The Australian post-study work permit, officially known as the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), allows eligible international students to remain in Australia after completing their studies. It’s designed to help graduates gain practical work experience, build a career, and potentially transition to permanent residency.
What the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) Offers
With the Australian post-study work visa, you can:
- Stay in Australia after graduating from a CRICOS-registered course
- Include family members in your application, such as your partner or children (they must meet health and character requirements)#
- Work full-time in any sector, with no restrictions on hours
If you’re planning to study in Australia, this visa is a key pathway to building your future there. Learn more about eligibility, visa types, and how to apply below, or book a free consultation to get started.
Types of Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
As part of its 2024 Migration Strategy, the Australian Government restructured the Temporary Graduate visa into three distinct streams:
1. Post-Higher Education Work Stream
Focus: For graduates with higher education qualifications aligned with national skills needs.
- Age Limit: 18–35 years
- Exceptions: Master’s (research) and PhD graduates, and Hong Kong/BNO passport holders (up to 50 years)
- Eligible Qualifications: Bachelor’s, Bachelor’s (Honours), Master’s, or Doctoral degrees
- Study Requirements:
- Completed a CRICOS-registered course within the last 6 months
- The course must span at least 16 months and 2 academic years
- Cost: From AUD 1,945
- Stay Duration:
- Bachelor’s and Master’s (coursework/extended): Up to 2 years
- Master’s (research) and PhD: Up to 3 years
- Hong Kong/BNO passport holders: Up to 5 years
- Indian nationals under ECTA: Up to 4 years for PhDs
2. Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
(Previously the Graduate Work Stream)
Focus: For vocational graduates with skills aligned to Australia’s strategic workforce needs.
- Age Limit: 18–35 years
- Exceptions: Hong Kong and BNO passport holders (up to 50 years)
- Eligible Qualifications: Associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification
- Must be closely related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
- Study Requirements:
- Completed a CRICOS-registered course within the last 6 months
- The course must span at least 16 months and 2 academic years
- Cost: From AUD 1,945
- Stay Duration:
- Up to 18 months
- Up to 5 years for Hong Kong and BNO passport holders
3. Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream
(Previously the Second Post-Study Work Stream)
Focus: For graduates who studied in a designated regional area of Australia.
- Eligibility: Must have held a Temporary Graduate visa under the Post-Higher Education stream
- Stay Duration:
- An additional 1 or 2 years, depending on the regional classification of your institution and residence during your first 485 visa
Eligibility for the Post-Study Work Visa in Australia (Subclass 485)
To apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) you must meet specific eligibility criteria. These requirements ensure that applicants have completed recognised studies and are prepared to contribute to Australia’s workforce.
General Eligibility Criteria
You must:
1. Be under 35 years of age at the time of application
- Exceptions:
- Master’s (research) and PhD graduates
- Hong Kong and British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders (eligible up to age 50)
2. Have held a Student visa (subclass 500) within the last six months
- You must have completed a CRICOS-registered course in Australia
- Your course must have lasted at least 16 calendar months and spanned 2 academic years
3. Apply for an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check
- You must provide proof that you’ve applied for this check when submitting your visa application
4. Meet English language requirements
- Accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, OET, and Cambridge C1 Advanced
- Minimum scores vary by stream, but typically require:
- IELTS: Overall 6.0, with no band below 5.0
- PTE Academic: Overall 50, with no communicative skill below 36
5. Hold a relevant qualification
- Your qualification must align with the stream you’re applying for (e.g. higher education or vocational)
- Vocational stream applicants must ensure their qualification is closely related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
6. Apply from within Australia
- You must be physically in Australia when you apply and when the visa is granted
Visa Fees
As of 2025, the base application fee is AUD 1,945. Additional charges apply for family members included in the application.
Graduate 485 Visa Processing Times
Processing times for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) can vary depending on the stream you apply for and the completeness of your application. On average, the Post-Study Work Stream takes around 5 to 7 months, while the Graduate Work Stream may take 7 to 9 months. Delays often occur when applicants submit incomplete documentation, fail to meet health or character requirements, or experience issues with biometrics or medical checks.
To avoid unnecessary delays, ensure all documents are accurate, certified, and submitted on time. StudyIn’s visa consultants can help you prepare a complete application and track updates throughout the process.
Why Work in Australia After Graduation?
Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international students, and for good reason. With a strong economy, vibrant multicultural society, and generous post-study work rights, it offers a unique opportunity to launch your global career. Here’s why working in Australia after graduation is a smart move:
1. Wider Scope of Career Opportunities
Australia ranks among the world’s top economies, offering a dynamic and diverse job market for international graduates. Whether you’re pursuing a career in business, healthcare, engineering, IT, finance, or education, Australia provides a wealth of opportunities across both public and private sectors. The country’s focus on innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation means graduates can find roles in emerging industries as well as traditional fields.
