Graduate Visas in Australia

Graduate visas allow international students to remain in Australia after completing their studies to gain work experience, build employability, and prepare for future skilled or employer-sponsored visa pathways.

Temporary Graduate Visa 485 – AusMigration Move Melbourne

What Are Graduate Visas?

Graduate visas apply after study completion and sit between Student Visas and longer-term migration options.

They are designed to:

  • Provide full-time work rights

  • Allow graduates to gain Australian experience

  • Support eligibility for future visas

Outcomes depend on occupation, location, and policy settings at the time.

Available Graduate Visa

Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

A post-study work visa for eligible international graduates.

What Comes After a Graduate Visa?

A graduate visa is often used as a transition period, not an outcome.

Depending on your occupation, location, and experience, the next step may involve:

Points-tested visas for skilled workers based on occupation, qualifications, age, English level, and experience, allowing eligible applicants to apply independently or with state nomination.

Visas that allow Australian employers to sponsor overseas workers where genuine skill shortages exist, subject to employer approval, occupation eligibility, and visa-specific requirements.

Visa options that support migration to designated regional areas of Australia, often offering additional points or pathways where applicants live and work in eligible locations.

Unsure which graduate option fits your situation?

Choosing the correct visitor visa before applying can save time, money, and stress. We can assess your situation and guide you through the right pathway.

Receive the latest news

Stay Updated with the Latest Australian Visa News​

Expert tips, migration updates, processing alerts & changes from the Department of Home Affairs — straight to your inbox.

Newsletter Subscribers