International students pursuing their education in regional Australia are now able to submit applications to extend their post-study visas.
Regional Australia excludes the country’s major cities, Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Depending on the area, students who have lived and studied in these areas for at least two years can apply for an one to two-year extension on their post-study visas, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
According to a recent announcement from the Australian Department of Home Affairs (DHS), international students in regional Australia who currently hold two-year post study visas, also known as the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa, can begin to apply for an extension in 2021.
In their statement, the DHS announced that,
“Eligibility will include international students who studied at a regional campus of a metropolitan university. The additional post-study work arrangements will become available in 2021, and will require ongoing residence in a regional area.”
Students living and pursuing their education in Category 2 areas will receive a one-year extension. The following have been classified as Category 2 areas:
- Perth
- Adelaide
- Gold Coast
- Sunshine Coast
- Canberra Newcastle/Lake Macquarie
- Wollongong/Illawarra Geelong and Hobart
On the other hand, international students residing in Category 3 areas can apply for a two-year extension. Category 3 areas are classified as regional centers and all other regional areas and locations.
On their website, the DHS announced, “[This] initiative will provide an additional incentive for international students to study at a regional institution and to live in regional areas post-study, boosting diversity and prosperity in regional Australia.”
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