Are you an international student in Australia dreaming of extending your stay and gaining valuable work experience? The post study work visa Australia program might be your golden ticket. This sought-after visa allows you to live, work, and travel in Australia after completing your studies, giving you a chance to kickstart your career in one of the world’s most vibrant economies.

You’ll find this guide packed with essential information about the post study work visa Australia requirements, application process, and working rights. We’ll walk you through the different types of visas available, including the australia 5 years work visa option for certain graduates. Whether you’re wondering how to apply for post study work visa Australia or curious about the post study work visa Australia cost, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and explore your options for turning your Australian education into a launchpad for your professional future.

Overview of Post Study Work Visa Australia

The post study work visa Australia program is a golden opportunity for international students who’ve completed their studies in the country. It’s designed to give you a chance to stay, work, and gain valuable experience in one of the world’s most vibrant economies. This visa is more than just a piece of paper; it’s your ticket to kickstart your career in Australia.

What is a Post Study Work Visa?

When you come to Australia as an international student, you’re granted a Student Visa. This visa is specifically for pursuing your course or undergoing vocational training. However, once your studies are over, the validity of this visa expires. That’s where the post study work visa comes into play.

In Australia, this visa is officially known as the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). It replaced the earlier Skilled Graduate Visa in March 2013. This visa allows you to continue staying in the country for employment purposes after your studies are complete.

The post study work visa is essentially a work permit that you need to apply for to extend your stay in Australia. It’s designed to bridge the gap between your student life and your professional career, giving you the opportunity to gain meaningful work experience in the country.

Benefits of Post Study Work Visa

The post study work visa Australia program comes with a host of benefits that make it an attractive option for international students:

1. Extended Stay: Depending on your qualifications, you can stay and work in Australia for up to six years. This extended period allows you to plan your career more effectively and gain substantial work experience.
2. Work Flexibility: During your post study work visa period, you’re generally allowed to work in any field, not just your area of study. This flexibility allows you to explore different career paths and gain diverse experiences.
3. Travel Freedom: The visa allows you to travel to and from Australia as long as it’s valid. This means you can visit home or explore other countries without jeopardizing your visa status.
4. Pathway to Permanent Residency: While not guaranteed, the work experience you gain during this period can potentially help you in applying for permanent residency in the future.
5. Regional Opportunities: The Australian government has introduced measures to encourage international students to study and work in regional areas. This opens up more opportunities across the country, not just in major cities.
6. Full Work Rights: The visa provides you with full work rights, allowing you to work in any occupation or industry as long as it’s lawful employment.
7. Career Development: This period gives you the chance to apply your academic knowledge in real-world settings, enhancing your skills and making you more employable globally.
8. Cultural Experience: Living and working in Australia allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, improving your language skills and broadening your global perspective.

The post study work visa Australia program is a testament to Australia’s commitment to attracting and retaining international talent. It’s an opportunity for you to transition from being a student to a professional, all while experiencing the unique Australian way of life. Whether you’re looking to gain work experience, save money, or potentially settle in Australia, this visa can be your stepping stone to achieving those goals.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the post study work visa Australia, you need to meet specific requirements set by the Australian government. These criteria ensure that international students who wish to stay and work in Australia after their studies have the necessary qualifications and skills to contribute to the country’s workforce.

Age Requirements

The age requirements for the post study work visa Australia have recently been updated. For most applicants, the age limit is now 35 years. However, there are exceptions for certain groups:

• Masters degree (research) and Doctoral degree (PhD) graduates can apply if they’re under 50 years of age.
• Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders are also eligible if they’re under 50 years old.

This change aims to balance attracting international talent with supporting early career professionals. It’s worth noting that the 35-year age limit still applies to graduates of taught master’s, bachelor’s, associate degree, and vocational programs, effective from July 1, 2024.

Qualification Requirements

To qualify for the post study work visa Australia, you must meet the Australian Study Requirement (ASR). This means:

• You need to have completed a degree from a CRICOS-registered course.
• The ASR requires study in Australia in a registered course for at least two academic years.
• Your course must be conducted in English and completed in no less than 16 calendar months.
• You must meet the ASR within six months before submitting your visa application.

It’s important to note that due to COVID-19 concessions, online study undertaken outside Australia from February 1, 2020, to November 24, 2023, counts towards the ASR for existing student visa holders. This online study is counted from the time of the student visa grant.

