The Minister for Immigration has officially announced new policies for the Subclass 485 visa today

Major good news!

Subclass 485 visa holders stranded overseas (Visa holders)

Due to border closures, if you were stranded overseas and your Subclass 485 visa expired on or after 1 February 2020 — whether you previously held or currently hold one, meaning whether it has already expired or has not yet expired — you may apply once for a new replacement Subclass 485 visa of the same duration as your original visa (some 485 visas were initially 2 years or 1.5 years)

Coursework master’s — 3-year Subclass 485

Graduates of coursework master’s programmes will be eligible to apply for a 3-year Subclass 485 — currently the standard is 2 years. This also does not affect the ability to extend by 1 or 2 years in a regional area;

In addition, VET technical training course graduates will be able to apply for a 2-year Subclass 485. As for whether a skills assessment will still be required for VET applicants or whether any adjustments are made, we will update you once further information becomes available.

Online coursework completed overseas

continues to be recognised as Australian study

Many details of these visa changes have yet to be announced, such as specific requirements and commencement dates.

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In addition, the government is creating a new migration pathway expected to benefit 20,000 people!

According to AFR reporting, targetingemployer-sponsored visas in the Health and Hospitality sectors not currently on the long-term occupation list,the Department of Home Affairs plans to add a new pathway — benefiting 20,000 people

Overall, Australia is working to address post-pandemic skills shortages,progressively building a migration plan set to benefit 200,000 people, which may include employer-sponsored applicants, international students, and other temporary visa holders,the early signs are emerging — we look forward to seeing it unfold!

If you want to get a head start on your visa application and planning,

If you want to learn more about master’s programmes in Australia,

If you want to plan a skills training programme that combines study and work,

For visa application enquiries, please add the relevant customer service team below based on your study location, previous location, or intended destination:

Here is a quick tips article — FAQ for Subclass 485 holders returning to Australia from overseas:Subclass 485/500/491/489 and other visa holders overseas preparing to return to Australia — still have questions? Make sure to read this article.

This policy also makes it easier for Canberra-based international students overseas to return and apply for state nomination, particularly alongside the state nomination compensation policy:Canberra State Nomination ‘Amnesty’ — welcoming Australia’s border reopening! Generous Matrix points on offer — it’s time to come back and migrate!

We wish everyone a smooth return to Australia — hope to see you here soon!

A WeChat group for return-to-Australia information has already been set up

Students who wish to join

can add our customer service and note: Return to Australia

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