The Australian government has announced its intentions to make it easier for foreign students graduating from universities in Australia to obtain work visas that will last from 2 to 4 years. This is in-line with the Skilled Graduate visa scheme to be implemented in 2013.
What’s interesting is that all graduates will be eligible for work visas for any occupation regardless of their field of study. This is contrary to the current Australian immigration program which is very strict allowing only a few skilled occupations: accounting, architecture, engineering, medicine, teaching, and course in trading – and can work in Australia for a maximum of 18 months, otherwise would need to leave Australia within a month after graduation.
Upcoming foreign graduates need to meet all health and security requirements and be competent in English to hold a work visa.
The Australian immigration minister, Chris Bowen addressed that this change will help improve Australia’s education industry internationally and will not make an impact on skilled occupations.
“These arrangements are not linked to skilled migration so applicants for this visa would not be required to nominate an occupation on the skilled occupation list or undertake a skills assessment,” the minister’s spokesperson stated.
If you are planning to migrate to Australia, email or call us at (+65) 6299 0246 for further assistance in understanding your visa options and plans for migrating to Australia.
You can also try our free migration assessment to let our consultants help you determine your eligibility for an Australian visa.
