Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Work in Australia After Completing Your Studies
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students who have completed eligible Australian qualifications to live, work, and gain professional experience in Australia after graduation.
Our Registered Migration Agents in Melbourne provide accurate eligibility assessment, document verification, and strategic visa planning to help graduates make the most of their post-study work rights while staying compliant with Australian immigration law.
What Is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
The Subclass 485 visa is a temporary post-study work visa designed for international students who have recently completed an eligible course in Australia.
This visa allows you to:
- Live in Australia temporarily after graduation
- Work full-time with no hour restrictions
- Gain Australian skilled work experience
- Improve eligibility for future skilled or employer-sponsored visas
Important: This visa does not guarantee permanent residency. Strategic planning is essential.
This visa supports Australia’s labour market needs across multiple industries, from healthcare and trades to specialist and priority roles.
Streams Under the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
1) Post-Higher Education Work Stream
For graduates who have completed:
- Bachelor degree
- Master’s degree (coursework or research)
- Doctoral degree
Visa duration:
- Bachelor: up to 2 years
- Master’s (Coursework): up to 3 years
- Master’s (Research): up to 3 years
- Doctoral degree (PhD): up to 3 years
2) Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
For graduates who have completed:
- Diploma or trade qualification
- Occupation closely related to a skilled occupation list
Visa duration:
- Up to 18 months
Eligibility Requirements – Subclass 485
To apply, you must meet all of the following:
Australian Study Requirement
- Completed at least 2 academic years of study
- Course must be CRICOS-registered
- Study completed in Australia
Age Requirement
- Under 35 years of age at time of application
(Some limited exemptions may apply)
Student Visa History
- Must have held a Student Visa (Subclass 500) in the last 6 months
English Language Requirement
- Evidence via IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or accepted equivalent
Health & Character
- Medical examinations
- Police clearance certificates
- Biometrics if requested
Health Insurance
- Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) for the visa duration
How V CAN Migration Services Helps
We don’t just lodge applications. We plan outcomes.
Our process includes:
- 485 Eligibility & Stream Assessment
- Course & Completion Evidence Review
- English & Health Requirement Check
- Document & Deadline Management
- Visa Lodgement with Home Affairs
- Future Migration Pathway Planning
Our focus is risk reduction and long-term strategy, not guesswork.
Key Benefits of the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
- Full-Time Work Rights
Work unrestricted hours across any industry.
- Australian Work Experience
Gain local experience valued by Australian employers and assessing authorities.
- Skilled Migration Preparation
Build points and experience for skilled visas, such as Subclass 189, 190, or 491 (subject to eligibility).
- Employer Sponsorship Opportunities
Potential pathway to employer-sponsored visas like Subclass 482 or 186.
Important Conditions You Must Know
Sponsored workers must be paid:
- ❌ You can apply for Subclass 485 only once
- ❌ Extensions are not automatic
- ❌ Incorrect course selection may make you ineligible
- ❌ Delays after course completion can result in missed deadlines
This is where many students fail. Timing and documentation matter.
Why Choose V CAN Migration Services?
- Registered Migration Agent-led advice
- Melbourne-based graduate visa specialists
- Strong understanding of post-study pathways
- Transparent, compliant, no false promises
Need Help With Your Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
Speak with Registered Migration Agents at V CAN Migration Services – Melbourne for accurate advice and strategic post-study planning.
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Between 18 months and 3 years, depending on your qualification.
Yes. There are no work hour restrictions.
Yes, eligible dependents can be included.
Yes. OVHC is mandatory.
Possibly, through skilled or employer-sponsored visas, if eligible.
You may lose eligibility permanently. Immediate advice is critical.