Temporary Graduate Visa
Most Subclass 485 visa applications are processed within 2–6 months depending on the stream
What is the Subclass 485 Visa?
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Post-Higher Education Work Stream allows eligible international students who have recently graduated with a degree from an Australian institution to live, work and study in Australia temporarily. Applicants must have completed an eligible qualification, meet the Australian study requirement and satisfy all visa requirements. Eligible visa holders can travel to and from Australia while the visa is valid and include eligible members of their family unit in their application.
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
8
Hold an eligible visa
9
Meet Australian study requirement
10
Hold adequate health insurance
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
Meet the English Language Requirement
Provide evidence that you meet the English language requirement.
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
Hold Adequate Health Insurance
You must hold adequate health insurance for the duration of your stay in Australia.
10
Wait for a Decision
The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application and notify you of the outcome. Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances.
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
2–6 Months
Visa Application Fees
| Applicant Type | Fees |
|---|---|
Primary Applicant |
AUD 5,750 |
Additional Applicant (18+ years) |
AUD 2,875 |
Additional Applicant (Under 18 years) |
AUD 1,450 |
Note : Fees are subject to change as per government updates.
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.