English Language Proficiency

Demonstrating English language proficiency is a crucial part of the eligibility criteria. The Australian government has recently increased the minimum English language requirements for both Student and Temporary Graduate visas:

• For a Temporary Graduate visa, you now need an IELTS score of 6.5 (or equivalent), with a minimum score of 5.5 for each component (reading, writing, speaking, and listening).
• These new requirements apply to all visa applications lodged on and after March 23, 2024.
• You must provide evidence of completing an English language test meeting these requirements no more than one year before your visa application date.

It’s worth noting that the Australian government accepts scores from various English language tests. The IELTS test, both Academic and General Training versions, is widely accepted for visa purposes. Additionally, the IELTS One Skill Retake option is accepted by the Australian Department of Home Affairs for most visa subclasses, allowing you to retake any component of the test if needed.

Meeting these eligibility criteria is essential for your post study work visa Australia application. Make sure you carefully review and fulfill all these requirements before applying to increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Australian Study Requirement

To be eligible for the post study work visa Australia, you need to meet the Australian Study Requirement (ASR). This is a crucial aspect of your visa application, ensuring that you’ve gained substantial educational experience in Australia before transitioning to work.

Definition

The Australian Study Requirement is a set of criteria established by the Department of Home Affairs. It’s designed to ensure that international students have spent a significant amount of time studying in Australia and have completed courses that meet specific standards. Meeting this requirement is essential for your eligibility for the post study work visa.

Duration of Study

To satisfy the ASR, you must stay and study in Australia for at least 16 months. This period is calculated based on your actual time spent in the country while pursuing your studies. It’s important to note that this duration is tied to your physical presence in Australia, not just the length of your course.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s been a temporary change. If you’re an existing student visa holder, online study undertaken outside Australia from February 1, 2020, to November 24, 2023, counts towards the ASR. This concession applies from the time of your student visa grant.

Course Requirements

The courses you complete must meet specific criteria to be considered for the ASR:

1. CRICOS Registration: Your course must be listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). This ensures that your course meets the quality standards set by the Australian government for international students.
2. Course Duration: The CRICOS-registered course(s) you complete must have a total duration of at least 92 weeks. It’s crucial to understand that CRICOS determines the duration of your course, not how long you actually take to finish it. For example, if CRICOS states that a course should take 74 weeks, but you take 92 weeks to complete it, only 74 weeks will count towards the ASR. Therefore, extending your study won’t help you meet this requirement.
3. Language of Instruction: Your course must be conducted in English. This ensures that you’ve had significant exposure to English in an academic setting.
4. Completion Timeframe: You must meet the ASR within six months before submitting your visa application. This means that your studies should be recent and relevant to your current situation.
5. Skill Level: While there’s no specific occupations list for the post study work visa, you should ensure that you’re studying at the right levels. Your course should lead to a degree from a CRICOS-registered institution.
6. No Skills Assessment: Unlike some other visas, you don’t need to undergo a skills assessment to apply for the post study work visa. However, you still need to fulfill the English language proficiency requirements.

It’s worth noting that your field of specialization isn’t a determining factor for this visa. The post study work visa doesn’t have an occupations list, giving you flexibility in terms of the subjects you can study. However, it’s crucial to choose a recognized institution and course that meets the required skill levels before applying for the visa.

By understanding and meeting these requirements, you’ll be well-positioned to apply for your post study work visa in Australia. Remember, this visa is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable work experience, potentially leading to longer-term career prospects in Australia.

Types of Post Study Work Visas

Australia offers various post study work visa options to international students who have completed their studies in the country. These visas are designed to give you the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and potentially pave the way for a longer-term career in Australia.

Post-Higher Education Work Visa

If you’ve completed a higher education degree in Australia, you might be eligible for the Post-Higher Education Work Visa. This visa allows you to stay and work in Australia for up to six years, depending on your qualifications and the location of your studies.

The duration of your visa depends on the level of your degree:

1. Bachelor’s degree: 2 years
2. Master’s degree: 3 years
3. Doctoral degree: 4 years

However, if you’ve studied in a designated regional area, you might be eligible for an additional 1-2 years on your visa. This is part of Australia’s effort to encourage international students to study and work in regional areas, creating a more balanced distribution of opportunities across the country.

