International students have an opportunity to access longer stay in Australia to gain valuable work experience and explore a pathway to permanent residency with Temporary Graduate visa.
The Department of Home Affairs has made amendments to application requirements and visa criteria for all 485 visa streams to assist international students impacted by COVID-19 travel restrictions.
Another important change is making a second post-study work visa available for those 485 visa holders who lived and studied in regional Australia.

Two girls enjoying a day walk and milkshakes – taking selfie while enjoying a little break from their studies. Source: Getty Images/visualspace
Applicants applying for the second 485 visa need have completed their studies in a regional institution, and they need to live for at least two years in a regional area immediately before applying for their second post-study work visa.
The other stream of the visa – the Graduate Work Stream – is valid for 18 months. The occupation you nominate must be on the skilled occupation list and a skills assessment must be passed.