According to media reports, the Australian government is going to announce a concession for the 485 visa holders.
According to Sky News, the Department of Home Affairs will allow 485 visa holders to apply for a replacement visa if they have not been able to travel due to Covid-19 restrictions.
“485 visa holders who have been unable to travel to Australia because of covid will be able to apply for a replacement visa. Applies to all visas that expired on or after 1 Feb 2020. It will affect an estimated 31,000 people. Expecting formal announcement soon,” Sky News reported.
Department of Home Affairs has not commented on the reports, yet.
Temporary Graduate (Sub Class 485) is a temporary visa that allows international students to live, study and work after finishing their studies.
This announcement will come as a significant relief for thousands of international students visiting their home countries before starting their jobs in Australia on a 485 visa. However, they could not travel back to Australia as the borders were closed for temporary visa holders.