Post-Vocational Education Work Visa

For those who have completed vocational education and training (VET) courses in Australia, the Post-Vocational Education Work Visa is available. This visa typically allows you to stay and work in Australia for up to 18 months after completing your studies.

Both types of post study work visas offer you full work rights, allowing you to work in any occupation or industry as long as it’s lawful employment. This flexibility gives you the chance to explore different career paths and gain diverse experiences.

It’s worth noting that these visas also allow you to travel to and from Australia as long as they’re valid. This means you can visit home or explore other countries without jeopardizing your visa status.

The post study work visa can open doors to an exciting career in Australia. It offers you more options, more exposure, and increased employability. Whether you choose to work in major cities like Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney, or explore opportunities in regional cities like Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, or Canberra, you’ll have access to a world-class education and a great lifestyle.

These visas are part of Australia’s commitment to attracting and retaining international talent. They provide you with the opportunity to transition from being a student to a professional, all while experiencing the unique Australian way of life.

Remember, the specific details of your post study work visa will depend on your qualifications, the location of your studies, and the current immigration policies. It’s always a good idea to check the latest information from the Department of Home Affairs or consult with a registered migration agent to understand your options fully.

By taking advantage of these post study work visas, you can gain valuable work experience, potentially save money, and even explore pathways to permanent residency in Australia. It’s an excellent opportunity to kickstart your career in one of the world’s most vibrant economies.

Visa Duration and Extensions

The post study work visa Australia program offers you a fantastic opportunity to extend your stay and gain valuable work experience after completing your studies. The duration of your visa depends on your qualifications and where you studied in Australia.

Initial Visa Duration

The length of your initial post study work visa is determined by the level of your degree:

1. Bachelor’s degree: 2 years
2. Master’s degree: 3 years
3. Doctoral degree: 4 years

It’s worth noting that if you’ve studied in a designated regional area, you might be eligible for an additional 1-2 years on your visa. This is part of Australia’s effort to encourage international students to study and work in regional areas, creating a more balanced distribution of opportunities across the country.

The post study work visa gives you full work rights, allowing you to work in any occupation or industry as long as it’s lawful employment. This flexibility gives you the chance to explore different career paths and gain diverse experiences.

One of the great benefits of this visa is that it allows you to travel to and from Australia as long as it’s valid. This means you can visit home or explore other countries without jeopardizing your visa status.

Second Post-Higher Education Work Visa

In addition to the initial visa, you may be eligible to apply for a Second Post-Higher Education Work visa (formerly known as the Second Post-Study Work visa). This extension can add another year to your stay in Australia, giving you even more time to gain work experience and potentially pave the way for a longer-term career in the country.

To be eligible for this second visa, you need to meet specific criteria:

1. You must have lived, worked, and/or studied in a regional area while holding your first Post-Higher Education Work visa.
2. Your first visa must have been granted based on a degree or higher qualification from an Australian institution located in a regional area.

For example, if you studied in South Australia, which is considered a regional area, you would be eligible to apply for this second visa.

This extension is a great opportunity to stay back and work in Australia for a longer duration. It allows you to plan your career more effectively, giving you access to a wider range of areas to study and work.

The Australian government has recently announced updates offering extended work rights of up to 6 years for prospective Indian students looking to study in Australia. This is part of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement and applies to the duration of the Post Study Work Visa.

These changes are part of Australia’s new Migration Strategy, which includes updates to Temporary Graduate visas (TGV). Graduate visas are available to former student visa holders and provide full work rights, allowing international students to gain work experience in Australia.

As an international student, if you wish to work in Australia upon the completion of your studies for a longer duration (up to six years), then these visa options are designed for you. This extended period allows you to study, live, and work in the designated regional areas of the country, giving you more time to establish yourself professionally and personally in Australia.

Remember, while these visa options offer great opportunities, it’s always a good idea to check the latest information from the Department of Home Affairs or consult with a registered migration agent to understand your options fully. The specific details of your post study work visa will depend on your qualifications, the location of your studies, and the current immigration policies.

Application Process

Applying for your post study work visa Australia can seem daunting, but with the right preparation, you can navigate the process smoothly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the application process:

1. Gather all necessary documents before starting your application.
2. Visit the official ImmiAccount page.
3. Create a new ImmiAccount or log in if you already have one.
4. Fill out the visa application form and attach all required documents.
5. Provide details of any family members accompanying you.
6. Make the online payment for application charges using credit card, BPay, or PayPal.

