485 Visa Australia

The information in this guide reflects the position as reviewed on 30 October 2026. Immigration requirements and charges can change, so applicants should always verify the relevant criteria through the Australian Department of Home Affairs before lodging an application.

Quick Answer: What Is the 485 Visa in Australia?

The subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa is a temporary Australian visa that allows eligible international students to remain in Australia after completing an eligible qualification. It provides an opportunity to gain professional work experience, develop a career, undertake further study and explore suitable long-term migration options.

The visa has three main streams: Post-Vocational Education Work, Post-Higher Education Work and Second Post-Higher Education Work. The correct stream depends on the applicant’s qualification, occupation, previous Temporary Graduate visa and regional study circumstances.

Most applicants must be 35 years old or younger when they apply. Certain research master’s and doctoral graduates, along with eligible Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders, may qualify for an age exemption. Applicants must also satisfy the Australian study requirement, hold or have recently held an eligible visa, meet the English language standard, maintain adequate health insurance and satisfy health and character requirements.

The Post-Vocational Education Work stream generally allows a stay of up to 18 months. The Post-Higher Education Work stream usually provides two or three years, depending on the qualification and applicable arrangements. Eligible regional graduates may qualify for an additional one or two years through the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream.

Key Takeaways About the Australian 485 Visa

• The Temporary Graduate visa is intended for eligible international students who have completed qualifying Australian studies.
• There are three streams, each designed for different qualifications and circumstances.
• The general maximum age is 35 years or under at the time of application, subject to specific exceptions.
• The English language requirement generally includes IELTS 6.5 overall with minimum component scores, or an accepted equivalent test.
• Applicants generally need to apply within six months of completing their qualification.
• The standard primary applicant charge is A$5,750, while the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream costs A$2,265, subject to applicable concessions and changes.
• Eligible visa holders can live, work and study in Australia temporarily.
• Eligible family members may also be included in the application.
• The 485 visa does not automatically provide permanent residency.
• Graduates can explore skilled migration, employer sponsorship and eligible family migration options for their longer-term plans.

What Are the Three Streams of the Temporary Graduate Visa 485?

The Australian Government restructured the temporary graduate visa australia program from 1 July 2024. The previous Graduate Work and Post-Study Work streams were renamed, and the current framework introduced a clearer distinction between vocational and higher education qualifications.

Understanding the streams is important because the qualification, occupation requirements, permitted stay and subsequent visa options differ. Applicants should select the correct stream before submitting their application because changing streams after lodging is generally not possible.

1. Post-Vocational Education Work Stream

The Post-Vocational Education Work stream is designed for international students who have completed eligible vocational qualifications in Australia. These qualifications may include diplomas, associate degrees and eligible trade qualifications.

Unlike the higher education stream, this pathway has an occupation-related requirement. The applicant’s qualification must be closely related to a nominated occupation that appears on the applicable skilled occupation list. The applicant may also need to obtain a suitable skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority.

This pathway can be relevant to graduates who have completed practical or vocational training and want to gain additional professional experience in Australia.

Who May Qualify for the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream?

• Graduates who have completed an eligible Australian diploma.
• Graduates with an eligible associate degree.
• Applicants who have completed an eligible trade qualification.
• Applicants whose qualification is relevant to a nominated occupation.
• Individuals who meet the applicable Australian study and visa requirements.
• Applicants who satisfy the English, health and character criteria.

How Long Can You Stay?

The Post-Vocational Education Work graduate visa australia stream generally allows eligible applicants to stay in Australia for up to 18 months. The actual visa period is subject to the applicable provisions and the applicant’s circumstances.

Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders may qualify for a longer stay under separate arrangements. Applicants should check the relevant government criteria rather than assuming the standard duration applies to every passport holder.

2. Post-Higher Education Work Stream

The Post-Higher Education Work stream is intended for international graduates who have completed an eligible degree-level qualification or higher at an Australian education institution.

This stream is particularly relevant to students who have completed a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or doctoral qualification. It allows eligible graduates to remain in Australia temporarily after their studies and seek employment in their chosen industry.

