Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 Eligibility Requirements Application Guide

If you are an international student who recently completed your studies in Australia, the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) can be your gateway to staying longer, gaining valuable work experience, and even moving toward permanent residency. In this guide, we’ll explain what the 485 visa is, its streams, eligibility criteria, requirements, and the step-by-step application process.

What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?

The 485 visa allows international students who have finished their studies in Australia to live, study, and work temporarily. This visa is particularly popular among graduates looking to gain Australian work experience and improve their chances for future visas like Permanent Residency (PR).

The visa has two main streams:

• Graduate Work Stream – For international students with skills and qualifications relevant to occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

• Post-Study Work Stream – For students who have recently completed a higher education degree from an Australian institution.

Benefits of the 485 Visa

• Stay in Australia for 18 months to 4 years (depending on your stream and qualification).

• Full work rights, allowing you to work in any occupation.

• Opportunity to gain skilled work experience for PR pathways.

• Include eligible family members in your application.

Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 485 Visa

To qualify for the 485 visa, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Age Requirement

You must be under 50 years old at the time of application.

2. Visa Requirement

You should hold an eligible student visa in the last six months before applying.

3. Qualification Requirement

• For Graduate Work Stream, you need qualifications related to an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.

• For Post-Study Work Stream, you must have completed a higher education degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate) from an Australian institution.

4. English Language Proficiency

You must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or OET (unless you hold a passport from the UK, USA, Canada, NZ, or Ireland).

5. Health and Character Requirements

• Provide a health check-up report.

• Submit police clearance certificates for good character.

Required Documents for 485 Visa Application

When applying for the Temporary Graduate Visa, make sure you prepare the following documents:

• Passport copy (valid)

• Completed Australian study requirement evidence

• English language test results

• Health insurance (Overseas Visitor Health Cover – OVHC)

• AFP (Australian Federal Police) clearance

• Skills assessment (for Graduate Work Stream)

Application Process for 485 Visa

Here is the step-by-step process to apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Prepare your identification, study completion evidence, English test results, and health cover.

Step 2: Apply Online via ImmiAccount

Log in to your ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website and fill in the application form.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

The base application fee starts from AUD 1,895.

Step 4: Complete Health and Character Checks

Schedule a health examination and upload your police clearance.

Step 5: Wait for the Outcome

Processing times vary:

• Graduate Work Stream – around 10 months

• Post-Study Work Stream – around 8 months

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How Long Can You Stay on a 485 Visa?

• Graduate Work Stream – Up to 18 months (recently extended to 24 months for some applicants).

• Post-Study Work Stream – 2 to 4 years, depending on your qualification level.

Tips to Increase Chances of Approval

• Apply within 6 months of completing your course.

• Ensure your health insurance is active during the application.

• Double-check all documents before submission.

• Lodge the application while you are in Australia on an eligible visa.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

The 485 visa gives you valuable time to:

• Gain work experience in your nominated occupation.

• Apply for General Skilled Migration (GSM) visas like Subclass 189, 190, or 491.

• Increase your points for PR through work experience and English proficiency.

Final Thoughts

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is an excellent opportunity for international students to extend their stay in Australia, gain work experience, and prepare for permanent residency. Make sure you understand the eligibility requirements, required documents, and application process to avoid delays or refusal.

If you need expert assistance, consult a registered migration agent to ensure a smooth and successful visa application.