Temporary Graduate Visa — Subclass 485
Temporary Graduate Visa for Australia
The temporary graduate visa (subclass 485) allows international graduates of Australian institutions to live and work in Australia after completing an eligible qualification. It is the primary post-study pathway and the most common bridging step toward skilled migration and permanent residence.
Subclass 485 — eligibility overview
To be eligible, the applicant must have held a student visa (subclass 500) within the six months prior to applying, have completed a CRICOS-registered course in Australia totalling at least two academic years (92 weeks) completed over no less than 16 calendar months, and have met the English language requirement of at least IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 5.5.
The application must be lodged within six months of the course completion date. This deadline is strict. The stream cannot be changed after lodgement. Selecting the wrong stream at the time of application results in refusal.
As at 1 March 2026, visa application charges for the subclass 485 have increased. The applicant must also be under 35 years of age at the time of application, with exceptions for Masters by Research and doctoral graduates who may apply up to age 50.
Visa streams and stay periods
Post-Higher Education Work Stream
For graduates with a bachelor, masters, or doctoral degree from a registered Australian institution. Stay period of 2 years for bachelor and masters by coursework, 3 years for masters by research and doctoral degrees. Hong Kong and BNO passport holders receive 5 years regardless of degree level.
Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
For graduates of vocational education and training (VET) courses that relate to an occupation on Australia's skilled occupation list. Stay period is 18 months.
Regional bonus
Graduates who lived and studied in a designated regional area may be eligible for an additional one to two years of stay through the Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream.
485
Visa subclass
6 months
Application deadline after completion
IELTS 6.5
Minimum English requirement
Under 35
Age limit (exceptions apply)
Why instruct Visa Plan?
Stream selection
Selecting the wrong stream at lodgement results in refusal, as streams cannot be changed after the application is submitted. We confirm the correct stream before anything is lodged.
Deadline management
The six-month application window from course completion is strict. We identify the correct completion date and manage the application timeline to avoid a missed deadline.
PR pathway planning
The subclass 485 is a stepping stone, not a destination. We advise on skilled migration pathways, employer-sponsored options, and points strategies during the 485 period.
Temporary graduate visa information is sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and Study Australia and is current as at April 2026. Fees, eligibility criteria, and stay periods are subject to change. This page provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.