Unlike the Post-Vocational Education Work stream, applicants generally do not need to nominate an occupation connected to their degree as a basic stream requirement. However, they must still satisfy the Temporary Graduate visa study requirement and all other applicable eligibility criteria.

Eligible Higher Education Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Bachelor honours degree.
• Master’s degree by coursework.
• Master’s degree by extended study.
• Master’s degree by research.
• Eligible doctoral degrees.
• Other qualifying higher doctoral or professional doctoral qualifications where recognised under the visa rules.

How Long Can You Stay?

The standard stay period depends on the qualification completed. Bachelor graduates and most coursework master’s graduates generally receive two years. Research master’s and doctoral graduates may receive three years under the general arrangements.

However, applicants should pay attention to country-specific arrangements. Indian nationals may qualify for different stay periods under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement. For example, eligible Indian bachelor’s graduates generally receive two years, bachelor’s graduates with first-class honours in STEM, including ICT, may receive three years, master’s graduates may receive three years and eligible doctoral graduates may receive four years.

These arrangements mean that applicants should not assume that every graduate with the same qualification automatically receives the same visa duration.

3. Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream

The Second Post-Higher Education Work stream provides an additional temporary stay option for eligible graduates who previously held a qualifying Temporary Graduate visa and meet the regional study and residence requirements.

The regional pathway is intended to support graduates connected with designated regional areas of Australia. It provides an opportunity to remain in a qualifying regional location for additional time after the first Temporary Graduate visa.

Who Can Apply for a Second 485 Visa?

Applicants generally need to have held a qualifying first Temporary Graduate visa, such as the Post-Higher Education Work stream, Post-Study Work stream or an eligible Replacement stream visa. The qualification must also have been obtained from an Australian institution located in an eligible regional area.

Applicants must meet the applicable regional residence conditions while holding their first qualifying visa. The specific requirements depend on the regional location associated with the original qualification and the area in which the applicant lived.

Additional Stay Period

The Second Post-Higher Education Work stream generally provides one or two additional years. The applicable period depends on the regional circumstances and the relevant government rules.

Studying in a major metropolitan area does not automatically qualify a graduate for this pathway. Regional eligibility must be assessed against the official designated regional area requirements.

Temporary Graduate Visa 485 Duration by Qualification

One of the most common questions international students ask is how long they can remain in Australia after graduation. The answer depends on the qualification, stream, nationality-specific arrangements and any regional eligibility.

The duration is important because it affects how much time a graduate has to find employment, gain professional experience, prepare for a skills assessment or explore another migration pathway.

Post-Higher Education Work Duration

Under the general arrangements, the following periods apply to common higher education qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree: generally two years.
• Bachelor honours degree: generally two years.
• Master’s by coursework: generally two years.
• Master’s by extended study: generally two years.
• Master’s by research: generally three years.
• Doctoral degree: generally three years.

Country-specific arrangements can provide different periods. For example, eligible Indian graduates may receive longer periods for certain qualifications under the Australia-India trade agreement.

Post-Vocational Education Work Duration

Graduates applying through the vocational stream generally receive a stay of up to 18 months. The qualification must meet the relevant requirements and be connected to an eligible nominated occupation.

Regional Second Visa Duration

Eligible graduates may receive one or two additional years under the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream. This depends on the regional location of their educational institution and their qualifying regional residence circumstances.

Can You Extend the 485 Visa?

The Temporary Graduate visa cannot normally be extended simply by requesting additional time. The previous post-study work extension arrangements that were introduced for certain graduates have changed, and applicants should not rely on old information about automatic or general extensions.

The current Second Post-Higher Education Work stream is a separate pathway for eligible regional graduates. It is not a general extension available to everyone who holds a subclass 485 visa.

Graduates who need to remain in Australia after their Temporary Graduate visa expires should assess other available visa options before their current visa ends. Depending on their circumstances, these may include skilled migration, employer sponsorship or eligible family migration categories.

485 Visa Age Limit in 2026

The age requirement is one of the most important changes introduced to the Temporary Graduate visa program. Most applicants must be 35 years old or younger when they lodge their application.

