The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students who have completed their studies in Australia to live, work, and gain professional experience for a specific period. This visa is a great opportunity for graduates who want to stay in Australia temporarily and build their careers.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Temporary Graduate Visa, including its eligibility criteria and application process.
What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is designed for international students who have recently completed an eligible qualification from an Australian institution. It allows graduates to stay and work in Australia temporarily, depending on the stream they apply for.
Streams Available Under Subclass 485
There are three main streams under this visa:
1️⃣ Graduate Work Stream
✅ For graduates with skills in demand on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
✅ Valid for up to 18 months (or up to 24 months for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders).
✅ Requires a skills assessment in the nominated occupation.
2️⃣ Post-Study Work Stream
✅ For graduates of higher education degrees (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).
✅ Valid for 2 to 4 years, depending on the level of qualification.
✅ No specific occupation list requirement.
3️⃣ Second Post-Study Work Stream
✅ Available for those who studied and lived in regional Australia while holding their first 485 visa under the Post-Study Work Stream.
✅ Additional 1 to 2 years stay depending on the location of the study.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Temporary Graduate Visa, you must:
✔️ Be under 50 years old.
✔️ Hold an eligible visa (usually a student visa) at the time of application.
✔️ Have completed a CRICOS-registered course in Australia.
✔️ Meet the Australian study requirement (at least 2 years of study).
✔️ Apply within 6 months of course completion.
✔️ Provide evidence of English language proficiency (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or Cambridge test).
✔️ Have adequate health insurance (Overseas Visitor Health Cover – OVHC).
✔️ Meet health and character requirements.
Application Process
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485):
1️. Check your eligibility – Ensure you meet all the requirements before applying.
2️. Gather your documents, including:
- Passport
- Academic transcripts and completion letter
- English language test results
- Health insurance details (OVHC)
- Skills assessment (if required)
- Evidence of Australian study (COE and transcripts)
3️⃣ Apply online through ImmiAccount – Submit your application via the Department of Home Affairs website.
4️⃣ Undergo health and character checks – You may be required to provide medical examinations and police clearance certificates.
5️⃣ Await visa processing – Track your application status online.
6️⃣ Receive your visa grant – If approved, you can live and work in Australia for the duration granted.
Processing Time and Costs
⏳ Processing time:
- Graduate Work Stream: 6 – 9 months
- Post-Study Work Stream: 5 – 7 months
💰 Application fee:
- Primary applicant: From AUD 1,895
- Additional applicants (dependents) will have extra charges.
FAQs
Q: Can I include family members in my application?
A: Yes! You can include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your 485 visa application.
Q: Can I apply for PR (Permanent Residency) after a 485 visa?
A: Yes! Many graduates use the 485 visa as a pathway to PR by gaining work experience and applying for employer-sponsored or skilled migration visas.
Q: Do I need a job offer to apply for this visa?
A: No, you don’t need a job offer. However, having one can improve your chances of securing PR later.
Q: What happens if my visa expires while waiting for a decision?
A: If you apply before your student visa expires, you will be granted a Bridging Visa that allows you to stay in Australia while your application is processed.
