Stay in Australia after study to gain work experience

Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) lets eligible international graduates remain in Australia temporarily after completing an Australian qualification. The right stream and correct evidence are critical to avoid delays or refusal.

Overview Section

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) supports recent graduates to stay in Australia temporarily after finishing eligible studies. It can help you gain local work experience and strengthen future pathways — but stream selection, timing, and documents must be accurate.

Main streams include:
• Post-Higher Education Work stream
• Post-Vocational Education Work stream

Post-Higher Education Work Stream

For graduates who have completed an eligible higher education qualification in Australia. This stream is commonly used by university graduates who want time to build Australian work experience after study.

Post-Vocational Education Work Stream

For graduates whose qualification is closely linked to an occupation on the relevant skilled list and who can meet stream-specific requirements. This stream is typically used where your study outcome aligns to a skills pathway.

Not sure which stream applies? We can assess your study history, timing and documents before you lodge.

Key Benefits

Remain in Australia for 2 to 4 years (depending on qualification & stream).
Work full-time in any sector.
Include eligible family members.
Pathway to skilled visas (189, 190, 491) or employer-sponsored visas.
Build Australian work experience to boost PR prospects.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the 485 visa, you must:

Be under 50 years of age.
Hold an eligible visa (usually a Student Visa).
Have completed a CRICOS-registered course of at least 2 years.
Apply within 6 months of completing studies.
Meet the English language requirement (IELTS/PTE or equivalent).
Provide health insurance and satisfy health & character checks.

Application Process (Both Streams)

Confirm eligibility and gather documents.
Complete English language test (if required).
Apply online via ImmiAccount within 6 months of course completion.
Undergo health examinations and police checks.
Await Department of Home Affairs decision.

Processing Times (Indicative)

Post-Higher Education Work Stream: 6–12 months.
Post-Vocational Education Work Stream: 6–9 months.
(Times vary depending on demand and completeness of your application.)

Why Choose AusMigration Move?

MARN 2518775 – Trusted Registered Migration Agent.
Post-study visa experts – tailored guidance for graduates.
PR Planning – align your 485 with permanent residency strategies.
Transparent pricing – fixed fees, no surprises.
Support in multiple languages – including English, Vietnamese, and Indian languages.

FAQs

Q1: Can I apply for both streams?
No. You must apply for the stream that matches your highest eligible qualification.

Q2: Can I include my family?
Yes. You may include eligible partners and dependent children.

Q3: Do I need a job offer to apply?

No. But for the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream, your qualification must relate to a listed occupation and usually requires a positive skills assessment.

Q4: Can I apply for PR after the 485 visa?
Yes. The 485 visa is often used as a stepping stone to permanent residency through Skilled Migration or Employer-sponsored visas.

Employment Flexibility

This visa allows you to work full-time, giving you the chance to gain valuable experience in your field while establishing a career in Australia.

Further Study Options

With the Temporary Graduate Visa, you can also pursue additional studies, enhancing your skills and qualifications to improve your career prospects.

Networking Opportunities

Engage with industry professionals and like-minded peers, making connections that could lead to future job opportunities and collaborations.

Our Application Process

We guide you step by step through the Temporary Graduate Visa (485) application process. Our comprehensive resources break down each requirement and help you understand what to expect at every stage. Let’s make your journey clear and straightforward together.

“Thanks to this service, I successfully navigated the visa process. The guidance I received made all the difference in achieving my goals!”

John Doe

Temporary Graduate Visa

“I received the support I needed at every step. This team’s expertise was key to my successful application. Highly recommend them!”

Sarah Smith