More info: ozvisainfo.com/work-visa/
More info: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-graduate-485/graduate-work
Graduate Work Stream
This visa is for international students who have recently graduated with skills and qualifications that are relevant to specific occupations that Australia needs. It lets you live, study and work in Australia for 18 months while Hong Kong passport holders can live for five years.
Reversal of English Language Test requirements
Earlier today, several Migration Institute Of Australia (MIA) members received emails from the Temporary Graduate Visa Section reversing previous advice supplied on English language test requirements.
ToA Requirement
Evidence of appropriate English language ability is a Time of Application (ToA) requirement for all Subclass 485 applications.
English Test Booked
Previously, the Department had advised that applications could be lodged with evidence that an English language test had been booked or that it was not possible to undertake a test, due to COVID 19 restrictions.
Valid Tests
Test that are valid include International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based Test (TOEFL iBT),Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic),Occupational English Test (OET) and the Cambridge C1 Advanced test.
Reversal to ToA Requirements
Today, the section has advised that it was reverting to the ToA requirements. Many Subclass 485 applications would have been lodged in the intervening period between the first and today’s communication.
MIA Receives Assurance
The MIA has received the following assurances from responsible Director: The Department is attempting to find a Policy workaround for English being required at ToA and until the Regulations are amended.
ToD
No applications will be processed until the English language results are attached, effectively meaning English will be assessed at Time of Decision (ToD). This later assessment may not allow the applicant to try multiple tests.
Auto Granted
For those Subclass 485s that were auto-granted without evidence of English testing at ToA, the Department will not revisit those applications. The Department’s primary concern at this time is that applicants do not become unlawful.
Lodge Visa Application Over Weekend
If Migration Agents need to lodge Subclass 485 applications over the weekend, because the client’s current visa is expiring, they can lodge those applications.
More Information
If you would like to find our more or your visa is expiring soon and you would like to confirm the English test requirement,contact Oz Visa Info.