This means an applicant who is approaching their 36th birthday should carefully plan the application timeline. The relevant age is assessed when the application is made, rather than when the applicant completes their studies or receives their final academic results.

Who Is Exempt from the General 35-Year Age Limit?

Specific exceptions apply to certain applicants. Eligible applicants who use a master’s degree by research or doctoral degree to meet the study requirement may apply under the higher age allowance. Certain Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders may also qualify for the higher age threshold.

Under the relevant provisions, these applicants may generally apply while under 50 years of age, subject to the applicable criteria.

Why Is Application Timing Important?

Students sometimes focus on their graduation date without considering the age requirement. However, the six-month application period and the age limit must both be satisfied.

For example, a student who completes a qualifying master’s degree shortly before turning 36 may have only a limited period in which to prepare and lodge an application. Waiting until the end of the available application window could result in losing eligibility under the standard age requirement.

Applicants should prepare their passport, course completion evidence, English test results, insurance arrangements and other required documents as early as possible.

485 Visa English Requirements

English language ability is another important requirement for the Temporary Graduate visa. Applicants must generally provide evidence of the required English proficiency unless they qualify for an applicable passport-based exemption.

The English requirements were strengthened in 2024, and the accepted tests and minimum scores have also been updated. In particular, the test score requirements applicable from 7 August 2025 should be considered when reviewing recent results.

IELTS Requirement for the 485 Visa

For applicants taking IELTS Academic or General Training, the current standard generally requires an overall score of 6.5, with at least 5.5 in each of the four components: listening, reading, writing and speaking.

Applicants should check that their IELTS test type and result meet the Department of Home Affairs requirements. A score that meets the overall requirement but falls below the minimum in one component may not satisfy the visa criteria.

PTE Academic Requirement

PTE Academic is another accepted English language test. Under the requirements for tests taken on or after 7 August 2025, applicants generally need an overall score of 55, with minimum scores in each component.

Applicants should avoid relying on older PTE score tables because the accepted scores and component requirements have changed. The relevant test date determines which score requirements apply.

Other Accepted English Tests

Depending on the test date and applicable Home Affairs rules, accepted English evidence may include IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Occupational English Test, CELPIP General, LANGUAGECERT Academic and other recognised tests.

Not every test is accepted for every application period. Applicants must check the accepted test list and the exact minimum component scores before booking an examination.

English Test Validity Period

For the Temporary Graduate visa, the relevant English test result generally needs to have been obtained within the 12 months immediately before the application date.

This is important for students who completed an English test several months before graduation. A result that was valid when the student enrolled in an Australian course may no longer be valid when they apply for the Temporary Graduate visa.

It is advisable to schedule the test with enough time to receive the result and arrange a retake if necessary.

English Exemptions

Some applicants may be able to demonstrate English proficiency through an eligible passport rather than taking a separate test. The recognised passport arrangements include citizens of the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, New Zealand and the Republic of Ireland who meet the relevant requirements.

Applicants should check the official English language visa requirements because holding a passport from a particular country does not automatically remove every other visa requirement.

485 Visa Requirements: Complete Eligibility Checklist

Meeting the qualification requirement alone is not sufficient to receive a Temporary Graduate visa. Applicants must satisfy several additional criteria covering their previous visa status, Australian study history, age, English language ability, insurance and character.

1. Australian Study Requirement

Applicants must complete an eligible qualification through an Australian education provider and satisfy the Temporary Graduate visa study requirement. The course generally needs to be registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

The Australian study requirement generally involves at least two academic years of study, equivalent to 92 weeks of registered courses, completed over at least 16 calendar months. The actual assessment depends on the course structure, registration and relevant study arrangements.

2. Eligible Qualification

The completed qualification must meet the requirements of the selected visa stream. Vocational applicants generally need an eligible diploma, associate degree or trade qualification, while higher education applicants need an eligible degree-level qualification.

Applicants should confirm that their qualification is recognised for the relevant stream rather than assuming that every Australian course provides access to the Temporary Graduate visa.

3. Previous Student Visa Requirement

Applicants generally need to hold an eligible visa when applying and must have held a Student visa within the previous six months. Specific circumstances involving Bridging Visa A, Bridging Visa B and certain substantive visas may also be recognised.

