A two-year extension of post-study work rights is available for international graduates with select degrees that are in areas of verified skill shortage.
The Australian Government has extended post-study working rights for eligible international graduates.
From 1 July 2023, two years will be added to the visas of international higher education graduates with qualifications in areas of skill shortages, including health, teaching, engineering and agriculture.
This is great news for employers in need of skilled workers and provides a level of certainty for international students who want to stay on and work in Australia after their studies.
Post-study work rights for select degrees in areas of demand will be increased from:
- Two years to four years for select bachelor’s degrees
- Three years to five years for select master’s degrees
- Four years to six years for all doctoral degrees.
Also from 1 July 2023, work rights for international students will be capped again, but increased from the previous 40 hours to 48 hours per fortnight. During the pandemic, the cap was relaxed for students to help meet workforce needs.
This modest increase on the cap will help international students to support themselves through their studies, while providing time to concentrate on their study – the primary purpose of their visa.
For more information and the list of all eligible occupations see the Extended post-study work rights for international graduates page.