The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is a popular visa option for international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution. It allows graduates to stay in Australia temporarily to gain work experience, improve their skills, and explore pathways to permanent residency. In this guide, we will cover the streams, eligibility, requirements, costs, and application process for the Subclass 485 Visa.
What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
The Subclass 485 Visa allows international students to remain in Australia after their studies to live, work, and study. It is designed to give graduates valuable work experience and increase their chances of securing long-term visas or permanent residency.
This visa is temporary, with the length of stay depending on the chosen stream and the applicant’s qualifications.
Streams of the Subclass 485 Visa
The Subclass 485 Visa has different streams to cater to graduates from various levels of study:
1. Graduate Work Stream
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For graduates with qualifications that relate to occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
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Valid for up to 18 months (extended to 24 months for Hong Kong passport holders)
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Designed for vocational education and training (VET) graduates
2. Post-Study Work Stream
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For graduates with higher education degrees (Bachelor, Master’s, or PhD)
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Duration:
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Bachelor or Master’s by coursework: 2 years
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Master’s by research: 3 years
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Doctoral degree: 4 years
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Open to those who applied for their first student visa on or after 5 November 2011
3. Second Post-Study Work Stream
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Available to graduates who studied and lived in regional Australia
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Duration: Additional 1–2 years depending on location
Eligibility for the Subclass 485 Visa
To qualify for the Temporary Graduate Visa, you must:
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Be under 50 years of age
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Hold an eligible visa at the time of application
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Have completed an eligible Australian qualification in the last 6 months
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Meet English language requirements
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Provide evidence of health insurance
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Meet health and character requirements
also read- Work Visa Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (Subclass 186)
Cost of the Subclass 485 Visa
The application fees for the 485 Visa are:
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Main applicant: AUD $1,895
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Additional applicant (18 and over): AUD $950
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Additional applicant (under 18): AUD $475
Additional costs include:
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Health examinations: AUD $150–$300
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Police clearance certificates: Cost varies by country
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English test fees (if required)
How to Apply for the Subclass 485 Visa
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Ensure you meet all requirements, including completing an eligible course in Australia.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
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Passport
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Academic transcripts and completion letter
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English test results
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Health insurance
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Police clearance certificates
Step 3: Lodge Application via ImmiAccount
Submit the application online and attach all required documents.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the visa fee at the time of submission.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Respond promptly if the Department of Home Affairs requests further information.
Processing Time for the Subclass 485 Visa
Processing times depend on the stream:
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Graduate Work Stream: 75% in 7 months, 90% in 10 months
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Post-Study Work Stream: 75% in 6 months, 90% in 9 months
Benefits of the Subclass 485 Visa
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Gain Australian work experience
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Improve chances of securing skilled visas or permanent residency
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Opportunity to live and work in regional Australia for additional benefits
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Bring eligible family members to Australia
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Many graduates use the 485 Visa as a stepping stone to permanent residency through:
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Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
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Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
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Employer Sponsored Visas (Subclass 186 or 482)
Final Thoughts
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is a valuable opportunity for international students to remain in Australia, gain work experience, and explore pathways to permanent residency. By understanding the streams, meeting all requirements, and applying correctly, graduates can maximise their time in Australia and build a strong career foundation.
If you are a recent graduate, the Subclass 485 Visa could be your gateway to a successful future in Australia.
