Migration Overseas
The Temporary Graduate visa lets international students work in Australia after completing their studies. Gain Australian work experience, build your career, and create pathways to permanent residency.
The 485 visa has two streams depending on your qualification type.
For graduates with skills and qualifications related to an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL). Requires skills assessment.
For graduates with a degree from an Australian institution. Duration depends on qualification level and study location. No skills assessment needed.
Your visa duration depends on your qualification and where you studied.
Key eligibility criteria for the Subclass 485 Graduate visa.
Step-by-step guide to obtaining your 485 Graduate visa.
Finish your eligible Australian qualification and receive your completion letter. You have 6 months from completion to apply.
Before ApplyingBook and complete an English proficiency test. Results should be less than 3 years old at time of application.
2-4 WeeksIf applying under Graduate Work stream, get your skills assessed by the relevant assessing authority for your occupation.
4-12 WeeksSubmit your application online through ImmiAccount with all required documents including qualification transcripts, English test results, and health insurance.
1-2 WeeksComplete medical examination at a panel clinic and provide police clearance certificates from all countries lived in for 12+ months.
2-4 WeeksWait for your visa outcome. You'll receive a Bridging Visa A while your application is processed, allowing you to work full-time in Australia.
2-6 Months ProcessingUnderstand the fees involved in your 485 visa application.
Visa application charge for main applicant
Adult dependents / Children under 18
English test, medicals, police checks, health insurance
485 visa holders have multiple pathways to permanent residency.
Use your work experience to qualify for permanent residency through various skilled visa options
Find answers to the most common questions about this visa category.
Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate Visa) allows international graduates to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily after completing Australian qualifications.
Graduate Work stream (18 months, occupation on skills list) and Post-Study Work stream (2-6 years, based on qualification level regardless of occupation).
Bachelor's/Masters by coursework: 2 years (4 years if regional). Masters by research: 3 years (5 years regional). Doctorate: 4 years (6 years regional).
You must have completed at least 2 years of study in Australia, hold a relevant qualification, be under 50 years old, and meet English requirements (IELTS 6.0 each).
Apply within 6 months of course completion (receiving final results). You must hold a valid student visa at time of application and be in Australia.
Yes, there are no work restrictions on Subclass 485. You can work full-time for any employer in any occupation during your visa validity.
485 provides time to gain Australian work experience and pursue PR pathways like skilled migration (189/190/491) or employer sponsorship (482/186).
Yes, spouse/de facto partner and dependent children can be included or added later. They can work and study in Australia.
Graduates who studied and live in regional Australia receive extended visa duration (up to 2 extra years) under the Post-Study Work stream.
Special provisions allowed online study during COVID-19 to count toward the 2-year study requirement. Check current policy for specific situations.
Let our experts guide you through the 485 Graduate visa process. Start working full-time in Australia after your studies.
Get Free AssessmentReady to explore your immigration options? Our expert team in Vadodara is here to guide you every step of the way. Get a free eligibility assessment and take the first step towards your dream destination.
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