The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students who have completed at least two years of full-time study in Australia to remain temporarily, work, and gain valuable experience.

This visa has two main streams:

  • Post-Vocational Education Work Stream – for diploma, trade, or vocational graduates.
  • Post-Higher Education Work Stream – for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral graduates.

It is not a permanent visa but offers a bridge towards skilled migration and Australian permanent residency (PR).

Eligibility Criteria as of August 2025

Applicants must meet updated requirements from the Australian Department of Home Affairs:

  • Be under 35 years (50 for Hong Kong & BNO passport holders).
  • Hold an eligible Australian qualification.
  • Have completed two years of study in Australia within the last six months.
  • Meet the English language requirement (IELTS 6.5 overall, no band below 5.5).
  • Maintain Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC).
  • Apply for an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check before lodging the application.
  • Lodge the application within six months of course completion.

Step-by-Step Application Process

The 485 visa process involves several official steps:

  1. Collect all documents – passport, transcripts, completion letter, OVHC, English test result, AFP clearance.
  2. Book and pass English test if required.
  3. Apply for AFP clearance before submission.
  4. Purchase OVHC covering the visa stay period.
  5. Create an ImmiAccount on the Home Affairs website.
  6. Complete the online application and attach documents.
  7. Pay the fee – AUD 1,895 (primary applicant).
  8. Submit and receive TRN (Transaction Reference Number).
  9. Wait for processing – 6 to 10 months on average.
  10. Receive visa grant notice by email.

Visa Duration by Qualification

Vocational Qualification18 months
Bachelor’s / Master’s (Coursework)2 years
Master’s (Research)3 years
Doctorate (PhD)4 years
Hong Kong & BNO Passport Holders5 years

Regional graduates may get an extra 1–2 years extension under the “Second Post – Higher Education Work” stream.

Benefits and PR Pathways

  • Full work rights with no employer sponsorship required.
  • Opportunity to gain skilled work experience in Australia.
  • Pathways to PR through visas such as Subclass 189, 190, 491, or 186.
  • Freedom to travel in and out of Australia during validity.
  • Option to study additional courses.

Common Reasons for Visa Refusal

  • Incomplete or incorrect documents.
  • Missed six-month application deadline.
  • Failure to meet English or study requirements.
  • Not applying for AFP clearance before lodging.
  • Health or character issues.

Have you applied for a 485 visa recently? Share your experience in the comments and help other graduates prepare.

Sources:

  • Australian Department of Home Affairs – Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
  • Australian Government Study in Australia Portal