Overview
The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa lets recent international graduates of Australian institutions live, work and study in Australia temporarily after course completion. It has two streams — Post-Vocational Education Work and Post-Higher Education Work. Most applicants must be 35 or under at time of application, with higher age limits for research Masters and PhD graduates and certain Hong Kong/BNO passport holders.
The 485 is the bridge between study and a longer-term visa. Recent changes tightened the age limit (35 for most, with research and HK/BNO exceptions), raised the English requirement to 6.5, shortened the English test validity to one year, and renamed the two streams. Apply within six months of finishing — and use the time to build the points or sponsorship for your next visa.
Who is eligible
- Hold an eligible recent qualification from an Australian institution
- Generally be 35 years or under at time of application (up to 50 for research Masters/PhD and eligible HK/BNO holders)
- Apply within 6 months of meeting your course requirements
- Have held an eligible student visa
- Meet the English requirement (minimum IELTS 6.5 or equivalent, test taken within 1 year)
- Hold adequate health insurance and meet health and character requirements
Costs
Fees change with annual indexation. See the official Visa Pricing Estimator for the current figure.
Processing times
See the official global visa processing times .
How to apply
- Confirm your stream. Post-Vocational Education Work (eligible trade/vocational qualifications) or Post-Higher Education Work (eligible degrees).
- Gather evidence. Australian Federal Police check, health insurance, English test results and skills assessment if required.
- Apply within 6 months. Lodge within 6 months of completing your course requirements while onshore.
- Plan your next step. Use the 485 period to gain experience and prepare for a skilled or employer-sponsored pathway.
Frequently asked questions
What is the age limit for the 485 visa?
Most applicants must be 35 or under at the time of application. Graduates of a Masters by research or PhD, and certain Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders, can be older — up to 50.
How long is the 485 visa valid?
It depends on the stream and qualification — roughly 18 months for vocational, around 2 years for Bachelor and coursework Masters, and up to 3 years for research Masters and PhD graduates. Indian nationals may have specific arrangements.
When do I have to apply?
Within 6 months of meeting the requirements of your eligible Australian study, and you generally must be in Australia.