The exact previous visa requirements depend on the application circumstances. Students who have changed their visa status after completing their studies should review their eligibility carefully.

4. Course Completion Within the Required Period

Applicants generally need to apply within six months of completing their eligible course. They should understand the relevant completion date and make sure that their application is lodged within the permitted timeframe.

Waiting for a graduation ceremony is not necessarily the same as waiting for course completion. Students should refer to their education provider’s formal completion documentation and the relevant government rules.

5. Age Requirement

Most applicants must be 35 years old or younger when they apply. Eligible research master’s and doctoral graduates and certain passport holders may qualify for an exception.

6. English Language Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate the required English level through an accepted test or qualifying passport evidence. The test date, overall result and component scores must all meet the applicable requirements.

7. Health Insurance

Applicants must provide evidence of adequate health insurance for themselves and any family members included in the application. The insurance must meet the requirements for the intended period of stay.

8. Health and Character Requirements

Applicants must satisfy Australia’s health and character requirements. Medical examinations, police certificates and additional supporting documents may be required depending on individual circumstances.

9. Skills Assessment for Vocational Applicants

Applicants using the Post-Vocational Education Work stream must satisfy the occupation-related requirements. A suitable skills assessment may be required for the nominated occupation, and the relevant assessing authority will determine whether the qualification and skills meet its assessment standards.

10. Immigration History

Previous visa cancellations, refusals, breaches of visa conditions or other immigration issues may affect eligibility. Applicants should disclose relevant information accurately and obtain professional advice if they have a complicated immigration history.

485 Visa Fee in 2026

The visa application charge is an important part of the Temporary Graduate visa budget. The Australian Government has increased the charges, making it important for graduates and their families to check the current cost before lodging an application.

The Department of Home Affairs currently lists the following standard primary applicant charges:

Additional Applicant Charges

Applicants who include a partner or dependent children should budget for additional visa application charges. The cost depends on the age and circumstances of each additional applicant and the applicable fee schedule.

Subsequent entrants who apply separately after the primary applicant receives a visa may also be subject to different charges. Applicants should use the official Visa Pricing Estimator to calculate the complete application cost.

Other Expenses to Consider

• English language examination fees.
• Health examination charges.
• Police clearance certificates.
• Health insurance premiums.
• Skills assessment fees, where applicable.
• Document translation costs.
• Professional immigration assistance fees, if required.

Applicants should remember that the visa application charge is only one part of the overall budget. Additional expenses can vary depending on the number of family members, the occupation assessment process and the documents required.

For the latest charges, refer to the official Temporary Graduate visa page.

485 Visa Work Rights and Study Rights

One of the main benefits of the Temporary Graduate visa is the opportunity to work in Australia after completing an eligible qualification. This gives international graduates time to develop professional experience, explore employment opportunities and understand the Australian labour market.

Full-Time Work Opportunities

Temporary Graduate visa holders generally have unrestricted work rights under the visa. They can seek employment with different employers, work in various industries and gain experience that may be relevant to their future career plans.

Unlike certain student visa arrangements, the Temporary Graduate visa does not generally impose the same student work-hour restrictions. Graduates can use the visa period to pursue full-time employment where opportunities are available.

Can You Change Employers?

Eligible 485 visa holders can generally change employers without requiring a new employer-sponsored visa simply to change jobs. This flexibility can be useful for graduates who want to explore different industries or move into a role that better matches their qualifications.

However, graduates should remember that working in a particular occupation does not automatically qualify them for a skilled migration visa. A future visa may have separate occupation, experience, salary, sponsorship or skills assessment requirements.

Can You Study on a 485 Visa?

The Temporary Graduate visa allows holders to undertake study in Australia. However, graduates should consider their long-term plans before enrolling in another substantial course.

Australian student visa application rules have changed, including restrictions on certain onshore applications by Temporary Graduate visa holders. A graduate considering a new course should confirm whether they can apply for the appropriate student visa from their current location and whether their intended study plans are suitable.

Can You Start a Business?

