Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

Temporary Graduate visa is for international students who have recently graduated from an Australian educational institution. The visa allows eligible students to live and work in Australia temporarily after completion of studies for up to 4 years. The duration of the visa is dependent on the qualification (see table below)

Students are able to access the Subclass 485 visa only once as a primary applicant. Subclass 485 visa does not require the support of an employer sponsor, an Australian relative sponsor or a nominating State/Territory. This visa has 2 streams and each stream has different eligibility requirements.

• Graduate Work stream (up to 18 months)
• Post-study Work stream (up to 4 years)

Eligibility for Graduate Work stream

• Be under 50 years of age
• Meet Australian study requirements
• Meet English Requirements
• Nominate one occupation on the Medium and Long-term Occupation list that is closely related to that occupation
• Have positive skills assessment
• Meet health and character requirement

Not have had a visa cancelled or a previous application refused

Eligibility for Post-Study Work stream

• Meet Australian study requirement
• Hold an eligible qualification at a degree-level or above
• Meet health and character requirement
• Not have had a visa cancelled or a previous application refused

Unlike applicants in the Graduate Work stream, applicants in the Post-Study Work stream are not required to nominate an occupation

When can I apply?

The Temporary Graduate visa Subclass 485 must be applied within 6 months of your course completion. If you meet the general requirements and you have recently completed your studies in Australia then you may consider lodging your application. Applicant must be in Australia at the time of lodgement and decision of visa application.

Processing times vary anywhere between 4 months to 5 months but every situation is unique. Many factors determine length of time taken to grant a visa. Most important aspect is lodging a complete ‘Decision Ready’ application and we can assist you with checking your eligibility against regulations and other requirements to ensure all supporting documents are provided for faster processing.

The length of your stay in Australia depends on the level of your Australian study qualification as indicated in the table: