So, you’ve finished your studies in Australia – congratulations! But what now?
Many international students don’t want to pack up and leave as soon as they graduate. Thankfully, Australia’s Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) provides a valuable bridge between studying and working in Australia.
This visa allows recent graduates to live, work, and gain experience in Australia temporarily. For many, it’s also a stepping stone towards permanent residency.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the 485 visa in 2025 – from eligibility and application requirements to what life on this visa looks like. Let's dive into your post-study pathway in Australia.
What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) allows eligible international students who have completed at least two years of study in Australia to stay temporarily to live, study, and work.
This visa is not a permanent visa, but it offers a crucial post-study period for building work experience or preparing for a permanent visa application.
Streams of the 485 Visa (2025 Update)
As of 2025, the Temporary Graduate Visa includes three key streams:
1. Graduate Work Stream
- For students who completed a trade qualification or diploma related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Duration: Up to 18 months
- Applicants must nominate an occupation and have a suitable skills assessment.
2. Post-Study Work Stream
- For students who completed a higher education degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate) at an Australian institution.
- Does not require a nominated occupation or skills assessment.
- Duration:
- Bachelor’s: up to 2 years
- Master’s by coursework: up to 3 years
- Master’s by research and Doctorates: up to 4 years
3. Second Post-Study Work Stream
- For graduates who have lived in a regional area while holding their first 485 visa.
- Requires that their first qualification was obtained from a regional campus.
- Duration: Additional 1–2 years, depending on location.
Who Can Apply? 485 Visa Eligibility Criteria in 2025
You must meet the following eligibility requirements to apply for the 485 visa:
✅ Have held a Student Visa in the last 6 months
The 485 must be lodged within six months of your student visa ending.
✅ Age
You must be under 35 years old.
✅ Qualification
You must have completed an eligible qualification in Australia, in a CRICOS-registered course, that meets the Australian study requirement (2 academic years = at least 92 weeks of study).
✅ English Language
You must meet the English proficiency requirement (unless exempt):
- IELTS: Overall 6.0 (at least 5.0 in each band)
- TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge and OET are also accepted.
✅ Health & Character
You must undergo a health examination and provide a police clearance certificate.
✅ Adequate Health Insurance
You must show evidence of Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) valid for the visa duration.
✅ AFP Check
You must provide evidence that you have applied for an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check before lodging your visa.
✅ Specific to Streams:
- Graduate Work Stream: You must nominate an occupation on the MLTSSL and get a skills assessment.
- Post-Study Work Stream: You must have completed a higher education degree (not just a diploma or certificate).
Considering a move to Australia or need assistance with your visa application? Book a visa consultation with our experienced Registered Migration Agents. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the Migration Program and take your first step towards a promising future in Australia.
What Can You Do on the 485 Visa?
The 485 visa is incredibly flexible. Here’s what you can do:
🧑💼 Work Full-Time
There are no work restrictions, making it ideal for graduates to gain Australian work experience.
🏫 Study Further
You can take short courses or professional year programmes to improve your skills or eligibility for future visas.
🛫 Travel
The visa is multiple-entry. You can travel in and out of Australia freely while it's valid.
👨👩👧 Bring Family
You can include dependents in your application – spouse or children – and they will also enjoy full work and study rights.
🏠 Pathway to Permanent Residency
Work experience gained on the 485 visa can count towards points-based visas like:
- Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)
- Employer-Sponsored Visas (482/186)
Key 2025 Changes to Be Aware Of
Australia has recently implemented changes to the 485 visa as part of its migration system reform:
- The Graduate Work Stream duration was reduced to 18 months for most applicants.
- Post-study work rights duration now varies depending on qualification and location of study (regional incentives apply).
- Enhanced compliance checks on visa conditions.
- Certain occupational lists updated – always check the latest MLTSSL list.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Not applying within 6 months of course completion.
❌ Missing AFP check before application.
❌ Not maintaining health cover during application processing.
❌ Failing to meet English requirements or skills assessment timeline (Graduate Work Stream).
Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Graduate Visa
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is a powerful post-study opportunity that opens doors to your future in Australia. Whether your goal is work experience, further study, or permanent residency, the 485 gives you time, freedom, and options.
Staying updated on the 2025 regulations and choosing the right stream for your qualification is critical. With good planning and possibly some professional guidance, the 485 can be the launchpad for your longer-term journey in Australia.
Book a consultation with a Registered Migration Agent to ensure your 485 visa is handled correctly and strategically.
Remember:
This post is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional immigration advice. Given the uniqueness of every case, engaging with a registered migration agent is highly recommended for bespoke guidance and to navigate the specific details of your situation effectively. Book a visa consultation with a Registered Migration Agent
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