An extension of the post-study work arrangements from 2013.

An extension of the post-study work arrangements from 2013.

Post-study work arrangements for university graduates will be available for:

1. Graduates who complete their Bachelor degrees after at least two academic years’ study in Australia will be eligible for a two year stay;
2. Graduates who complete their Masters degrees after at least two academic years’ study in Australia will be eligible for a three year stay; and
3. Graduates who complete their PhD after at least two academic years’ study in Australia will be eligible for a four year stay.

The existing Temporary Skilled Graduate (Subclass 485) visa, which provides for a stay of 18 months for those with qualifications in eligible fields of study, will still be available.

The announcement also states that post-study work arrangements would apply to Bachelor or higher degree graduates from other education providers accredited to offer degree level programs, in addition to university graduates.

Work and Holiday Visa for Argentina

Minister Bowen today announced that Argentina has been added to the list of countries which have access to the Work and Holiday (Subclass 462) visa arrangements.

Work and Holiday visas are currently available for Bangladesh, Chile, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey and the USA.

On 12 October the Minister announced that Papua New Guinea (PNG) would be added to the list.

PNG will have 100 visas, and Argentina 500.

The actual date of these visas being available has yet to be announced.

Source: Migration Institute of Australia

New English Language Tests for Student Visas from 5 November 2011

From 5 November 2011, the department will accept English language test results from the following alternative tests to the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for Student visa purposes taken in any country:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) test (also known as Certificate in Advanced English).

Source: http://immi.gov.au