Post-Study Work Visa Australia (Subclass 485)
Graduating from an Australian university is one milestone; staying to build your career is another. The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows eligible international graduates to live, work, and gain professional experience in Australia for up to 4 years after completing their studies. It is the most direct bridge between your Australian qualification and a long-term future, including permanent residency.
Gemini Education & Migration's registered migration agents have helped hundreds of graduates navigate the 485 visa process. Here is everything you need to know for 2026.
What Is the Subclass 485 Visa?
The Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate Visa) is a temporary visa that allows recent graduates of Australian CRICOS-registered institutions to remain in Australia to work. It is not a work permit extension and must be lodged within 6 months of your student visa expiry.
Three Streams: Which One Is Right for You?
Stream | Who It's For | Duration |
|---|---|---|
Post-Higher Education Work Post-Vocational Education Work Second Post-Higher Education Work | Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD graduates with a degree-level qualification Graduates with a diploma, associate degree, or trade qualification aligned to MLTSSL occupations 485 holders who completed additional study in a regional Australian institution | 2–4 years depending on degree level 18 months Up to 2 additional years |
How Long Can You Stay? Duration by Qualification
Qualification Level | 485 Visa Duration |
|---|---|
Bachelor's Degree Master's by Coursework PhD / Research Doctorate VET Diploma / Associate Degree Regional Study Bonus | 2 years 2–3 years (3 years for Indian nationals from 2025) 4 years 18 months +1–2 years additional (some streams) |
Eligibility Requirements (2026 Updates)
Completed a CRICOS-registered course at bachelor's level or above (Post-Higher Ed stream) or a qualifying VET diploma (Post-VET stream)
Studied in Australia for at least 16 months total (or the full course duration if shorter)
Applied within 6 months of holding a valid student visa
Under 35 years of age at the time of application (under 50 for research doctorates and Hong Kong BNO passport holders, new age cap from 2024)
Minimum IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 5.5) effective 7 August 2025
Satisfy health and character requirements
Hold Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) for the visa duration
Fees: 485 Visa (2026)
Applicant Type | Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
Primary Applicant Adult Secondary Applicant Child Secondary Applicant | $4,910 (doubled from July 2025) $2,455 $1,230 |
Work Rights on the 485 Visa
The Subclass 485 visa grants full, unrestricted work rights in Australia. You can work for any employer, in any sector, for unlimited hours. Your partner will also receive work rights as a secondary applicant.
From 485 Visa to Permanent Residency
The 485 is strategically positioned as a stepping stone to PR. While holding the 485 visa, you can:
Build Australian work experience to score points for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Receive a state nomination for the Subclass 190 or 491 visa
Secure employer sponsorship for a Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) or Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
Gain 5–15 extra Skilled Migration points for regional study or STEM qualifications
Dates and Deadlines to Remember
Apply within 6 months of your student visa ceasing (not 6 months of graduation)
English test results must be no older than 12 months at the time of lodgement
Age must be assessed at the date of application lodgement, not at the date of grant
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a student visa while on a 485 visa?
From 2025, new restrictions apply to onshore students applying for subsequent student visas while holding a 485. Consult a registered migration agent before making any changes to your study plans.
What happens if I turn 35 during processing?
Your age is assessed at the date of lodgement, not the date of decision. As long as you were under 35 when you submitted your application, you remain eligible.
Does regional study give me extra visa time?
Yes. Graduates who studied in a regional Australian institution may be eligible for the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream, which can extend their stay. Speak with our agents about regional study options that suit your career goals.
Next step
Start your Australia journey with GEMINI Education