Temporary Graduate Visa
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is crucial for international students seeking to transition from study to skilled work experience in Australia. It allows graduates of eligible Australian qualifications to live, work, and study temporarily after completing their course. This visa has two streams: the Graduate Work Stream (for certain trades qualifications) and the more common Post-Study Work Stream (for Bachelor’s degrees or higher). This visa is highly valuable as it provides the time needed to gain professional experience or accumulate points for a subsequent skilled migration application.
Full Work Rights
Grants unrestricted work rights, allowing you to gain professional experience in your field of study.Stay Duration
The length of the visa varies, typically 2 to 4 years, based on your qualification level and the location where you studied (regional study often grants longer periods).Skilled Migration Bridge
Provides the critical time needed to undergo a Skills Assessment and obtain the necessary work experience required for subsequent skilled visas (e.g., Subclass 189/190).Study in Australia
The course completed must be registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) and meet the Australian Study Requirement.
What is the Australian Study Requirement?
You must have completed one or more eligible degrees, diplomas, or trade qualifications in Australia, taught in English, and lasting at least 92 weeks of registered study.
When must I apply for the 485 visa?
You must apply within six months of completing your course (the date your educational provider officially notified you of your completion).
Do I need a skills assessment for the Post-Study Work Stream?
No. The Post-Study Work Stream (for Bachelor's or higher) does not require a skills assessment at the time of application, but you will need one later for PR. The Graduate Work Stream requires a skills assessment.
Is my English test result accepted?
You must provide evidence of meeting the English language requirement (e.g., IELTS, PTE). The test must have been taken within three years of the visa application lodgement date.