Introduction
As an international student who has recently completed their education in Australia, the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) opens up a plethora of opportunities for you to gain valuable work experience, enhance your skills, and explore the vibrant culture of Australia. This visa is a stepping stone for those wishing to extend their stay in Australia post-study. Let’s delve into the various options and pathways available to you while you’re on a 485 visa.
Gain Professional Work Experience
The primary purpose of the 485 visa is to allow recent graduates to gain work experience in Australia. This is an excellent opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired during your studies in a real-world setting. Whether it’s a role directly related to your field of study or something more general, the experience will be invaluable for your resume and can significantly enhance your employability in the future.
Furthermore, most skill assessment bodies require you have a minimum of 1 year of work experience when applying for a skills assessment. In order to gain more points towards your PR application, a minimum of 1 to 2 year of onshore experience is required to get an extra 5 points, which is crucial in competitive occupations.
Pursue Further Education or Training
While the 485 visa is mainly for gaining work experience, some visa holders choose to further their education or seek professional training. This could be an opportunity to specialise in a niche within your field, undertake research projects, or gain additional qualifications that could benefit your career in the long run.
Additionally, you can study affordable courses with scholarships that lead to easier PR pathways such as Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Teaching, Diploma of Nursing, Advance Diploma of Information technology, Advance Diploma of Civil Construct design to name a few.
Occupations such as Nurses, Teachers, IT Specialists and Engineers stand a chance to get PR much easily with lower points in Australia. With some occupation not even requiring work experience to get a Skills assessment.
Travel and Explore Australia
With the flexibility that the 485 visa offers, you have the unique opportunity to explore Australia’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultures. Travelling around Australia not only allows you to experience the country’s beauty but also helps in building a deeper connection with the place that has been your home during your studies.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
For many, the 485 visa serves as a pathway to permanent residency in Australia. Gaining work experience in Australia, improving your English language skills, and building a professional network can significantly enhance your chances of qualifying for permanent residency. It’s essential to plan and understand the requirements for the permanent visa pathways available to you.
Stay Informed and Comply
While exploring these opportunities, it’s crucial to stay informed about the conditions of your 485 visa and comply with Australian laws and regulations. This includes maintaining your health insurance, informing the Department of Home Affairs about any changes in your circumstances, and ensuring that your visa remains valid throughout your stay.
Conclusion
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is a gateway to a world of opportunities for international students in Australia. Whether your goal is to gain professional work experience, explore further education, or embark on new adventures, it’s important to make the most of this time. With careful planning and a proactive approach, your post-study period in Australia can be both rewarding and impactful for your future career and personal growth.