Our registered migration agents can help you with a range of different visas.
Have you recently completed a qualifying course in Australia?
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) may give eligible international graduates the opportunity to remain in Australia temporarily after completing their studies, allowing them to work and, where permitted, continue studying.
Your Australian qualification can determine which 485 visa stream may be relevant to you:
Understanding the correct stream, eligibility requirements and application timeframe is an important step before applying.
[CHECK MY ELIGIBILITY]
Eligibility criteria apply. All visa applications are subject to assessment and approval by the Australian Government.
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is designed for eligible international students who have completed an eligible qualification in Australia.
It can provide graduates with an opportunity to stay in Australia temporarily after their studies and gain practical work experience.
Unlike employer-sponsored visas, the 485 visa generally does not require employer sponsorship. The 485 visa is not assessed under a points-based skilled migration system.
Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria specific to the 485 stream they choose.
The 485 visa is a temporary visa and does not provide an automatic pathway to permanent residency.
Your completed Australian qualification is an important factor when determining which stream you may be able to apply for.
This stream is intended for eligible graduates who have completed a higher education qualification in Australia, such as a:
The period you may remain in Australia depends on the applicable rules, your qualification and other circumstances.
Under arrangements associated with the Australia–India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), eligible Indian graduates may have different stay periods depending on their qualification.
Examples include:
Additional eligibility conditions and visa rules may apply.
This stream may apply to eligible graduates who have completed a relevant vocational qualification, such as an eligible:
The qualification and nominated occupation must satisfy the requirements applicable to this stream, including relevant skilled occupation and skills assessment requirements where applicable.
Eligible applicants may be able to remain in Australia for up to 18 months, subject to the applicable visa conditions.
Eligibility is based on several factors, and requirements can differ depending on the stream you are applying for.
Your eligibility may depend on meeting requirements such as:
✓ Your age
✓ Your Australian qualification
✓ Your course registration and CRICOS requirements
✓ Your Australian study history
✓ Your course completion date
✓ Your previous student visa history
✓ English language requirements
✓ Adequate health insurance
✓ Health requirements
✓ Character requirements
✓ Requirements specific to your selected 485 stream
“Eligibility is based on the overall requirements of the visa and your individual circumstances, rather than meeting a single criterion.”
Graduating is an exciting milestone, but your course completion date can also be important for your Temporary Graduate visa application.
For many applicants, the application must be lodged within the applicable timeframe after completing the course.
Your course must have been completed before you apply. The relevant completion date generally relates to when you satisfied the academic requirements for the qualification, rather than simply the date of your graduation ceremony or the date your degree certificate was issued.
Example
Course completion date: 15 September 2026
Application timeframe: Check the applicable 485 requirements and lodge within the permitted period.
Because visa rules and application deadlines can affect your eligibility, it is sensible to review your circumstances as soon as you complete your course.
[CHECK MY 485 ELIGIBILITY]
The rights available to you depend on your visa stream and the conditions attached to your visa.
Subject to those conditions, the Temporary Graduate visa may allow eligible graduates to:
Work in Australia
Gain professional experience and develop your career after completing your Australian studies.
Continue Studying
Undertake further study where permitted under your visa conditions.
Remain in Australia Temporarily
Continue your Australian journey for the period granted under your visa.
Travel
Travel in and out of Australia while your visa and travel facility remain valid.
Include Eligible Family Members
Eligible family members may be able to accompany you or join you, provided the relevant requirements are satisfied.
The Temporary Graduate visa can provide time to gain Australian work experience and develop your professional profile.
Your future visa options will depend on factors such as:
Depending on your circumstances, you may later consider options such as employer-sponsored or skilled migration pathways.
For example, some graduates may explore the Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482) or other skilled and regional visa options if they satisfy the relevant requirements.
A Possible Journey
Australian Study
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Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
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Australian Work Experience
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Career & Skills Development
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Explore Future Visa Options
The 485 visa itself does not guarantee employer sponsorship, permanent residency or another visa.
Every future visa pathway has separate eligibility requirements.
Your Studies May Be Complete — But Your Australian Career Journey Could Continue.
Completing your Australian qualification is only one part of planning your next step.
Understanding your 485 visa stream, eligibility criteria, application timeframe and future options can help you make informed decisions about your stay in Australia.
We can assist you with:
Determining which 485 visa stream aligns with your qualification
✓ Reviewing your eligibility
✓ Checking your course completion information
✓ Understanding your application timeframe
✓ Explaining relevant visa requirements
✓ Understanding work opportunities under the visa
✓ Exploring potential future visa pathways
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is a temporary Australian visa that may allow eligible international graduates to stay in Australia after completing a qualifying course. Depending on the applicable stream and visa conditions, it can provide an opportunity to gain Australian work experience and continue building your career after graduation.
How long can I stay in Australia on a 485 visa?
The length of your Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) stay depends on factors such as the visa stream, your Australian qualification, nationality and the requirements that apply to your application. Eligible applicants under the Post-Vocational Education Work stream may be granted a stay of up to 18 months, while the Post-Higher Education Work stream can offer different stay periods based on the qualification and applicable visa rules.
Do I need employer sponsorship to apply for a 485 visa?
No, employer sponsorship is generally not required for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). Instead, your application is assessed against the eligibility criteria for the relevant 485 visa stream. You must meet all applicable requirements before your visa can be granted.
Is the 485 visa based on a points system?
No. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) does not use a points-based assessment. Instead, applicants need to meet the specific eligibility requirements associated with the 485 stream they are applying under, along with any other applicable visa conditions..
Can I work in Australia while holding a 485 visa?
Yes. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) can allow eligible visa holders to work in Australia during their temporary stay. Your work rights will depend on the visa granted to you and the conditions attached to it.
Yes. You need to complete the eligible Australian qualification before submitting your Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) application. Your course completion date is important because it can determine when you become eligible to apply and the timeframe available for lodging your application. Always check the current visa requirements before applying.
Can I apply if I completed my course 30 days ago?
Potentially, provided you satisfy all applicable requirements and are still within the relevant application timeframe.
Your course, visa history, age, English, health insurance and other eligibility requirements should also be considered.
Does the 485 visa lead directly to permanent residency?
No. The Temporary Graduate visa is a temporary visa and does not automatically provide permanent residency.
After gaining relevant qualifications and experience, some graduates may explore other skilled, employer-sponsored or regional visa options if they meet the requirements.
No. You must successfully complete the relevant eligible Australian qualification before submitting your Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) application. Your course completion date is an important part of determining whether you can lodge the application.
Ready to Explore Your 485 Visa Options?
Your Australian Qualification Could Be the Beginning of Your Next Career Chapter.
If you have recently completed an eligible Australian qualification, understanding your Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) options can help you plan your next step with greater clarity.
From identifying the appropriate stream to reviewing your eligibility and understanding possible future pathways, professional guidance can help you navigate the process.