Required Documents

To ensure a smooth application process, you’ll need to prepare the following documents:

1. Identification cards
2. Educational materials
3. Health insurance documents
4. Character records
5. Documentation for your companion, if applicable
6. Documentation for dependents under 18, if applicable
7. Documentation for dependents over 18, if applicable

Having these documents ready before you start your application will help streamline the process and avoid delays.

Application Fees

The cost of your post study work visa Australia application varies depending on the specific visa stream you’re applying for. Here’s a breakdown of the current fees:

• Graduate work stream temporary visa: AUINR 13,821.34
• Graduate visa for post-study job stream: AUINR 13,821.34
• Graduate visa for skilled workers: AUINR 33,925.11

It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the official Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date information.

Processing Times

The processing time for your post study work visa Australia application can vary depending on the specific visa stream and current workload of the Department of Home Affairs. Here are the estimated processing times:

• Graduate work stream temporary visa: 90 days to 4 months
• Graduate visa for post-study job stream: 70–90 days
• Graduate visa for skilled workers: 8 to 11 months

Keep in mind that these are estimated processing times, and individual applications may take longer or shorter depending on various factors. The Australian government generally recommends applying for your visa well in advance to ensure you receive a decision before your current visa expires.

To stay informed about the status of your application, you can use the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system. This tool allows you to check your visa details and conditions at any time.

Remember, the key to a successful application is thorough preparation and timely submission. By gathering all necessary documents, understanding the fees involved, and being aware of the processing times, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the post study work visa Australia application process.

Working Rights and Restrictions

The post study work visa Australia program offers you exciting opportunities to gain valuable work experience after completing your studies. This visa comes with a range of benefits and options that can help you kickstart your career in Australia.

Full Work Rights

When you’re granted a post study work visa, you’ll enjoy full work rights in Australia. This means you have the freedom to work in any occupation or industry, as long as it’s lawful employment. Whether you want to pursue a career directly related to your field of study or explore other areas, you have the flexibility to do so.

Your visa allows you to work full-time, part-time, or even start your own business. This flexibility is a significant advantage, giving you the chance to gain diverse experiences and potentially find your ideal career path.

Another great benefit is the ability to travel to and from Australia as long as your visa remains valid. This means you can visit home, explore other countries, or attend international conferences without jeopardizing your visa status.

It’s important to note that the duration of your work rights depends on your qualifications and where you studied in Australia. For instance, if you’ve completed a bachelor’s degree, you can typically work for up to two years. Master’s degree holders can work for three years, while doctoral degree graduates can stay and work for four years.

Interestingly, the Australian government has recently announced updates offering extended work rights of up to 6 years for prospective Indian students looking to study in Australia. This is part of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement and applies to the duration of the Post Study Work Visa.

However, it’s crucial to stay informed about any changes in immigration policies. For example, from mid-2024, the two-year extension of post-study work rights will no longer be available. This change is due to Australia’s evolving economic environment and considerations identified in the Migration Strategy.

Employer Sponsorship Options

While your post study work visa gives you full work rights, you might be wondering about longer-term options in Australia. This is where employer sponsorship comes into play.

Employer sponsorship can be a pathway to extend your stay in Australia beyond your initial post study work visa. However, it’s important to understand that this isn’t a guaranteed or automatic process. You’ll need to find an employer willing to sponsor you for a work visa.

When looking for job opportunities, keep in mind that some companies may have restrictions on hiring individuals without permanent residency or citizenship. This doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find work, but it might require more effort and persistence in your job search.

To increase your chances of securing employer sponsorship, consider the following steps:

1. Research companies that have a history of sponsoring international employees.
2. Network actively within your industry to make connections and learn about potential opportunities.
3. Gain relevant work experience during your post study work visa period to make yourself a more attractive candidate for sponsorship.
4. Stay informed about skills shortages in Australia, as employers in these areas may be more likely to consider sponsorship.

Remember, while employer sponsorship can be a pathway to longer-term stay in Australia, it’s not the only option. You might also consider other visa categories like Skilled Migration, depending on your qualifications and circumstances.

Ultimately, your post study work visa provides you with a valuable opportunity to gain work experience, explore career options, and potentially pave the way for a longer-term future in Australia. Make the most of this time to build your skills, expand your professional network, and explore the diverse opportunities Australia has to offer.