Skilled Graduate (subclass 485)

Overview

This 18 month temporary visa replaces the Graduate – Skilled (subclass 497) visa. Skilled – Graduate visa holders work and study with unrestricted rights and can apply for a permanent General Skilled Migration or employer sponsored visa at any time.

Eligibility

A number of requirements must be met to receive an onshore Skilled - Graduate (subclass 485) visa.

Required Visas

Applicants must hold one of the following visas when they apply:

• A student visa (excluding ELICOS, government sponsored, AusAid and Defence Sector Student visas)
• Either a Bridging visa A or Bridging visa B granted because a valid application for a visa other than an ineligible student visa has been made or a substantive visa other than an ineligible student visa -- and the applicant has held an eligible student visa for the last six months

Age and Language Requirements

Applicants must be under 45 years of age or hold a Skilled - Graduate visa.

Applicants must meet English language requirements of:

• Competent English
• Vocational English if the applicant's nominated occupation is a trade or;
• having evidence that the applicant has booked to sit an IELTS test
  

Required Qualifications

Applicants must nominate a 50 point or 60 point occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL). The applicant must also have applied for a skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for the applicant's nominated occupation.

The applicant must also have met the two year study requirement in the last six months with qualifications closely related to their nominated occupation. The applicant must have a suitable skills assessment in the nominated occupation and meet all health and character requirements.