Changes to the Subclass 485 Graduate Temporary Visa

On the 31 March 2015, The Department of Immigration and Border Protection announced changes to the Subclass 485 Graduate Temporary visa which will come into effect on the 18 April 2015.

These changes relate to the English language and to the medical examination requirements and will apply to both the Graduate Work Stream and the Post Study Work Stream.

 

English Language requirement

 Currently, at the time of lodgement of the Subclass 485 visa application, (unless an applicant holds a specified passport) applicants must demonstrate that they have Competent English which can be evidenced by achieving a score of 6 in the 4 components of the IELTS test or the required score in the range of English language tests specified by The Department.

The new requirements for Competent English will be specified via a Legislative Instrument which is yet to be released. It is expected that there may be a minimum of score of 5 or 5.5 in each band.

Once the required scores for the English Language requirement are available, we will share these with you.

Medical Examinations

Currently, at the time of lodgement of the Subclass 485 visa application, applicants must provide evidence that they have made arrangements to undergo the required medical examinations. Under the new requirements, at the time of lodgement of the Subclass 485 visa application, applicants are not required to provide evidence of arrangements for health checks as these can now be undertaken after the visa application has been submitted.

 Conclusion

These changes are welcome changes to the Subclass 485 visa program and are reflective of Government’s commitment to the Student Visa Program.