Updates to the 485 Visa Eligibility for ICT50220 Diploma Students
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) Post-Vocational Education Work stream (formerly known as the Graduate Work stream) provides an essential pathway for international students to gain valuable post-study work experience in Australia. Recent changes to migration policies have raised questions regarding the eligibility of diploma holders for this visa.
In this blog post, we clarify these updates and their relevance to students who have completed or wish to complete one of our ICT50220 – Diploma of Information Technology (CRICOS Code: 105048M) courses at Mindroom Innovation. This is particularly important for those considering applying for a 485 Visa.
What Is the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream?
The Post-Vocational Education Work stream is designed for international students who have completed a diploma, trade qualification, or associate degree in Australia. This stream allows graduates to work in Australia temporarily and gain experience in their field of study. The 485 Visa ensures that these graduates have a legitimate way to attain this work experience.
Understanding these updates is crucial for students aiming to navigate the visa application process and plan their future careers in Australia.
Eligibility for Mindroom Innovation Students
Students who have completed the ICT50220 – Diploma of Information Technology are eligible to apply for the 485 Visa under the Post-Vocational Education Work stream, provided they meet the following criteria:
Basic Requirements: Applicants must meet the age limit of 35 years old (under 50 for Hong Kong or British National passport holders), health and character checks, and English proficiency standards taken within the last 12 months by the day of lodgement.
Qualification Level: The visa accepts diplomas, trade qualifications, or associate degrees.
Occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL): Graduates must align their qualifications with an occupation on the MLTSSL, such as ICT Business Analyst, Software Engineer, or Web Developer – https://www.legislation.gov.au/F2019L00278/latest/text
Positive Skills Assessment: A positive assessment from the Australian Computer Society (ACS) is required to demonstrate that your skills align with an MLTSSL occupation for the 485 Visa.
Australian Study Requirements: Students must have completed a CRICOS-registered course of at least 16 calendar months and 2 (two) academic years, with instruction conducted entirely in English, while holding a Student Visa.
Please refer to the Department of Home Affair website for more information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-graduate-485/post-vocational-education-work#Eligibility
Key Implications for Mindroom Innovation Students
For students at Mindroom Innovation, here’s what these updates mean:
Visa Application Steps: Be mindful of the six-month window after course completion to lodge your visa application. This ensures your studies remain valid for eligibility.
Qualification Recognition: Your ICT50220 – Diploma of Information Technology satisfies the qualification level and Australian study requirements for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream, hence making you an eligible candidate for the 485 Visa.
Skills Assessment: Obtaining a positive skills assessment from ACS is critical. This assessment ensures your diploma aligns with an eligible occupation on the MLTSSL as required for the 485 Visa.
Insights from Tuliany Teixeira, Registered Migration Agent
We consulted Tuliany Teixeira, a Registered Migration Agent at Resolve Migration (MARN 2418600), for expert guidance. Here’s her advice:
“The ICT50220 – Diploma of Information Technology meets the requirements for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream as long as students secure a positive skills assessment and align their qualifications with an MLTSSL occupation. While recent changes primarily affect the Post-Higher Education Work stream, students pursuing the Post-Vocational Education stream remain unaffected. However, seeking tailored migration advice is always recommended to navigate the 485 Visa application successfully.”
Plan Your Path Forward
Understanding migration policies is essential to making informed decisions about your future. Here’s how you can take action:
Act Early: Start your skills assessment and 485 Visa application process promptly to avoid missing key deadlines.
Consult a Registered Migration Agent: Seek professional advice to ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and understand the application process.
Leverage Mindroom Innovation Support: Reach out to our team for guidance to help support you secure your 485 Visa.
