Everything International Students Must Know About the 485 Visa

What is the 485 Graduate Visa?

Are you an international student planning to stay in Australia after your studies? The Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 could be your ideal pathway. This 485 visa Australia allows international graduates to live, work, and study temporarily in Australia.

The 485 Graduate Visa helps you gain valuable work experience, either full-time or part-time, in your field of study. It also opens doors to permanent residency pathways like the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) or Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190). Whether you’ve completed a diploma or a degree, the visa subclass 485 can be your stepping stone to a long-term career in Australia.

485 Visa Checklist

The 485 visa has three distinct streams:

• Post-Vocational Education Work stream (formerly Graduate Work Stream)

• Post-Higher Education Work stream (formerly Post-Study Work Stream)

• Second Post-Higher Education Work stream (for eligible graduates who have already held a 485 visa)

Your stream will determine your stay period and visa cost.

485 Visa Extension News

Recent updates to the Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 offer extended stay periods for eligible higher education graduates in areas of skill shortages such as IT, engineering, teaching, nursing, and allied health. For example:

• PhD graduates: 4 to 6 years

• Selected Master’s degrees: 3 to 5 years

• Selected Bachelor’s degrees: 2 to 4 years

Plus, regional students may be eligible for an additional 1-2 years depending on the campus location.

485 Visa Australia: Eligibility

To apply for the 485 Graduate Visa, you must:

• Be under 50 years of age

• Hold an eligible visa

• Have completed a CRICOS-registered qualification

• Meet the requirements of the stream you're applying under

For full details, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

Requirement

English Requirement for Visa Subclass 485

You may need to demonstrate your English proficiency through a test like IELTS Academic or General. IDP, co-owner of the IELTS test, can help you book and prepare for your exam at any Australian test centre.

Health Insurance Requirement

If you’re transitioning from a student visa, ensure your Overseas Visitors Health Cover (OVHC) begins as soon as your student visa ends. Submit proof of OVHC when applying for your visa subclass 485.

How to Apply for the 485 Visa

Applications for the Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 must be submitted online via the Department of Home Affairs website. Ensure you have all required documents and pay the fee at the time of application.

Processing Time and Costs

The cost and processing time for the 485 visa vary based on your stream and individual circumstances. You can check estimated timelines and updates directly on the Department’s website.

Ready to Apply? Get Professional Help

From choosing the right stream to compiling documents and understanding work rights, the 485 Graduate Visa process can be complex. For expert guidance and peace of mind, connect with the Best Migration Agent Adelaide today. Let professionals help you make the most of your post-study journey and move closer to your dream of permanent residency in Australia.