The Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 is one of the most sought-after visas for international students who have recently graduated in Australia. It allows graduates to live, study, and work in the country after completing their studies. If you are looking to gain practical work experience or extend your stay in Australia, this visa is an excellent option.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover:
✔ What is the Subclass 485 Visa?
✔ Streams of the Temporary Graduate Visa
✔ Eligibility requirements
✔ Document checklist
✔ How to apply step by step
✔ Processing time and costs
✔ Benefits of this visa

What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is a temporary visa for international students who have recently completed an Australian qualification. This visa allows you to:

• Stay in Australia temporarily after graduation

• Work full-time in any occupation

• Study further if you wish

• Bring family members with you

This visa is not a permanent residency visa, but it provides an opportunity to gain valuable work experience and may help you transition to permanent residency later.

Streams of Subclass 485 Visa

There are two main streams for the 485 visa:

1. Graduate Work Stream

• For international students who completed a qualification that relates to an occupation on the skilled occupation list

• Usually granted for 18 months (temporary changes may apply)

• Requires skills assessment

2. Post-Study Work Stream

• For students who completed a higher education degree in Australia (Bachelor, Master, or Doctorate)

• Can be granted for 2 to 4 years, depending on your qualification

• Does not require occupation to be on the skilled list

Who Can Apply for the Subclass 485 Visa?

To be eligible for this visa, you must:
✔ Be under 50 years of age
✔ Hold an eligible visa (such as student visa) at the time of application
✔ Have recently graduated from a CRICOS-registered course
✔ Meet Australian study requirement (at least 2 academic years of study in Australia)
✔ Have adequate health insurance
✔ Meet English language proficiency requirements
✔ Meet health and character requirements

Documents Required for Subclass 485 Visa

Here’s a checklist of documents you need to prepare:

• Valid passport

• Visa application form via ImmiAccount

• Australian qualification certificate

• Academic transcripts

• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic)

• Health insurance policy

• Police clearance certificate

• Biometrics (if requested)

How to Apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?

The application is online through the Department of Home Affairs. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Make sure you meet all the requirements and choose the correct visa stream.

Step 2: Gather Documents

Collect your identity documents, qualification certificates, English test results, and financial evidence.

Step 3: Create an ImmiAccount

Register on the official Home Affairs portal and start your application.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

Fill in your details carefully and upload all supporting documents.

Step 5: Pay the Visa Application Fee

The base application charge is AUD 1,895 for the main applicant. Additional charges apply for family members.

Step 6: Submit and Wait for Processing

After submission, you may be asked for health exams and biometrics.

Processing Time for Subclass 485 Visa

Processing times depend on the stream and application completeness. On average:

• Graduate Work Stream: 6–9 months

• Post-Study Work Stream: 7–10 months

Tip: Apply as early as possible, as delays can occur during peak times.

Cost of Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

• Base application fee: AUD 1,895

• Additional applicant (18 years or older): AUD 950

• Additional applicant (under 18 years): AUD 475
  Extra costs: Medical exams, biometrics, police checks.

Benefits of the 485 Visa

✔ Work full-time in any field in Australia
✔ Live and travel freely during your visa period
✔ Opportunity to gain Australian work experience
✔ Bring your partner and children with you
✔ Pathway to Permanent Residency via skilled visas or employer sponsorship

Also Read- working holiday visa 417

Common Reasons for Visa Refusal

• Submitting incomplete documents

• Not meeting the study requirements

• Failing to provide valid health insurance

• Applying after the deadline (must apply within 6 months of course completion)

Final Thoughts

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is a golden opportunity for international graduates to kickstart their careers in Australia. By meeting all eligibility criteria, preparing documents carefully, and applying within the allowed timeframe, you can make the most of this visa and plan your future migration pathway.

If you’re unsure about the process, consult a registered migration agent to ensure a smooth application.