The general work rights of the Temporary Graduate visa may allow eligible holders to undertake self-employment activities within Australian law. However, running a business involves additional legal, taxation, registration and regulatory responsibilities.

Graduates should understand their obligations before starting a business or entering into a commercial arrangement.

How to Apply for the Australian 485 Visa Step by Step

Applying for the Temporary Graduate visa requires preparation and accurate documentation. Selecting the correct stream, confirming the application deadline and meeting the English and insurance requirements can help avoid preventable application problems.

Step 1: Identify the Correct Visa Stream

Start by reviewing your completed qualification and determining which stream applies to your circumstances. Diploma, associate degree and trade qualification graduates may need to assess the Post-Vocational Education Work stream. Bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral graduates should review the Post-Higher Education Work stream.

Regional graduates who have previously held a qualifying Temporary Graduate visa should separately assess whether they qualify for the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream.

Step 2: Confirm Your Course Completion Date

Obtain formal evidence from your education provider confirming that you have successfully completed the qualification. Review the completion date carefully because the application deadline is linked to the relevant course completion requirements.

Do not assume that your graduation ceremony date determines your application deadline.

Step 3: Check Your Age Eligibility

Confirm your age on the proposed application date. If you are close to the general age limit, identify whether a specific exception applies and arrange your application preparation accordingly.

Step 4: Complete Your English Test

Check the current accepted English tests and minimum component scores. Book an examination that provides a result within the permitted validity period and allows sufficient time for a retake if necessary.

Step 5: Arrange Adequate Health Insurance

Review the insurance requirements for the main applicant and all family members. Obtain evidence showing that the required coverage is in place when you lodge the application.

Step 6: Prepare the Supporting Documents

Collect your passport, academic transcripts, course completion evidence, English test results, visa history documents, insurance evidence and other supporting information.

Vocational stream applicants should also review the skills assessment requirements for their nominated occupation.

Step 7: Create or Access ImmiAccount

Eligible applicants generally submit their Temporary Graduate visa application online through the Australian Government’s ImmiAccount system. Check that your personal information and supporting documents are accurate before submission.

Step 8: Submit the Application and Pay the Charge

Select the correct visa stream, attach the required evidence and pay the applicable visa application charge. The stream should be selected carefully because it is generally not possible to change it after applying.

Step 9: Complete Additional Health and Character Checks

Respond to any requests from the Department of Home Affairs. These may involve medical examinations, police clearances, identity documents or additional information.

Step 10: Monitor Your Application

Check ImmiAccount regularly for correspondence, requests and application updates. If the Department requests additional evidence, provide it within the specified timeframe.

Step 11: Review the Visa Decision

If your application is granted, carefully review the visa grant notification. Confirm the visa commencement date, expiry date, travel arrangements and applicable conditions.

For official application instructions, visit Australian Department of Home Affairs.

Documents Required for the 485 Visa Application

Preparing documents before lodging an application can reduce delays caused by missing or unclear evidence. The documents required depend on the applicant’s stream, immigration history and personal circumstances.

Identity Documents

• Valid passport.
• Personal identity documents, where requested.
• Evidence of any name changes.
• Previous passport details, where relevant.

Education Documents

• Official academic transcripts.
• Course completion letter.
• Degree, diploma or qualification certificate.
• Evidence of the Australian education provider and eligible course.
• Supporting evidence of the Australian study requirement, where required.

English Language Documents

• Accepted English test result.
• Evidence of a qualifying passport-based exemption, if applicable.
• Additional test information if requested by Home Affairs.

Visa and Insurance Documents

• Evidence of the current or previous eligible visa.
• Student visa details.
• Adequate health insurance evidence.
• Evidence relating to any bridging visa, if applicable.

Character and Skills Documents

• Australian Federal Police check application evidence.
• Police certificates from relevant countries, if required.
• Medical examination information, if requested.
• Skills assessment outcome for applicants who require one.

Documents that are not in English generally need to be accompanied by appropriate English translations. Applicants should follow the Department’s translation and document submission instructions.

Can You Include Family Members in a 485 Visa Application?

