It is a complex affair to navigate the Australian visa system, especially when extending the completion of their studies by international students. The Temporary Graduate visa, most commonly known as the 485 Visa, offers eligible graduates the opportunity to stay in the country for a certain period. It allows them to gain some work experience or further study.
While the terms “485 Visa” and “485 visa extension” are often used interchangeably, it is crucial to note that there is a difference between the two. The former refers to the initial grant, and the latter refers to prolonging its validity.
This guide gives a comprehensive overview of how to apply for a 485 visa extension. Join us to learn more.
Understanding the 485 Visa Extension and Its Purpose
Recent 485 visa extension updates have introduced pathways for certain eligible applicants. This caters to filling the skill shortage in Australia while enabling graduates to contribute to the economy. First, you would need to establish which stream applies to you as a basis to qualify for the extension.
485 Visa Streams for Extension
| Stream | Applicability |
|---|---|
| Graduate Work stream | This is available to international students with eligible qualifications and skills in occupations listed on the relevant skilled occupation lists. |
| Post-Study Work stream | This group is often available to candidates who have graduated with a qualification from an Australian institution. The eligibility criteria are subject to change, so refer to the current update. |
To get an idea of which category you fall into, check the 485 visa extension list.
485 Visa Extension Eligibility Criteria
485 visa extension eligibility varies depending on the stream you are applying under. Generally, you have to:
- Possess a current 485 visa or have recently held one for some streams.
- Satisfy certain study requirements.
- Satisfy certain work or location requirements, especially for the Second Post-Study Work stream.
- Satisfy health and character 485 visa extension requirements.
- Be covered by appropriate health insurance.
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for 485 Visa Extension
To get an overview of how to apply for 485 visa extension step by step, check out this section:
Step 1: Establish Eligibility
Read everything on the official Department of Home Affairs website about a relevant stream you may fit into. That’s the first thing to check.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
A proper collection of required paperwork is essential for a 485 visa extension application. This usually involves identity documents like passports, which are used to verify identity and nationality. Besides that, you are requested to present proof of all qualifications acquired through studying by producing a graduation certificate accompanied by an academic transcript as evidence for the fulfillment of study requirements.
If that is the case, you may be required to bring proof of your proficiency in the English language as assessed in one of the recognized tests. Additionally, you will need to prove that you have appropriate health coverage.
You may be expected to undergo an authority skills assessment so that your skills and qualifications can become valid for Australia’s Graduate Work stream.
Step 3: Create an ImmiAccount
Before you complete your actual application online, create an ImmiAccount from the Department of Home Affairs’s official site. It is the safest and most secure place to apply for your visa.
Signing up is free and quite easy: fill out a few details, create a password, and in you go. You can then lodge forms, upload documents, and even communicate electronically with the Department of Home Affairs.
Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form
Holders of ImmiAccount can log in and be directed to the specific online form you may use to apply for an extension of 485 visas. Remember to fill out each section of the form very carefully and ensure that all the details you give are correctly spelled, consistent with the documents you use to support your application, and truthful. Any mistakes and/or wrong information might cause a delay or denial of an application.
Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents
Once you have submitted the online application form, you must upload all necessary supporting documents through your ImmiAccount. Your scanned documents should be clearly readable and in accordance with the Department of Home Affairs’s required formats (such as file types and size limitations). To make this easy, organize all your documents clearly and make labels before uploading.
Step 6: Pay the Application Fee
To process your 485 visa extension application, you must pay a non-refundable application fee. You should pay this fee online via ImmiAccount using a credit card, debit card, or other means of payment. To ensure the latest current fee amount, refer to the Department of Home Affairs website because fees often vary over time.
Step 7: Final Application Submission
With all the steps above done diligently, you have completed the application form, attached all supporting documents, and also paid the fee for your application. Now, it is time to submit your application. This happens electronically via the ImmiAccount. Before clicking the button to apply, the information entered should be reviewed thoroughly, and all supporting documents uploaded with a final view should be uploaded to ensure the completeness and accuracy of the information given. After lodging, you usually receive a receipt confirmation.
Step 8: Follow Your Application
After lodging, you can easily follow up on your application by tracking it through your ImmiAccount. The system will always keep you in the know about how your application is doing, giving you requests for more information and approximate processing times so you can process accordingly. Potential issues can even be responded to promptly to avoid disruptions.
Step 9: Track the Process
After submitting your 485 visa extension application, you may track its progress in a convenient manner by using the ImmiAccount. The online tracking system gives information on various stages of processing. You can track when the application was received, if it is under assessment, or other relevant information. You usually see when your application was received when it is being assessed, and when there are any other updates. Checking your ImmiAccount from time to time helps you stay updated and address issues if any arise.
Provide Additional Information if Required
In the process of evaluating your application, the Department of Home Affairs may require more information or documentation. These could be due to the requirement for further details on certain issues in your application. Such requests must be responded to promptly and exhaustively. Failure to deliver the information as requested within the set time might delay your application or even deny it.
485 Visa Extension Processing Time and Charges
The 485 visa extension processing time will vary based on other factors, such as the number of applications and particular circumstances. Visit the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest processing times.
The 485 visa extension fee differs. Check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest information on current application charges.
Related Post: Important FAQs about Temporary Graduate Visa 485
Summing Up
The above process provides a general overview regarding how the 485 visa extension procedure should be pursued. Of course, it’s always best to go straight to the Department of Home Affairs site for the most updated and proper information. An even better prospect would be to consult with a registered migration agent perth, if you are trying to increase your prospects on an application.
