Vivek Bhargava,who studied IT at Swinburne University and Melbourne Polytechnic TAFE,is one of more than 14,450 graduates whose 485 temporary visa has expired while outside Australia since February 2020.
Stuck in India and unable to return to an IT job he had in Melbourne before the pandemic hit,Mr Bhargava has co-ordinated a WhatsApp group of other 485 visa holders in the same position as him all over the world.
“I’ve come across so many heartfelt stories of people suffering from immense pain,anxiety and depression. Everyone is in a feeling that their lives are being completely shattered by this and that they have had no provisions from the Australian government so far,” Mr Bhargava,25,said.
The 485 visa,known as the temporary graduate visa,allows international students to work in Australia for typically two years after they graduate with a degree from an Australian institution. The visa itself costs about $1680,but it is the ability to gain invaluable work experience – and potentially find a pathway to permanent residency – that entices many students to pay upwards of $60,000 to study in Australia in the first place.
Department of Home Affairs figures show there are about 13,150 graduates on 485 visas now outside Australia.
Many are in severe financial distress after their families took out loans to pay for their studies,and without the prospect of an Australian job,have limited means to repay the mounting interest. Others have the added burden of paying rent on apartments,cars and belongings they left behind in Australia not anticipating they would be unable to return for more than a year.