The Temporary Graduate visa allows eligible applicants to include certain members of their family unit. This can make the pathway relevant to graduates who want their partner or dependent children to remain in Australia with them.

Including a Partner

An eligible spouse or de facto partner may be included in the application, subject to the relevant relationship and visa requirements. Applicants should provide appropriate evidence of their relationship, including documents that establish the nature and genuineness of the partnership where required.

Including Dependent Children

Eligible dependent children may also be included in accordance with the applicable family unit rules. Their identity, dependency, health and character circumstances must be considered as part of the application.

Adding Family Members After Visa Grant

Some family members may be able to apply as subsequent entrants after the primary applicant has received the Temporary Graduate visa. This process has separate requirements and application charges.

Applicants should not assume that adding a family member after grant is identical to including that person in the original application. The relevant rules and evidence requirements should be reviewed before making arrangements.

Regional Study and the Second 485 Visa

Regional study can be relevant to international students who want to explore additional post-study work opportunities in Australia. The Second Post-Higher Education Work stream provides a possible additional stay for graduates who meet the required regional conditions.

What Is a Designated Regional Area?

Australia has specific regional migration classifications that determine which locations qualify for different migration incentives and pathways. These classifications are not necessarily the same as the everyday meaning of a regional or rural location.

Students should check the official designated regional area classification before selecting an education provider on the assumption that a particular campus will qualify for a future regional visa.

Why Does the Institution’s Location Matter?

The location of the Australian institution where the graduate completed the qualifying degree can influence eligibility for the second visa. The relevant regional location must satisfy the government requirements.

Why Does Regional Residence Matter?

Applicants must also meet the applicable regional residence conditions while holding their first qualifying Temporary Graduate visa. Simply studying in a regional location for a short period does not necessarily satisfy the requirements.

Should You Choose Regional Study for Migration Reasons?

Students should select an education provider based on course quality, career opportunities, accreditation, financial circumstances and personal objectives. Regional migration benefits may be one consideration, but they should not be the only reason for choosing a university or college.

Before accepting an offer, check the course registration, campus location, available facilities and the latest immigration rules. A regional campus classification should never be assumed based only on the education provider’s name.

From 485 Visa to Australian Permanent Residency: What Are Your Options?

The Temporary Graduate visa is not a permanent residence visa. It provides a temporary period after graduation during which eligible individuals can work, develop professional experience and explore other immigration options.

Some graduates may qualify for skilled migration, employer-sponsored visas or eligible family migration pathways. The correct option depends on factors such as age, occupation, skills assessment, English proficiency, employment history, sponsorship and state or territory nomination requirements.

1. General Skilled Migration Pathway

General Skilled Migration is a points-tested migration framework that includes several skilled visa categories. Applicants are assessed against relevant eligibility requirements, including their occupation, age, English proficiency, skills assessment and other applicable factors.

Graduates who use their 485 period to improve their English, gain relevant employment experience and complete a skills assessment may be better prepared to evaluate their eligibility for a skilled visa.

Read our General Skilled Migration Australia guide for more information about the available pathways.

2. Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189

The Skilled Independent visa subclass 189 is a permanent visa for eligible skilled workers who meet the relevant points-tested requirements and receive an invitation to apply.

Applicants generally need an eligible occupation, a suitable skills assessment, the required English standard and sufficient points. Meeting the minimum points threshold does not guarantee an invitation because selection depends on the applicable invitation process.

See our Skilled Independent visa subclass 189 guide.

3. Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190

The Skilled Nominated visa subclass 190 is a permanent skilled migration pathway that requires nomination by an Australian state or territory.

Applicants need to meet the relevant visa requirements and the nomination criteria of the state or territory. These criteria may include occupation demand, work experience, employment, residence, English proficiency and other selection factors.

State nomination can provide additional points for eligible applicants, but nomination requirements and selection policies vary.

Read our subclass 190 visa guide.

4. Skilled Work Regional Visa Subclass 491

The Skilled Work Regional visa subclass 491 is a provisional skilled visa designed for eligible applicants nominated by a state or territory or sponsored by an eligible relative in a designated regional area.

