For Indian graduates in 2026, the AI-ECTA (Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement) is a game-changer. Unlike the “Select Degree” extensions that were scrapped for other nationalities, AI-ECTA provides Indian passport holders with extended base stay periods automatically—provided you claim them correctly on your ImmiAccount.

As of March 1, 2026, with the 485 visa fee now $4,600, ensuring you get the full 3 or 4 years you’re entitled to is critical for your ROI.

1. Do You Need an “Extension” or a “Longer Base Stay”?

In 2026, there is often confusion between a regional extension and the AI-ECTA benefit.

• AI-ECTA is not a separate application: It is an “enhanced stay period” granted at the time of your first Post-Higher Education Work stream application.
• The Durations:
  • Bachelor’s Degree: 2 Years (Standard)
  • Bachelor’s (First Class Honours in STEM/ICT): 3 Years
  • Master’s (Coursework, Extended, or Research): 3 Years
  • PhD / Doctoral: 4 Years

2. Step-by-Step: Claiming AI-ECTA on ImmiAccount

When filling out your Subclass 485 application in 2026, follow these specific steps to ensure the Case Officer applies the AI-ECTA provisions:

Step 1: Passport Details (The Trigger)

On the ‘Applicant Details’ page, ensure your Country of Passport is selected as INDIA. The ImmiAccount system is programmed to recognize Indian nationality and flag the application for AI-ECTA durations.

Step 2: The “Education” Page

When entering your Australian study details:

• If you have First Class Honours in a STEM/ICT field, ensure you upload your official transcript clearly showing the “First Class” honors grade.
• The system uses your CRICOS Course Code to verify if your degree is a Master’s or PhD, which triggers the 3 or 4-year stay.

Step 3: Part L – Additional Information (The “Safety” Note)

While the system is largely automated, many migration agents in 2026 recommend adding a brief note in the “Any other information” box at the end of the form:

“The applicant is an Indian national claiming the extended stay period (3/4 years) under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) side letter provisions for [Master’s/PhD/STEM Honours] graduates.”

Step 4: Document Uploads

Attach a Cover Letter (optional but highly recommended in 2026) titled “AI-ECTA Eligibility Evidence.” Include:

• Your Indian Passport (Bio-page).
• Your Completion Letter (showing the degree type).
• A copy of the AI-ECTA Side Letter (available on the DFAT website) to avoid any Case Officer oversight.

3. The 2026 “Age 35” Conflict

In 2026, the age limit for the 485 visa is 35.

• The Rule: Even with AI-ECTA, you must be 35 or under at the time of application.
• The Exception: If you are an Indian national completing a Master’s by Research or PhD, you can apply up to age 50 and still receive the 4-year AI-ECTA stay.

4. Can You Get a “Second” Extension?

If you are an Indian national who studied in a Regional Area (Category 2 or 3), you can stack your benefits:

1. Start with AI-ECTA: Get 3 years (for a Master’s).
2. Apply for Regional Extension: Near the end of your 3 years, apply for the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream.
3. Result: You could potentially stay for 4 or 5 years total.

5. Summary Checklist for Indian Applicants

• PTE/IELTS: Must be overall 6.5 (no band < 5.5) and less than 12 months old.
• AFP Check: Receipt must be dated before you submit on ImmiAccount.
• Health Insurance: Must have OVHC (not just OSHC) at the time of lodgement.
• Visa Fee: Ensure your card has a $4,600+ limit (plus credit card surcharges).