The Australian Government has recently announced significant changes to the Temporary Graduate visa programs, set to take effect from 1 July 2024. These changes aim to streamline the visa process, align visa categories with educational qualifications, and address the evolving needs of Australia’s workforce. Let’s delve into the key changes that will impact international students seeking to stay and work in Australia post-graduation.
Understanding the Key Changes to the Temporary Graduate Visa Program for 2024
Graduate Work Stream Renamed to Post-Vocational Education Work Stream:
One of the major changes is the renaming of the Graduate Work stream to the Post-Vocational Education Workstream. This change reflects the focus on vocational education and training (VET) qualifications and their relevance to Australia’s skill needs.
Age Limit Reduction for Post-Vocational Education Work Stream:
The maximum eligible age for applicants under the Post-Vocational Education Work stream will be reduced to 35 years or under. However, Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders can still apply if they are under 50 years of age.
Eligibility Criteria for Post-Vocational Education Work Stream:
Applicants must hold an associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification closely related to their nominated occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Those with a degree level qualification or higher will no longer be eligible for this stream and must apply through the Post-Higher Education Workstream.
Stay Duration:
Applicants under the Post-Vocational Education Work stream may stay for up to 18 months, except for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders who may be able to stay for up to 5 years.
Post-Study Work Stream Renamed to Post-Higher Education Work Stream:
The Post-Study Work stream will be renamed to the Post-Higher Education Work stream, emphasizing the focus on higher education qualifications.
Age Limit Reduction for Post-Higher Education Work Stream:
Similar to the Post-Vocational Education Work stream, the maximum eligible age for applicants under the Post-Higher Education Work stream will be reduced to 35 years or under. Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders can still apply if they are under 50 years of age.
Change in Stay Periods:
The ‘select degree’ 2-year extension will cease to exist. Stay periods for different qualifications will change:
Bachelor’s degree (including honours): Up to 2 years
Masters (coursework and extended): Up to 2 years
Doctorate (PhD) and master’s (Research) degrees: Up to three years
Stay Periods for Indian Nationals:
Stay periods for Indian nationals, as agreed in the Australian Indian – Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), will remain as follows:
Bachelor’s degree (including honours): Up to 2 years
Bachelor’s degree (with first-class honours in STEM, including ICT): Up to 3 years
Masters (coursework, extended and research): Up to 3 years
Doctoral degrees (PhD): Up to 4 years
Second Post-Study Work Stream Renamed:
The Second Post-Study Work stream will be renamed the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream, with no other changes to this stream.
Cessation of the Replacement Stream:
The Replacement stream will cease to exist, requiring applicants to explore other visa options.
So, the key changes to Australia’s Temporary Graduate Visa program for 2024 represent a significant shift in the country’s approach to welcoming international talent. These changes, including stream renaming, age limit reductions, and qualification requirements, highlight Australia’s commitment to aligning its visa system with the evolving needs of its economy and education sector. For those aspiring to study and work in Australia, navigating these changes can be complex. However, with the expert guidance and support of Reach World Immigration Consultancy Services (RWICS), one of the best immigration consultants in Perth, your visa application process can be made smoother and more efficient. Let RWICS help you turn your dream of studying and working in Australia into a reality.
