Graduating from an Australian institute is a major milestone - but what comes next? If you are an international student, who has recently completed your studies in Australia, temporary graduate visa (subcutaneous 485) may be the right step. This visa allows you to temporarily stay, study and work in Australia after completing your course.
In this blog post, we will explain what is 485 visas, different streams, which are eligible, how to apply, and how it can help launch your career in Australia.
What is temporary graduate visa (subclass 485)?
Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is designed for international students who have completed a minimum of two years of study in Australia. This allows you to stay temporarily in the country - from 18 months to 5 years, depending on your merit and visa stream.
The visa offers the opportunity to achieve valuable work experience, improve your skills and move towards potentially permanent residence.
Streams of the 485 visa australia
There are three main streams under this visa category:
1. Graduate Work Stream
For international students who graduate with skills and qualifications that relate to an occupation on the skilled occupation list.
Valid for up to 18 months (extended to 2 years for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders).
You must nominate an occupation and have a skills assessment.
2. Post-Study Work Stream
For students who completed a higher education degree (Bachelor, Master, or Doctorate) from an Australian institution.
No occupation or skills assessment required.
Duration varies:
Bachelor’s degree: Up to 2 years
Master’s degree (coursework or research): 3 years
Doctoral degree: 4 years
Regional graduates may be eligible for up to 5 years
3. Second Post-Study Work Stream
For holders of a Post-Study Work visa who have lived, studied, and worked in a designated regional area.
Grants an additional 1–2 years of stay depending on the region.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Subclass 485 visa, you must:
Be under 50 years of age.
Hold an eligible student visa within the last 6 months before applying.
Have completed a CRICOS-registered course that is at least 2 academic years (92 weeks) in duration.
Meet English language requirements (e.g., IELTS 6.0 overall, with no band below 5.0).
Meet Australian study requirements.
Provide evidence of health insurance (OVHC).
Pass health and character checks.
Apply within Australia and hold an eligible visa at the time of application.
For the Graduate Work Stream, you’ll also need:
To nominate a relevant occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
A positive skills assessment for that occupation.
How Long Can You Stay?
The visa duration depends on the stream and your qualification:
Qualification Post-Study Work Visa Length
Bachelor’s degree Up to 2 years
Master’s by coursework Up to 3 years
Master’s by research Up to 3 years
PhD/Doctoral degree Up to 4 years
Regional study bonus Up to 5 years total
Graduate Work Stream 18 months – 2 years
This visa is not extendable, but you may be eligible for other visa options (e.g., skilled migration) after gaining work experience.
What Can You Do on a 485 Visa?
Work full-time in any job — no work restrictions.
Study further, though tuition costs are not subsidized.
Travel in and out of Australia freely while the visa is valid.
Apply for state nomination or skilled visas if you gain relevant work experience or pass points-tested requirements.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1: Gather Required Documents
Valid passport
Australian qualification certificate and transcript
Confirmation of course completion
English test results (IELTS, PTE, etc.)
Health insurance (Overseas Visitor Health Cover)
AFP (Australian Federal Police) clearance
Skills assessment (Graduate Work Stream only)
2: Apply Online
Create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Lodge your application within 6 months of completing your course.
Upload all necessary documents.
Pay the visa application fee (around AUD 1,895 for the primary applicant).
3: Wait for the Outcome
Visa processing times vary:
Post-Study Work Stream: Around 7–9 months
Graduate Work Stream: Around 6–8 months
You’ll receive a Bridging Visa that allows you to stay lawfully in Australia while your application is processed.
Key Tips for a Successful Application
Apply early — don’t wait until the end of your 6-month eligibility window.
Ensure your course completion letter and transcript are ready before applying.
Use your time on the 485 visa to gain relevant work experience and improve your points for skilled migration.
Consider regional Australia — living and working in regional areas can open more doors for permanent visas.
Maintain valid health insurance throughout your stay.
Pathways After 485
Many international graduates use the 485 visa as a stepping stone to permanent residency. Here are some options:
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Employer-Sponsored Visas (e.g., 482, 186)
State or Territory Nomination
Regional Visas (Subclass 491 or 494)
Gaining work experience in your nominated occupation during your 485 stay can significantly boost your chances.
Final Thoughts
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is one of the most valuable options available to international students after completing their studies in Australia. It offers a golden opportunity to gain local work experience, build your resume, and transition to a more permanent visa pathway if that’s your goal.