Australia is one of the top destinations for international students, offering world-class education and excellent career opportunities. If you’re planning to study or work in Australia after graduation, you may need to apply for either a Student Visa (Subclass 500) or a Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). Understanding the differences between these visas and their application processes will help you choose the right path for your education and career goals.

What Is an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)?

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to live, study, and work in Australia while enrolled in an eligible full-time course at a recognized institution. It is the most common visa for international students who wish to study in Australia.

Key Features of the Student Visa

• Validity: Generally valid for the duration of your course, plus additional time after completion.
• Work Rights: Allows part-time work (48 hours per fortnight) while studying and full-time work during semester breaks.
• Family Inclusion: You can include eligible family members (spouse and children) in your application.
• Health Insurance Requirement: You must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
• English Language Requirement: Must meet English proficiency requirements (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, etc.).
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: You must prove that you intend to stay in Australia temporarily for study purposes.

Who Can Apply for a Student Visa?

• Individuals enrolled in a full-time course (bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, vocational courses, or English language programs).
• Applicants who meet the financial, health, and character requirements.

Application Process for Student Visa

1. Receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian educational institution.
2. Create an ImmiAccount on the Australian immigration website.
3. Gather Required Documents, including passport, CoE, English proficiency test results, and financial proof.
4. Submit Your Application Online and pay the visa fee.
5. Attend a Health Examination and provide a police clearance certificate.
6. Wait for Visa Approval (Processing times vary based on nationality and course type).

What Is a Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?

The Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is designed for international students who have completed their studies in Australia and wish to gain work experience. This visa allows graduates to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily.

Key Features of the Graduate Visa

• Validity: Ranges from 2 to 4 years, depending on your qualification.
• Work Rights: Full-time work rights with no restrictions.
• Health Insurance Requirement: Must have adequate Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC).
• No Sponsorship Needed: You do not need an employer to sponsor you.
• PR Pathway: Can lead to permanent residency via the Skilled Migration Program.

Types of Graduate Visas

1. Post-Study Work Stream
   • For students who have completed a bachelor’s degree, master’s, or PhD from an Australian institution.
   • Valid for 2 to 4 years, depending on qualification.
2. Graduate Work Stream
   • For students who completed vocational or trade qualifications relevant to occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
   • Valid for up to 18 months (24 months for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders).

Who Can Apply for a Graduate Visa?

• Applicants who have completed at least two years of study in Australia.
• Individuals whose qualifications match an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (for the Graduate Work Stream).
• Graduates applying within 6 months of course completion.

Application Process for Graduate Visa

1. Complete an Eligible Australian Course (minimum of 92 weeks of study).
2. Take an English Proficiency Test (if required).
3. Obtain Health Insurance (OVHC).
4. Gather Required Documents, including academic transcripts, passport, health and character certificates.
5. Submit Your Visa Application Online.
6. Await Visa Decision (processing time varies based on the stream and applicant’s circumstances).

Key Differences Between Student Visa and Graduate Visa

Which Visa Should You Choose?

Choosing between a Student Visa and a Graduate Visa depends on your current situation and future goals.

Choose a Student Visa If:

✅ You want to study full-time in Australia. ✅ You do not yet have an Australian qualification. ✅ You need to improve your skills before applying for a work visa. ✅ You want to gain limited work experience while studying.

Choose a Graduate Visa If:

✅ You have completed your studies in Australia and want to work. ✅ You need full-time work rights. ✅ You plan to apply for permanent residency. ✅ You have a qualification relevant to the Skilled Occupation List.

Final Thoughts

Both the Student Visa (Subclass 500) and the Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) serve important purposes for international students in Australia. A Student Visa is ideal if you’re pursuing a degree, while a Graduate Visa is perfect if you want to gain post-study work experience.

If you’re unsure which visa suits you best, Mahi Visa Services can guide you through the process. Our experts specialize in Australian visa applications and can help you achieve your study and work goals.

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