Training Visa vs Temporary Graduate Visa: Which One is Right for You?
If you’re a South African looking to gain valuable work experience in Australia, you may have come across the Training Visa (Subclass 407) and the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). While both visas offer opportunities to live and work in Australia, they serve very different purposes. Understanding the key distinctions is essential to choosing the right pathway for your migration journey.
In this guide, we’ll break down the training visa vs temporary graduate visa, comparing their eligibility requirements, benefits, and how they can help you secure long-term residency in Australia.
What is a Training Visa (Subclass 407)?
The Training Visa (Subclass 407) is a temporary visa designed for individuals who wish to enhance their professional skills through workplace-based training in Australia. It is ideal for South Africans looking to develop their careers in a structured training program.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this visa, you must:
Be nominated by an approved sponsor.
Demonstrate relevant work experience or study in your nominated occupation.
Prove that the training program is directly related to your current job or field of study.
Meet English language requirements.
Key Benefits
Allows you to stay in Australia for up to two years.
Gain hands-on training and industry exposure.
Opportunity to improve your skills in an Australian work environment.
What is a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is designed for international students who have recently completed their studies in Australia. This visa allows graduates to gain full-time work experience that can potentially lead to permanent residency.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for this visa, you must:
Have completed an eligible course in Australia (minimum 2 years of study).
Apply within six months of finishing your studies.
Meet English language requirements.
Choose between the Graduate Work Stream (for skills-based employment) or the Post-Study Work Stream (for university graduates).
Key Benefits
Provides full work rights in Australia.
Duration varies from 18 months to 4 years, depending on the qualification.
Can be a stepping stone toward permanent residency.
Training Visa vs Temporary Graduate Visa: Key Differences
While both visas provide opportunities to gain professional experience in Australia, they differ in terms of purpose, eligibility, and long-term benefits. Here’s a detailed comparison:
Criteria
Training Visa (Subclass 407)
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Purpose
Provides workplace-based training for skill development.
Allows graduates to gain work experience post-study.
Work Rights
Limited work opportunities—only allowed as part of training.
Full work rights during the visa duration.
Eligibility
Requires sponsorship and nomination by an Australian organisation.
Requires completion of an Australian qualification.
Pathway to PR
Limited—may lead to an employer-sponsored visa.
Stronger prospects—can lead to skilled migration pathways.
Duration
Up to 2 years.
Between 18 months to 4 years.
Which Visa is Right for You?
Choosing between the training visa vs temporary graduate visa depends on your personal and professional goals:
If you are looking to improve your skills through structured training and have an Australian sponsor, the Training Visa (Subclass 407) may be the right fit for you.
If you have completed studies in Australia and want to gain work experience with potential permanent residency options, the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is a better choice.
Conclusion
Australia offers multiple opportunities for skilled professionals and graduates to advance their careers. Understanding the key differences between a training visa vs temporary graduate visa can help you make the best decision for your future.
Both visas serve important purposes in Australia’s skilled migration pathways, whether for training or long-term employment. However, your eligibility and career goals should determine the visa you choose.
If you’re unsure about which visa is right for you, our expert team at Migrate 2 Oz can help. With over 20 years of experience assisting South Africans with migrating to Australia, we can guide you through the process and increase your chances of success.
Ready to take the next step in your migration journey?
