Changes to 485 Visas

Thinking about applying for a 485 Visa? Recent changes might affect you. From 25 November 2023, changes to the 485 Visa mean that:

1. You must be onshore in Australia at the time of making your application. You can no longer apply from overseas.
2. You do not need to be in Australia when the decision is made. Visas granted while you are overseas will include a date by which you must first enter Australia. This may be any period up to 12 months from the date your visa is granted.

Note: Home Affairs previously announced that if you studied offshore due to COVID-19 travel restrictions, you would no longer be able to use this study to meet the Australian Study Requirement (ASR). Following lobbying, this policy has now been amended.

 

From 25 November 2023, online study requirements reverted to pre-COVID settings. However, online study undertaken during the COVID concession period (1 February 2020 – 25 November 2023) will continue to count towards the Australian Study Requirement.

If you need relevant advice, you can contact the SUPRA Legal Service for help.

Disclaimer

This information is current as at December 2023 and is intended as a guide to the law as it applies to people who live in or are affected by the law as it applies in NSW. It does not constitute legal advice.