Regional areas of Australia offer a high quality of
life, lower living costs, and unique cultural
experiences that students cannot find in major
cities.
By encouraging international students to study in
regional areas, the government aims to address the
population imbalance in Australia and support the
economic development of regional communities.

11. In conclusion, the new extensions to the Graduate Development Visa are a significant
opportunity for international students. This visa extensions provide graduates with more
time to gain valuable work experience, potentially apply for permanent residency, and
contribute to the local economy and community. It is a win-win situation for graduates
and regional communities alike, and it will undoubtedly strengthen Australia's
reputation as a world-class education destination. Top of Form
If you are not sure whether you qualify for an extension of your Graduate Development
Visa, or whether you are qualified to increase your work hours while studying, contact
one of our expert migration lawyers at TooRoo Migration Lawyers today.

12. Immigration law is an area that is complex and has
little room for error and using an
immigration lawyer Gold Coast, Australia will
ensure the protection of your visa application and
future in Australia. Here at TooRoo Migration
Lawyers, our team of expert solicitors will provide
sound and thorough advice on visa applications,
applying for citizenship, and understanding your legal
rights and responsibilities.
Contact us for any
Immigration Needs