What is the Subclass 485 Visa?

The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa allows international students who have completed eligible qualifications in Australia to live, work and study in Australia temporarily. It acts as a bridge between study and potential permanent residence. As of July 2025, it has two main streams: Post-Higher Education Work (degree level and above) and Post-Vocational Education Work (diploma/trade qualifications). Visa duration ranges from 18 months to 4 years depending on qualification level.


Who is Eligible?

1

Completed 2-year CRICOS-registered Australian study

2

Hold a valid Student or Bridging visa

3

Age under 35 (exceptions apply)

4

Meet English language requirements

5

No previous Subclass 485 visa as primary applicant

6

Apply within 6 months of course completion

7

Meet health and character requirements

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Step-by-Step Application Process

1

Check Your Eligibility

You must be under 35 years old, complete at least 2 years of eligible study in Australia, and hold a valid Student visa.

2

Choose Your Stream

Select the appropriate stream based on your qualification level and field of study.

3

Meet the English Language Requirement

You must provide valid English test results meeting the minimum required scores.

4

Complete a Skills Assessment (If Required)

Applicants under the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream may need a skills assessment.

5

Gather Your Documents

Prepare all required documents including passport, academic records, English test results, and health insurance.

6

Apply Within 6 Months of Completing Your Course

You must lodge your application within 6 months of course completion while holding a valid student visa.

7

Create an ImmiAccount & Submit Online

Complete and submit your Subclass 485 visa application online through ImmiAccount.

8

Pay the Visa Application Fee

Pay the applicable visa fee along with additional charges for dependent applicants if included.

9

Maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

You must maintain valid health insurance for the entire duration of your stay in Australia.

10

Wait for Processing

Visa processing times vary depending on the stream, document completeness, and assessment requirements.

11

Receive Visa Grant & Begin Working

Once approved, the visa allows you to work full-time and gain professional experience in Australia.

12

Plan Your Pathway to Permanent Residency

Use your 485 visa period to explore PR pathways such as employer sponsorship or skilled migration visas.

Required Documents

  • Valid passport

  • Current Student visa grant notice

  • Official academic transcripts and completion letter from your Australian institution

  • English language test results (taken within the last 12 months — IELTS 6.5+)

  • Skills assessment (Post-Vocational stream only)

  • Evidence of Australian study requirement (CRICOS-registered course, 2+ academic years)

  • Health examination results (if required)

  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) evidence

Note : Additional documents may be requested based on profile assessment

Processing Time

Temporary Graduate Visa

Most Subclass 485 visa applications are processed within 2–6 months depending on the stream

2–6 Months

Visa Application Fees

Applicant TypeFees
Primary Applicant
AUD 4,600
Additional Applicant (18+ years)
AUD 2,300
Additional Applicant (Under 18 years)
AUD 1,160

Note : Fees are subject to change as per government updates.



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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa?

The Subclass 485 Visa is a temporary Australian visa that allows international students who have completed eligible studies in Australia to live, work, and gain professional experience after graduation.

How long can I stay in Australia on a 485 Visa?

Can I work full-time on a 485 Visa?

What are the streams available under the 485 Visa?

What happens if my student visa expires before my 485 Visa decision?

Can I travel in and out of Australia on a 485 Visa?

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