The Temporary Graduate subclass 485 Visa is a work visa for international students who have completed university and certain vocational courses in Australia.
It can last between 18 months and 4 years, depending on your unique situation.
It is an excellent option for recent university or certain vocational graduates to extend their stay in Australia beyond their studies, helping them pursue remaining in Australia permanently (through General Skilled Migration or employer sponsorship). It is not points tested and nor does it require an employer to sponsor you!
Post Study Work Stream
The Post Study Work Stream is easier to apply. If you are eligible for this visa, it is usually the preference when compared to the Graduate Work Stream. However, to apply for this visa you must have studied at a higher education institution and at least bachelor level
The Graduate Work Stream
The Graduate Work Stream of this visa is most suitable for applicants who have not studied at a bachelor level, but still studied a vocational course at the appropriate level for a position that features on the MLTSSL. Many trade courses fall under this category.
Good to know
- Points Test: The Graduate Visa is not points-tested
- Sponsorship: The Graduate Visa does not require Employer Sponsorship
Common Requirements
- Be under 50 years of age.
- Be in Australia when you make your application
- Must maintain private health insurance (OVHC) while on a 485 Graduate Visa.
- Meet the two-year study requirement and have completed qualifications within six months of applying for the visa. You must have been In Australia for at least 16 months studying the course
- Have a minimum English level of IELTS 6, with no score lower than 5 (or equivalent English test) – unless you hold a passport for UK, USA, NZ, Ireland or Canada. The English test must have been taken within 3 years of your application
- Have not previously been a primary holder of the temporary graduate or skilled graduate visa
Common Questions
Can I apply In Australia or Overseas?
Can I include my family?
Spouses, de facto partners and same-sex partners
If you already hold a 485 visa, you can apply for family members to join you in Australia on 485 visas.
What are the visa conditions?
You must maintain private health insurance (OVHC) while on a 485 Graduate Visa.
How long will the 485 Visa be valid for?
The Graduate Work Stream:
This visa will be valid for 18 months from the date of grant of the application
Post Study Work Stream:
The duration of yours will depend on the qualification you have completed:
- Bachelor’s degree, Bachelor with Honours, Masters by Coursework or Masters (Extended) (minimum two years)
- Masters by Research (three years)
- Doctorate (four years)
Potential pathways
This visa cannot be extended.
However, holders of a Graduate Visa may be able to obtain permanent residency via applying for a Employer Sponsored Visa with either the 482 or 186 visa. General skilled migration visas Including the Skilled Independent 189 visa, or a regional skilled or State nominated visa ie. 491 or 190 visa.
Superior migration expertise at your side.
Are you a graduate?
We can help you find the best post-study pathway for living and working in Australia. Contact us and speak to one of our immigration specialists today.
