Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

Understanding the Subclass 485 Visa

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows recent international graduates to stay in Australia temporarily after their studies for work, further training, or professional development. As of 1 July 2024, this visa features two focused streams for clearer and more equitable access.

Subclass 485 Streams Overview

The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa allows international students who have recently completed an eligible course in Australia to live, work, and gain post-study experience.

The Replacement Stream and earlier Second Post-Study Work Stream were closed as of July 2024

Eligibility Essentials

 To be eligible for a Subclass 485 visa (both streams), you must:

  • Be under 35 (or under 50 if you hold HK/BNO passport or have a PhD/Master by research)

  • Hold an eligible student visa within the past 6 months

  • Have completed an eligible course registered under CRICOS

  • Meet English language and health requirements

  • Maintain adequate health insurance and AFP police clearance

  • Submit the correct stream application—cannot switch streams after lodgement

Application Locations & Work Rights

  • You may apply inside (onshore) or outside (offshore) Australia

  • All streams permit unlimited full-time work during the visa validity period

  • Family members (partner and dependent children) can be included as secondary applicants

Why Choose Subclass 485?

  • Gain up to 3 years of work experience in your chosen field

  • Build a foundation for permanent migration via skilled visas (e.g. 189, 190, 491)

  • Extend your stay temporarily for career and professional development

FAQs – Updated 485 Visa

1. What replaced the old streams from 1 July 2024?

The Graduate Work and Post-Study Work streams were renamed to Post-Vocational and Post-Higher Education Work respectively; other streams were closed

No, except if you hold a Hong Kong or British National (Overseas) passport, or have completed a Master by research or PhD, then the age cap is 50

Post‑Vocational: up to 18 months;
Post‑Higher Education: 2–3 years, depending on degree type .
Some nationalities may receive longer stays (e.g., 5 years for HK/BNO holders)

Only for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream to verify your qualification relates to a skilled occupation.

As a primary applicant, only one 485 visa is allowed due to the removal of replacement and second streams

No direct extensions like the second stream—these regional pathways were eliminated in mid-2024.

Ensure you have verifiable documentation—enrolment, completion, English tests, police checks, health insurance. Also choose the appropriate stream carefully—mistakes are difficult to correct once lodged.

AFP Police Check

AFP Application
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Purpose Type : Commonwealth / Employment Purpose
Purpose of Check : 33
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Need Support With Your 485 Visa Application?

At Abbasi Migration & Citizenship Services, we’ve supported hundreds of graduates in applying under the new 485 visa settings. Whether it’s choosing the right stream, meeting eligibility criteria, or preparing your paperwork, we’re here with expert assistance to secure your post-study rights.

Start Your Migration Journey Today

Ready to take the next step toward a new life in Australia? Book a personalized consultation with our expert migration advisors. Whether you’re applying for a student visa, skilled migration, or family sponsorship — we’ll guide you every step of the way.

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