Australia is one of the top sites for international students, thanks to its high quality education system, multicultural environment and strong employment opportunities. But what happens after graduation? For many students, a temporary graduate 485 visa australia is the key to living in Australia and gaining valuable work experience.
Whether you are recently a university graduate or a vocational education student, 485 visa students offer a practical passage for Australian workforce infection. In this broad guide, we will break what the visa provides, which is eligible, and how to apply successfully.
Premisons 485 What is a temporary graduate visa?
Temporary Graduate Visa (subcontinent 485) allows eligible international students to stay, study and work in Australia after finishing their studies. This visa is temporary, but it opens the doors to professional experience, future efficient migration routes and even a permanent residence for some.
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There are two main streams under this visa:
1. Graduate Work Stream
For international students who have completed a diploma or trade qualification in a field related to an occupation on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
2. Post-Study Work Stream
For students who have completed a higher education degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) from an Australian institution, regardless of their field of study.
There’s also a Third Post-Study Work Stream for graduates of institutions in regional Australia, offering extended stay periods.
Key Benefits of the 485 Visa
Work rights: Full-time work rights for the duration of your visa.
Stay duration: Between 18 months to 4 years, depending on your stream and qualification.
Study: You can pursue further education or professional development courses.
Travel: Multiple entry—freely travel in and out of Australia.
Pathway to PR: Gaining local work experience can boost your points and eligibility for skilled migration visa subclass 190.
Duration of the 485 Visa
Qualification Stream Stay Period
Diploma/Trade Qualification Graduate Work Up to 18 months (2 years for Hong Kong & British National Overseas passport holders)
Bachelor’s Degree Post-Study Work 2 years
Master’s by Coursework Post-Study Work 2-3 years
Master’s by Research Post-Study Work 3 years
Doctoral Degree (PhD) Post-Study Work 4 years
Regional Study Third Post-Study Work Additional 1-2 years
Who is the character?
To apply for 485 visas, you have to meet the following requirements:
A qualified qualification fulfilled
You must have completed a CRICOS-registered course within the past 6 months before applying.
Study Duration
Your course must have been at least 2 academic years (92 weeks) and completed in no less than 16 calendar months.
Hold an Eligible Visa
You must currently hold a student visa or have held one in the past 6 months.
English Proficiency
You must prove your English skills through IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or similar, unless you’re from an English-speaking country.
Character and Health Checks
You must meet character requirements (police checks) and undergo a health examination.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) or Equivalent
You must maintain adequate health insurance, such as Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC), during your stay.
Skills Assessment (Graduate Work Stream Only)
Applicants in the Graduate Work stream must:
Nominate a skilled occupation from the relevant list
Provide a positive skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority
How to Apply for the 485 Visa
Step 1: Prepare Documents
Collect all required documents:
Passport
Academic transcripts and completion letter
English test results
Health insurance proof
Police certificates
Evidence of regional study (if applicable)
Step 2: Lodge the Application Online
You must apply online through your ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
As of 2025, the base application charge is:
Primary applicant: AUD $1,895
Additional applicants (over 18): AUD $950
Additional applicants (under 18): AUD $475
Step 4: Attend Health and Biometrics Appointments
If necessary, you will get instructions to complete a health check -up and provide biometric information.
Tips for a successful 485 visa application
Apply On Time
You must apply within 6 months of your course completion date. Late applications will be rejected.
Use a Completion Letter
You need a formal completion letter from your education provider, not just a transcript.
Be Regionally Smart
If you studied and lived in designated regional areas, you may qualify for extra years on your visa under the Third Post-study work stream.
Plan for PR Early
Use your time on the 485 visa wisely—gain relevant work experience, complete NAATI or professional year programs, and improve your migration points.
What Happens After Your 485 Visa?
Once your 485 visa nears expiration, you have several options depending on your goals:
Efficient migration: If you meet eligibility, apply for a subclass 189, 190, or 491 visa.
Employer sponsorship: If you get a job offer, you can qualify for a temporary skill deficiency (TSS) subclass 482 visa.
Further study: You can re-enroll in advanced courses and apply for a new student visa.
Partner visa: If you have an eligible partner, you can apply for a Partner Visa pathway.
Final Thoughts
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is a fantastic opportunity for international students to gain practical work experience in Australia and explore pathways to permanent residency. It offers the freedom to work, travel, and build your career after graduation.