It provides an opportunity to live and work in qualifying regional areas, subject to visa conditions. Eligible holders may later qualify for the permanent subclass 191 pathway if they satisfy the relevant requirements.

Graduates interested in regional employment may consider whether their occupation, skills assessment and other circumstances align with this pathway.

Read our subclass 491 visa guide.

5. Employer-Sponsored Pathway: Subclass 186

The Employer Nomination Scheme visa subclass 186 is a permanent employer-sponsored pathway. Eligible applicants generally need an Australian employer willing to nominate them under an applicable stream.

Applicants must satisfy the relevant occupation, experience, English, skills and other requirements. The eligibility criteria vary depending on the stream and the applicant’s circumstances.

Graduates who gain relevant professional experience during their Temporary Graduate visa may explore whether an employer-sponsored pathway is suitable.

6. Employer-Sponsored Regional Visa Subclass 494

The Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa subclass 494 is a provisional pathway for eligible skilled workers nominated by an approved regional employer.

Applicants need to satisfy the relevant regional employment, occupation, skills, age and English requirements, subject to any applicable exemptions. Eligible visa holders may later consider the subclass 191 permanent residence pathway.

Read our subclass 494 visa guide.

7. Partner and Family Migration Pathways

Some graduates may have circumstances that make a partner or family migration pathway relevant. For example, an eligible genuine relationship with an Australian citizen, permanent resident or eligible New Zealand citizen may provide access to an appropriate partner visa category.

These pathways have separate relationship, sponsorship, health and character requirements. A relationship should not be entered into for the purpose of obtaining a visa, and applicants must provide genuine and accurate evidence.

Compare the Main Australian Migration Pathways

For a better understanding of your potential points, use our Australia PR points calculator. You can also read our Australia PR points system guide and explore the main Australian permanent residency options.

How to Use Your 485 Visa Period Effectively

The period granted under the Temporary Graduate visa can be valuable for career development and migration planning. However, the visa is temporary, and graduates should avoid waiting until its expiry before considering their next steps.

Understand Your Occupation and Skills Assessment

Start by identifying the occupation that best matches your qualifications, skills and professional experience. Check whether the occupation is eligible for the migration pathway you are considering and identify the relevant assessing authority.

Skills assessments can involve detailed documentary requirements, including qualification evidence, employment references, professional registration and other supporting information. Starting early can help identify any gaps.

Improve Your English Score

Meeting the minimum English requirement for the 485 visa is different from achieving a competitive English score for skilled migration. Higher English proficiency may improve an applicant’s points position under relevant points-tested pathways.

Graduates should consider preparing for a higher English result if it is relevant to their future migration strategy.

Gain Relevant Australian Employment Experience

Employment can help graduates build practical skills, understand workplace expectations and develop professional networks. Where possible, applicants should look for work that is relevant to their education and intended occupation.

Maintain accurate employment records, including contracts, payslips, tax records and employer references. These documents may be useful if a future visa application requires evidence of employment.

Explore State and Regional Opportunities

State and territory nomination policies can differ considerably. Some jurisdictions may prioritise particular occupations, employment sectors or applicants who have established connections with the region.

Graduates should monitor the relevant state nomination requirements rather than assuming that one state’s criteria apply throughout Australia.

Plan Before Your Visa Expires

Review your available migration options well before your current visa expires. If another valid visa application is available, understand its eligibility requirements and the consequences of lodging it.

Depending on the circumstances, an eligible subsequent application may result in a bridging visa arrangement. However, bridging visa conditions and work rights are not identical in every case. Review the relevant grant notice and seek appropriate advice.

Our Bridging Visa A guide explains the general purpose of this visa.

Common 485 Visa Mistakes International Students Should Avoid

Many application problems arise because students rely on outdated information, misunderstand the eligibility period or choose the wrong visa stream. The following mistakes should be avoided.

Relying on Old Age Requirements

Some online information still refers to the previous age limit of 50 for general applicants. Most applicants now need to be 35 or younger, subject to specific exceptions. Always use the current requirements.

Assuming Everyone Receives the Same Visa Duration

The duration depends on the stream, qualification and applicable country-specific or regional arrangements. Applicants should not assume that all bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral graduates receive identical periods.

