Temporary Graduate Visa – Subclass 485
Work in Australia After Graduation
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows eligible international students to live, study, and work in Australia after completing their Australian qualification. This visa provides valuable post-study work experience and serves as a bridge to permanent residency pathways.
ABEE’S Consultancy prepares accurate 485 submissions aligned with Australian Study Requirements, course completion timelines, and English validity criteria.
Streams of Subclass 485
1. Graduate Work Stream
For graduates with skills closely related to an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.
- Valid for 18 months (or as updated by policy settings)
- Requires skills assessment (unless exempt)
- Suitable for trade graduates and diploma-level qualifications
2. Post-Study Work Stream
For graduates with higher education qualifications (Bachelor, Masters, PhD).
- Stay period may vary depending on qualification
- No occupation requirement
- For first-time Australian graduates only
3. Second Post-Study Work Stream
For applicants who studied and lived in a designated regional area.
- Additional stay period
- Must meet regional study and residence criteria
4. Replacement Stream
For holders impacted by COVID-19 travel restrictions.
Subclass 485 Eligibility Requirements
1. Australian Qualification Completion
Applicants must:
- Complete a CRICOS-registered course
- Meet the minimum 92 weeks and 16 calendar months study requirement
- Apply within the allowed timeframe after course completion
2. English Language Requirement
Applicants must provide:
- Valid English test results
- Test must be taken within 1 year before lodgement
3. Skills Assessment (Graduate Work Stream Only)
Must be lodged or approved at the time of visa lodgement, depending on specific stream requirements.
4. Health & Character Requirements
Medical examinations and police clearances required.
5. Adequate Health Insurance
OSHC or equivalent coverage must be maintained.
6. Age Requirement
Applicant must be under 50 years old.
Subclass 485 Application Process
Step 1
Confirm eligible stream (Graduate Work or Post-Study Work).
Step 2
Complete course and obtain completion letter + transcript.
Step 3
Prepare English test result.
Step 4
Arrange health insurance.
Step 5
Lodge visa within required timeframe.
Step 6
Provide health and character documents.
Step 7
Receive bridging visa (if lodged onshore).
Step 8
Await Department decision.
Full work rights are granted once the 485 visa is approved.
There are no restrictions on employment hours.
Applicants may include:
- Partner (married or de facto)
- Dependent children
Family members must meet health and character requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions – Subclass 485
Can I apply for 485 after my student visa expires?
Application must be lodged within the allowed period after course completion, generally while still holding a valid visa.
Do I need to have finished my graduation ceremony?
No. Completion is based on meeting academic requirements, not the ceremony.
Can I include my partner later?
Yes, eligible family members may be added after lodgement.
Can I apply again for 485?
Generally, 485 is granted once only, except for eligible Second Post-Study Work Stream applicants.
ABEE’S Consultancy Approach – Subclass 485 Visas
ABEE’S Consultancy ensures your 485 visa application is presented clearly and accurately with:
- Compliance with Australian Study Requirements
- Correct stream selection
- Accurate preparation of course completion evidence
- Clear timeline planning for lodgement
- Eligibility review for partner and children
- Red-flag assessment (e.g., expired CoEs, English timeline, skills assessment needs)
Every application is prepared to meet legislative criteria under Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 of the Migration Regulations 1994.
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