Temporary Graduate Visa – Subclass 485
If you’re about to complete your studies in Australia and want to gain valuable work experience, the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) may be a suitable option. This visa allows eligible graduates to stay in Australia temporarily after finishing their studies, giving them time to work, travel, and explore future visa pathways.
The Subclass 485 visa allows you to stay in Australia for approximately 2 to 4 years after you complete your studies. During this period, you can gain work experience, look for employment independently, and even study further if you choose.
Your stay period may vary depending on your completed qualification, for example:
- Doctoral degree (PhD): up to 4 years
- Masters (research or coursework): up to 3 years
- Other eligible qualifications may provide different durations (subject to rules)
The application cost for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is AUD $2,300 for the primary applicant. Additional costs apply for secondary applicants (family members), and other requirements such as health checks and police certificates.
- 18 years and above: AUD $1,115
- Under 18 years: AUD $560
- Health examinations
- Police certificates / AFP checks
- Biometrics (if required)
To apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), you generally must:
- Be under 50 years of age
- Hold a current student visa (excluding certain special cases)
- Have been granted your first student visa on or after 5 November 2011
- Hold an eligible qualification (Bachelor, Masters, or Doctoral degree)
- A standalone diploma or trade qualification may not be eligible
- Have held a student visa in the last 6 months and hold an eligible bridging/substantive visa
- Have completed a CRICOS-registered course (where required)
- Have adequate health insurance for all applicants included
- Provide evidence you have applied for an AFP check
- Meet English language requirements
- Not have any outstanding debt to the Australian Government
- Not have a cancelled visa or previous refusal (where applicable)
The Subclass 485 visa is not generally designed to be extended. However, some applicants may be eligible for a second Post-Study Work visa if they meet specific requirements, such as living, working, and/or studying in a designated regional area during their first 485 visa.
- Temporary graduate visa holders from Hong Kong may apply for permanent residency after 5 years (if eligible)
- Some applicants affected by COVID-19 restrictions may be able to apply from outside Australia
Need help with your Subclass 485 visa?
Contact Zen Migration for eligibility checks, document preparation, and complete post-study visa support.