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Temporary Graduate Visa
Subclass 485
The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa allows international students who have recently completed their studies in Australia to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily. It provides valuable post-study work rights and a potential pathway to permanent residency.
It is designed for applicants who:
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Have completed an eligible qualification in Australia within the last 6 months
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Hold an eligible student visa at the time of application
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Meet Australian study, English, health, and character requirements
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Wish to gain practical work experience or explore further visa pathways after graduation
Main Streams
There are three main streams under the Temporary Graduate Visa
Main Requirements
Hold an eligible student visa (Subclass 500) within the past 6 months
Have completed a CRICOS-registered course lasting at least 2 academic years (92 weeks)
Meet English proficiency requirements (e.g., IELTS 6.5 overall or equivalent)
Have adequate health insurance (Overseas Visitor Health Cover – OVHC)
Meet health and character requirements
Be under 35 years of age at the time of application. You can be under 50 years of age when you apply if you hold a Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport.
Processing Times
Processing times depend on the visa stream and completeness of documentation:
Graduate Work Stream
4 – 8 months
Post-Study Work Stream
2 – 4 months
Second Post-Study Work Stream
3 – 5 months
Costs & Fees
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Main applicant (online application)
AUD 2300
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Additional applicant (18+ years)
AUD 1150
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Additional applicant (under 18)
AUD 580
Visa application fees do not include health checks, police clearances, or biometrics fees, which may apply separately.
Key Benefits
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Live, study, and work in Australia temporarily after graduation
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Gain valuable post-study work experience in your field
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Include eligible family members in the same application
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No employer sponsorship required
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Pathway to skilled migration or employer-sponsored permanent visas
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Second Post-Study Work Stream available for regional graduates
Process
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Obtain your completion letter and final transcript from your Australian institution.
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Prepare required documents – passport, qualifications, English test results, and health insurance proof.
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Lodge your application online via ImmiAccount withinmonths of completing your course.
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Undertake health and character checks if requested.
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Wait for visa processing and decision notification.
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Once granted, begin full-time work or regional living as per your visa conditions.
Common Scenarios & Q&A
01. How long can I stay on a 485 visa?
The stay period depends on your qualification and stream. For example, 2 years for a bachelor’s degree, 3 years for a master’s and 4 years for a doctorate, and an extra 1–2 years under the Second Post-Study Work Stream if you studied in a regional area.
02. Can I include my family members?
Yes. You can include your partner and dependent children in your application. They will have the same work and study rights as you.
03. Can I study further while on this visa?
Yes, you can study, but you will not receive additional visa extensions based on new enrolment.
04. What happens if my visa expires while waiting for a decision?
You will usually be granted a Bridging Visa A (BVA) that lets you stay lawfully in Australia until a decision is made.
05. Is health insurance required?
Yes. You must maintain adequate health insurance (OVHC) during your stay in Australia on a 485 visa.