With strong demand for skilled professionals, working in Australia can significantly accelerate your career growth and open doors to global opportunities.
2. Home to Leading Multinational Companies
Australia hosts a thriving ecosystem of multinational corporations and global brands, making it an attractive destination for ambitious graduates. With an employment rate of 64.5%, the country offers access to top-tier employers such as Google, Microsoft, Westpac, Telstra, Deloitte, and Amazon, many of which have regional headquarters or major operations in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
These companies offer competitive salaries, structured graduate programmes, and long-term career development. Working in Australia gives you the chance to build a professional network and gain experience with globally recognised organisations.
3. Pathway to Permanent Residency in Australia
One of the biggest advantages of the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is its role as a stepping stone to permanent residency (PR). By gaining skilled work experience in Australia after graduation, you may become eligible for migration pathways such as the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or Employer Sponsored visas. The Australian Government actively encourages international graduates to stay and contribute to the workforce, especially in areas facing skill shortages.
Building your career in Australia not only enhances your professional profile but also strengthens your case for long-term settlement.
4. Gain Valuable Work Experience
The post-study work visa allows international students to gain hands-on experience in the Australian job market, helping them develop practical skills, industry knowledge, and workplace confidence. Whether you work in a startup, a hospital, a school, or a corporate office, the experience you gain will be highly valued by employers worldwide.
You’ll learn to navigate professional environments, collaborate across cultures, and adapt to global standards, all of which are essential for long-term career success. This real-world exposure also helps you identify your strengths and refine your career goals.
5. Boost Your Global Employability
Australian work experience is a powerful addition to your CV, enhancing your employability both in Australia and internationally. Employers around the world recognise the value of Australian qualifications and professional standards. Graduates who have lived and worked in Australia are often seen as adaptable, skilled, and culturally aware, traits that are highly sought after in today’s globalised job market.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
The 485 visa is often the first step toward securing permanent residency (PR) in Australia. By gaining skilled work experience during your visa period, you may become eligible for various PR pathways, including:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189): points-tested and does not require sponsorship
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190): requires state or territory nomination
- Employer-Sponsored Visas (Subclass 186 or 482): based on job offers from approved employers
- Regional Visas (Subclass 491 or 494): offer extra points and faster PR processing for work in designated regional areas
For example, working in a regional area for three years may qualify you for permanent residency under the Subclass 191 visa. StudyIn can help you assess your PR options and plan a strategic pathway based on your qualifications and work experience.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many applicants make avoidable errors that can lead to visa rejection or delays. Common mistakes include:
- Missing the six-month deadline: You must apply for the 485 visa within six months of completing your course.
- Submitting incomplete documents: Missing transcripts, health checks, or police clearance can delay processing.
- Choosing the wrong visa stream: Applying under the incorrect stream may result in ineligibility.
- Failing to maintain valid health cover: You must hold adequate health insurance throughout the visa period.
To avoid these pitfalls, seek expert advice early. StudyIn’s experienced consultants can help you choose the right stream, prepare your documents, and submit a compliant application on time.
Apply for a Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) Visa
Need help navigating your 485 visa application? Contact StudyIn for personalised support and expert advice. We’ll guide you through every step, from eligibility checks to document preparation, so you can focus on building your future in Australia.
FAQs
What is the 485 Post-Study Work Visa?
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students to live, work, and study in Australia after completing an eligible course. It provides a valuable opportunity to gain professional experience and explore pathways to permanent residency.
Who can apply for the Post-Study Work Stream?
This stream is for international students who have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree at an Australian institution. It offers between two and four years of stay depending on the qualification and location of study.
Who is eligible for the Graduate Work Stream?
Students with vocational or trade qualifications related to occupations on the Skilled Occupation List may apply under this stream. It typically allows an 18-month stay, with some recent extensions offering up to 24 months.
What are the key eligibility requirements?
Applicants must have held a valid student visa within the last six months, completed a CRICOS-registered course, meet English language requirements, hold adequate health insurance, and pass health and character checks.
What documents are required for the application?
You’ll need your passport, academic transcripts, completion letter, English test results, health insurance documents, AFP clearance, and health examination results. Proof of funds may be requested in some cases.
How do I apply for the 485 visa?
Applications are submitted online via the Department of Home Affairs ImmiAccount. You’ll need to pay the visa fee, upload all required documents, and complete any biometrics or health checks. StudyIn can assist with preparing and submitting your application.
How long does the visa take to process?
Processing times range from five to nine months depending on the stream and the completeness of your application. Delays may occur due to missing documents or outstanding health checks.
What work rights do I have on the 485 visa?
You can work full-time for the duration of your visa. You’re also free to live and travel anywhere in Australia. Dependents included in your application may also be eligible for work and study rights.
Can the 485 visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes. Work experience gained on the 485 visa can support applications for skilled migration, employer-sponsored visas, or state and territory nominations. Regional work may offer additional PR benefits.
