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AUSTRALIAN GRADUATE VISA GUIDANCE

Your Next Chapter in
Australia Starts Here.

Have you recently completed your studies in Australia? Understand the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), explore the relevant stream and prepare for your next steps with guidance from Big Dream Education & Visa Services.

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UNDERSTANDING SUBCLASS 485

Make an informed decision about your post-study options.

The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is designed for eligible international students who have completed qualifying studies in Australia. Depending on the stream, it may allow eligible graduates to live, work and study in Australia temporarily.

The right pathway depends on your completed qualification, age, current visa status and other requirements. Reviewing these details early can help you understand what needs to be prepared for your application.

  • Understand which visa stream may suit your qualification.
  • Review key eligibility and document requirements.
  • Prepare questions before making your application.

Need help understanding your options? Share a few details and our team can help you identify what to explore next.

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✉admin@bigdreamvisa.com.au✆+61 476 241 532⌖Unit 2/3 Lawrence Ave, West Perth WA 6005, Australia

START WITH A CONVERSATION

Request an initial consultation

Tell us a little about your situation. We’ll review your enquiry and contact you about the next step.

Your information is used only to respond to this enquiry. Immigration assistance is provided by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2619304). Submitting this form does not create a client relationship and does not guarantee any visa outcome.

WHO IT MAY SUIT

Who may be able to explore subclass 485?

The right stream depends on the qualification you completed and whether you meet the applicable requirements.

01

Recent graduates

International students who have recently completed an eligible Australian qualification.

02

Degree holders

Graduates with an eligible degree from an Australian education provider may consider the Post-Higher Education Work stream.

03

Vocational graduates

Eligible diploma, associate degree or trade qualification holders may consider the Post-Vocational Education Work stream.

04

Regional graduates

Some holders of a previous graduate visa with eligible regional study history may qualify for a second stream.

Discuss your eligibility

VISA STREAMS

Which subclass 485 stream may be relevant to you?

  • Post-Higher Education Work stream: For eligible international graduates with a qualifying degree-level or higher qualification from an Australian institution.
  • Post-Vocational Education Work stream: For eligible graduates with an associate degree, diploma or trade qualification relevant to an occupation on the applicable skilled occupation list.
  • Second Post-Higher Education Work stream: For certain eligible holders of a previous graduate visa who studied and lived in a designated regional area.

Stream availability and requirements depend on your individual circumstances. You generally cannot change streams after applying.

IMPORTANT TO CHECK

Key requirements to review

  • Age: The general age limit is 35 or under when applying, although exceptions apply to some applicants.
  • Visa history: You must hold an eligible visa and generally have held a Student visa in the previous six months.
  • Eligible Australian study: Your qualification and study must meet the applicable course and study requirements.
  • English and documents: Evidence of English, health insurance, an Australian Federal Police check and other documents may be needed.
  • Application timing: Strict deadlines can apply, including the period after course completion.

Requirements and exceptions vary by stream and applicant. Check the current Department of Home Affairs rules before applying.

THE PREPARATION PROCESS

A clearer way to prepare

Understand the process and identify what needs attention before submitting an application.

1

Discuss your situation

Share your qualification, course completion date, current visa and future plans.

2

Review the requirements

Identify the relevant stream and review the current criteria that may apply.

3

Prepare your documents

Organise study evidence, English results, insurance and other required records.

4

Check timing

Review deadlines and make sure key dates are considered before you apply.

5

Prepare the application

Check that information and supporting evidence are complete and consistent.

6

Understand next steps

Know how to monitor progress and respond if further information is requested.

PLAN YOUR NEXT STEP

Not sure which graduate visa stream fits your situation?

Start with a conversation about your qualification, study history and current visa status. We can help you understand what needs to be checked before proceeding.

Make an Enquiry ↗

COMMON QUESTIONS

Subclass 485 visa FAQs

General answers to common questions about the Temporary Graduate visa.

What is the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)?

It is a temporary visa that may allow eligible international students to live, work and study in Australia after completing eligible studies.

Who can apply for a subclass 485 visa?

Applicants generally need an eligible visa history, a recent eligible Australian qualification, and to meet age, English, health insurance, character and stream-specific requirements. Exceptions and additional rules may apply.

What are the main subclass 485 streams?

The main streams are Post-Higher Education Work, Post-Vocational Education Work and Second Post-Higher Education Work for certain eligible regional graduates.

How long can I stay on a subclass 485 visa?

The stay period depends on the stream, qualification and personal circumstances. Check the current Department of Home Affairs information for your stream.

Do I need to apply soon after finishing my course?

Yes, strict timing requirements apply. Applicants generally must have completed the relevant course within the required period before applying. Check the official study requirement and stream criteria before relying on a deadline.

Can I work in Australia on a subclass 485 visa?

The visa allows eligible holders to work in Australia temporarily, subject to the visa grant and its conditions.

Can my family members be included?

Eligible family members may be able to be included or apply as subsequent entrants, depending on circumstances and applicable rules.

Does a subclass 485 visa guarantee permanent residency?

No. It is a temporary visa and does not guarantee permanent residence. Any future pathway depends on the separate requirements of another visa.

Do you guarantee visa approval?

No. Visa decisions are made by the Department of Home Affairs. Advice and preparation must be based on your individual circumstances and the rules in force.

Important information: Big Dream Education and Visa Services is a private education and migration advisory business, not a government body and not part of the Australian Government or the Department of Home Affairs. Immigration assistance is provided by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2619304). Visa information on this page is general only and is not a substitute for advice about your circumstances. Eligibility, age limits, English requirements, visa periods, fees and document requirements can change. Always check the current official information at the Department of Home Affairs subclass 485 page before applying. No visa outcome is guaranteed.