The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows recent international graduates from Australian educational institutions to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily after completing their studies. This visa provides an opportunity to gain practical work experience and improve skills in their field of qualification.

Key Features

• Post-Study Work Rights: Eligible graduates can stay in Australia for 18 months to 6 years, depending on their qualification and visa stream.
• Work Flexibility: Full work rights in any occupation, with no employer restrictions.
• Pathway to PR: Work experience gained on this visa may help qualify for skilled migration visas (e.g., Subclass 189, 190, or 491).

Visa Streams

Graduate Work Stream

• For graduates with skills in occupations listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
• Duration: Up to 18 months (or 24 months for Hong Kong passport holders).
• Requires a skills assessment in the nominated occupation.

Post-Study Work Stream

For graduates with a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree from an Australian institution.

• Duration:
• Bachelor’s/Master’s by coursework: 2 years
• Master’s by research: 3 years
• PhD: 4 years
• Extended stays (up to 6 years) for select regional graduates under the Second Post-Study Work Stream.

Eligibility Requirements

✔ Hold an eligible student visa within the last 6 months.
✔ Completed a CRICOS-registered course (minimum 2 years of study in Australia).
✔ Meet English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent).
✔ Obtain health insurance (OVHC) and meet health/character checks.