Using an Outdated English Score Table

English test requirements have changed. Applicants should check the requirements applicable to their test date, including the overall score and minimum component scores.

Missing the Six-Month Application Period

Waiting too long after completing a course can result in missing the application deadline. Students should obtain their completion evidence and prepare their application early.

Selecting the Wrong Visa Stream

The vocational and higher education streams have different qualification requirements. Selecting the wrong stream can create serious eligibility problems.

Assuming Regional Eligibility Without Checking

Not every location outside a major city qualifies for regional migration purposes. Applicants should check the official classification and applicable residence conditions.

Ignoring Additional Family Application Costs

Including a partner or children can increase the overall visa application budget. Calculate the full costs before lodging.

Waiting Until the Last Month to Plan Permanent Residency

Skills assessments, English tests, employment evidence and state nomination processes can take time. Graduates should explore their options well before their 485 visa expires.

Practical Checklist for Students Before Applying

Students approaching graduation can use the following checklist to organise their Temporary Graduate visa preparation.

• Confirm that the Australian course is eligible.
• Check whether the course satisfies the Australian study requirement.
• Obtain the formal course completion documentation.
• Identify the correct 485 visa stream.
• Check the age requirement and any applicable exception.
• Review the latest English test requirements.
• Arrange a valid English test result or qualifying passport evidence.
• Arrange adequate health insurance.
• Prepare identity and education documents.
• Review the previous visa history.
• Arrange the required Australian Federal Police check evidence.
• Check whether a skills assessment is required.
• Calculate the visa application charge for all applicants.
• Prepare the application through ImmiAccount.
• Plan possible future migration options before the visa expires.

Why Speak to GIEC Global UK About Australian Migration?

Understanding the Temporary Graduate visa is only one part of planning a longer-term future in Australia. Graduates may need to consider their occupation, skills assessment, English proficiency, employment opportunities and potential migration pathways before deciding what to do after their studies.

The GIEC Global UK immigration consultant team helps individuals understand migration requirements, review potential visa pathways and organise the information needed to make informed decisions.

Whether you are approaching graduation, preparing a subclass 485 application or exploring skilled migration after gaining Australian work experience, it is important to assess your circumstances against the current government requirements.

Immigration decisions are made by the Australian Government, and no consultant can guarantee a visa grant, invitation or permanent residence outcome. Professional guidance should be based on accurate information, relevant eligibility criteria and the applicant’s individual circumstances.

For information about longer-term migration options, visit our Australia migration services page.

Official Government Sources for the 485 Visa

Applicants should use official Australian Government information when checking visa eligibility, application charges, English requirements and application procedures.

• Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 – Department of Home Affairs
• Australian Visa Pricing Estimator
• Australian Visa Listing
• CRICOS – Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
• Australian Skilled Occupation List
• Skilled Independent Visa Subclass 189
• Skilled Nominated Visa Subclass 190

Conclusion: Is the 485 Visa Worth Considering After Graduation?

The Australian Temporary Graduate visa subclass 485 can be an important opportunity for international students who want to remain in Australia after completing their education. It provides eligible graduates with temporary work and study rights, allowing them to develop professional experience and consider their future career and migration plans.

However, the visa has specific requirements relating to age, qualification, previous visa status, English proficiency, health insurance and application timing. Changes introduced since 2024 also mean that students should not rely on older articles or outdated advice when assessing their eligibility.

The best approach is to identify the correct visa stream, prepare the required documents early and understand the conditions that apply to your circumstances. If permanent residency is a longer-term objective, use the Temporary Graduate period to assess suitable skilled, employer-sponsored or family migration options without assuming that a 485 visa automatically leads to permanent residence.

Check the latest Department of Home Affairs requirements before lodging your application and consider professional immigration guidance if your circumstances involve age exceptions, regional eligibility, previous visa issues or a complex migration history.

Important Disclaimer

This article is intended for general information and educational purposes. It does not constitute individual immigration or legal advice. Visa requirements, charges, English standards and eligibility conditions may change. Applicants should consult the latest Department of Home Affairs information and seek appropriately qualified professional advice where necessary.