Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485)

Work, Study & Live in Australia After Graduation

The Subclass 485 visa allows international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily. It’s a valuable opportunity to gain local experience, improve your chances of permanent residency, and explore career pathways.

Key Benefits

• Work Full-Time
  Gain valuable work experience in Australia after completing your studies.
• Stay Up to 4 Years
  Duration depends on your qualification and stream (up to 4 years for select degrees).
• Pathway to PR
  Build points and experience toward permanent residency options like Subclass 189, 190, or 491.
• Include Family Members
  You can include your spouse and dependent children in your application.
• No Sponsorship Required
  You don’t need employer or state sponsorship to apply.
• Multiple Streams Available
  Choose from Graduate Work, Post-Study Work, or Replacement stream.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for Subclass 485, you must meet the following:

1. General Requirements
   • Be under 50 years of age.
   • Hold an eligible student visa (or Bridging Visa A/B after applying for 485).
   • Have completed a CRICOS-registered course in the last 6 months.
   • Meet English language requirements (e.g., IELTS overall 6.0, no band < 5.0).
   • Provide health insurance (OVHC).
   • Meet health and character

Visa Streams

Graduate Work Stream

• For students with skills in demand (on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List).
• Valid for up to 18 months (extended to 24 months for some applicants).
• Requires a skills assessment in the nominated occupation.

Post-Study Work Stream

• For graduates with a Bachelor, Master, or Doctoral degree from an Australian institution.
• Valid for 2 to 4 years, depending on qualification:
  • Bachelor: 2 years
  • Master (Coursework): 2 years
  • Master (Research): 3 years
  • PhD: 4 years

Replacement Stream

• For previous 485 holders affected by COVID-19 travel restrictions.
• Offers a second chance to use the full visa duration.

Visa Conditions

• Full Work Rights
  You can work unrestricted hours in any field.
• No Sponsorship Needed
  Apply independently without employer or state nomination.
• Family Inclusion
  Your spouse and children can live, work, and study in Australia.
• Temporary Stay
  This is not a permanent visa but can lead to PR pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)