If you’re on a Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa and you’ve been living and working in regional Australia, you may be eligible for a 485 Regional Extension. But the eligibility requirements can be confusing. Here’s what migration professionals have shared about the key questions.
What Is the 485 Regional Extension?
The 485 Regional Extension allows holders of the Subclass 485 Post-Higher Education stream visa to apply for an additional year on their visa if they’ve been living and working in a regional area of Australia. It’s designed to encourage international graduates to stay in regional areas.
Do the Two Years Have to Be on the 485 Visa?
One of the most common questions is whether the two years of living and working in a regional area need to have been spent on the first 485 visa specifically. Based on the legislation, the requirement is that the applicant has lived and worked in a regional area for at least two years — but this time does not necessarily need to be on the 485 visa.
This means that time spent on other visas (such as a student visa) while living and working in a regional area may count towards the two-year requirement. This is significant because it means some applicants could be eligible to apply for the extension as soon as they receive their first 485 visa, if they’ve already accumulated two years of regional residence.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the 485 Regional Extension, you generally need to:
- Hold a Subclass 485 visa (Post-Higher Education stream)
- Have completed eligible studies in a regional area
- Have lived and worked in a regional area for at least two years
- Be in Australia at the time of application
What Counts as a Regional Area?
The definition of a “regional area” for the purpose of the 485 extension includes all of Australia except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Cities like Adelaide, Perth, Gold Coast, Canberra, and most other areas are considered regional.
However, it’s important to check the specific regional designation that applied at the time of your studies, as definitions have changed over the years.
How Long Is the Extension?
The regional extension grants an additional one or two years depending on where you studied and worked. The extension is added to the end date of your current 485 visa.
If you’re considering the 485 Regional Extension, it’s worth getting advice to confirm your eligibility and ensure your evidence of regional residence and work is properly documented.
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Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or migration advice. Visa rules and policies can change, and individual circumstances vary. We recommend booking a consultation with one of our registered migration agents to discuss your specific situation.
Reviewed by VisaTasker Migration Services
MARA Registered Migration Agent · MARN 2318017
This article is written and reviewed by VisaTasker Migration Services, a MARA-registered migration agency based in Australia. As registered agents, we are bound by the Migration Agents Code of Conduct and required to provide accurate, up-to-date advice based on Australian migration legislation. Information is reviewed against the latest Department of Home Affairs policy.
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