Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Your Path to Working and Living in Australia
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students who have recently graduated from an Australian educational institution to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily. This visa is designed to provide graduates with the opportunity to gain practical work experience in their field of study and enhance their career prospects. It is divided into different streams to cater to various qualification levels and circumstances, offering a flexible pathway for graduates to stay in Australia post-study.
Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
The Post-Vocational Education Work Stream is designed for international students who have recently graduated with an associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification from an Australian educational institution.
- Qualification: Must hold an associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Age Limit: Must be under 35 years of age (exceptions for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders up to 50 years).
- English Proficiency: Required test score of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
- Application: Must apply within six months of completing the course.
- Indian nationals can take advantage of the AI-ECTA agreement, which may provide specific extensions and work opportunities based on degree type and grade.
- Ensure all educational qualifications are recognized and accredited by the relevant Australian authorities to meet visa requirements.
- Duration: Stay in Australia for up to 18 months (5 years for Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport holders).
- Work: Full work rights during the visa period.
- Study: Engage in further studies, although this is primarily a work visa.
Post-Higher Education Work Stream
The Post-Higher Education Work Stream is intended for international students who have recently graduated with a higher education degree from an Australian institution.
- Qualification: Must have completed a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or doctoral degree.
- Age Limit: Must be under 35 years of age (exceptions for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders up to 50 years).
- English Proficiency: Required test score of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
- Application: Must apply within six months of completing the course.
- Indian graduates should check if their specific degree qualifications are covered under the AI-ECTA agreement for any additional benefits or extensions.
- Indian students may benefit from extended post-study work rights, allowing them to stay in Australia for up to 3 years after completing their studies at the bachelor’s or master’s level, and up to 4 years for doctoral graduates.
- Duration:
- Bachelor’s degree: up to 3 years.
- Master’s by coursework and extended: up to 3 years.
- Master’s by research and PhD: up to 4 years.
- For Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders: up to 5 years.
- Work: Full work rights during the visa period.
- Study: Engage in further studies, although this is primarily a work visa.

Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream
The Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream is available for graduates who have completed their studies in a regional area of Australia and wish to extend their stay.
Eligibility
- Qualification: Must have completed a higher education degree in a regional area and previously held a Post-Higher Education Work Stream visa.
- Regional Study: Must have lived, studied, and worked in a regional area.
- Application: Must apply while holding a valid Post-Higher Education Work Stream visa.
Special Information for Indian Citizens
- Indian nationals who studied in regional Australia may benefit from additional incentives and support programs aimed at encouraging regional settlement.
- Ensure compliance with regional study and living requirements to qualify for this stream.
What You Can Do
- Duration: Additional stay of up to 1-2 years depending on the degree and regional area.
- Work: Full work rights during the visa period.
- Study: Engage in further studies, although this is primarily a work visa.
How We Can Help You in This Process
Our team is dedicated to assisting you throughout the entire process of obtaining a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). Here’s how we can help:
- Consultation and Assessment: We provide a comprehensive consultation to assess your eligibility and guide you on the best pathway for your visa application.
- Documentation Assistance: We assist in gathering, preparing, and reviewing all necessary documents to ensure they meet the requirements.
- Application Submission: We help in completing and submitting the visa application accurately and efficiently.
- Liaison with Authorities: We communicate with the Department of Home Affairs and other relevant authorities on your behalf to track the progress of your application.
- Follow-up and Support: We provide continuous support and updates throughout the visa processing period, addressing any queries or issues that may arise.
- Post-Visa Services: Once the visa is granted, we offer guidance on settling in Australia, including information on living arrangements, employment opportunities, and other essential services.