The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is the essential bridge between completing an Australian qualification and qualifying for permanent residency. It provides international graduates with unrestricted work rights in Australia, allowing you to gain local professional employment, complete professional year programs, and secure state nomination or employer sponsorship.
Key Streams Under Subclass 485
Higher Education
Post-Higher Education Work Stream
For international students graduating with an eligible Australian Bachelor, Master, or PhD qualification. Length of stay: Bachelor (2 years), Master by coursework (2 years), Master by research or PhD (3 years).
Age threshold: Under 35 (or under 50 for Masters by Research / PhD).
Vocational / Trades
Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
For graduates with diplomas, advanced diplomas, or trade qualifications that closely relate to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Grants up to 18 months of work rights.
Requires provisional skills assessment outcome.
Eligibility Criteria
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Australian Study Requirement: Completed a registered CRICOS course of at least 2 academic years (92 CRICOS weeks) over a minimum of 16 calendar months.
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Strict 6-Month Lodgement Deadline: Apply within 6 months of your course completion date (as stated on your official Letter of Completion).
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English Proficiency: Minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each band) or PTE Academic overall 57 taken within 1 year before application.
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Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC): Must hold adequate health insurance from the day your student visa expires.
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Australian Federal Police (AFP) Check: Provide an AFP National Police Check receipt at the time of visa lodgement.
Frequently Asked Questions — Subclass 485
No. You can only be granted the Subclass 485 visa once as a primary applicant (except for holders eligible for a Second Post-Study Work stream in designated regional areas).
Yes. You can include your spouse, de facto partner, and dependent children in your application. Dependents receive full, unrestricted Australian work and study rights.
While holding a 485 visa, graduates accumulate 1 year of onshore Australian skilled employment (+5 points), complete a Professional Year (+5 points), or secure employer sponsorship (SID 482 / ENS 186) or state nomination (190 / 491).