Overview of Temporary Graduate Visa Program Changes:
The Australian Government plans to modify the Temporary Graduate visa program with changes effective from 1 July 2024, subject to legislative approval. These modifications aim to better align visa conditions with current educational and occupational demands.
Post-Vocational Education Work Stream (formerly Graduate Work Stream):
- This stream will be renamed to the Post-Vocational Education Workstream, with an age eligibility cap set at 35 years, except for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders who are eligible up to 50 years of age.
- Eligibility criteria require possession of an associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Individuals with degree-level qualifications must apply through the Post-Higher Education Workstream.
- The maximum permissible stay is 18 months, which extends to 5 years for eligible Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders. Further details are available on the Skill Occupation List.
Post-Higher Education Work Stream (formerly Post-Study Work Stream):
- The age limit for this stream has been adjusted to 35 years, with the same exceptions for certain passport holders as above.
- The stream discontinues the extension for ‘select degrees.’
- Revised stay durations are as follows:
- Bachelor and honours degrees: up to 2 years
- Master’s degrees (coursework and extended): up to 2 years
- Master’s (research) and PhD degrees: up to 3 years
- Provisions under the AI-ECTA agreement extend these durations for eligible Indian nationals.
- Eligible Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders may be granted a stay of up to 5 years.
Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream:
- The stream retains its structure but under a new name, reflecting the broader program updates.
Replacement Stream:
- This stream will be discontinued from 1 July 2024.
Conclusion:
The Temporary Graduate visa program updates are part of Australia’s immigration policy adjustments to match the evolving economic landscape and skill demands.
For detailed discussions on state and territory nominations and to stay updated with the latest information, please contact our expert team at aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com to arrange an online consultation.
