Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa

Finished a degree in Australia and not ready to leave? The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa lets eligible recent international graduates stay, live and work in Australia temporarily — a valuable bridge while you gain experience or plan your next step toward permanent residence. We help you work out which stream fits your situation and prepare a well-organised application.

Who this visa is for (Post-Higher Education Work stream)

When you lodge, you generally need to:

• Hold an eligible student visa, or have held one within the last 6 months
• Meet the qualification and age requirements below
• Have the required level of English
• Hold adequate health insurance for your stay
• Meet the health and character requirements

Qualification and age requirements

• Bachelor's or master's (coursework or extended) graduates: completed within the last 6 months, after at least 2 academic years of study in Australia, and aged 35 years or under at the time of application.
• Master's (research) or doctoral graduates: completed within the last 6 months, after at least 2 academic years of study in Australia, with a higher age limit (under 50 — that is, 49 years of age or under).

A graduate diploma may also qualify in some cases where it follows on from an eligible qualification in a related field. Age and qualification settings have changed in recent years — we confirm the requirements currently in force before you apply.

How long the visa lasts

Visa periods depend on your qualification — generally up to two years for a bachelor's or master's by coursework, and up to three years for a master's by research or a doctorate. Longer periods apply to some graduates under specific arrangements, including eligible Indian nationals in certain fields. We confirm the term that applies to you.

The second (regional) Subclass 485

If your first Subclass 485 was connected to study in a designated regional area, and while holding it you lived, worked and studied only in designated regional areas for the required period, you may be eligible for a second Subclass 485 — giving you further time in regional Australia. The criteria are specific, so we assess whether your regional study and residence qualify you for this pathway.

How the application works

Before lodging, there are steps to prepare — from confirming your English results and health cover to obtaining an Australian Federal Police clearance. We guide you through each stage, review your documents, and lodge a complete application on your behalf. You must generally be in Australia when the application is lodged.