Your Guide to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) in Australia

Australia has become a global education hub, attracting thousands of international students every year. With its world-class universities, diverse job market, and high quality of life, many graduates want to extend their stay and gain valuable work experience after completing their studies. The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is designed to help international students transition from studying to working in Australia.

If you’re wondering how this visa can benefit you and how OZ Study & Visa Centre can assist in the process, keep reading!

What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students who have recently completed their studies in Australia to live, work, and study temporarily. It serves as a pathway for graduates to gain hands-on experience in their field, enhancing their career prospects and potential pathways to permanent residency.

This visa has two main streams, depending on your qualification and career goals:

1. Post-Study Work Stream

This stream is for graduates who have completed a higher education degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD) from an Australian institution.

  • Duration:
    • Bachelor’s & Master’s by coursework: Up to 2 years
    • Master’s by research & PhD graduates: Up to 4 years
    • Graduates from designated regional areas may get an additional 1-2 years
  • Eligibility:
    • You must have completed your degree within the last 6 months
    • The degree must be CRICOS-registered
    • You must meet English language requirements
 

2. Graduate Work Stream

This stream is for graduates with skills and qualifications related to occupations listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.

  • Duration: Up to 18 months (may be extended in certain cases)
  • Eligibility:
    • Your qualification must be closely related to an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List
    • You must have completed your studies in the last 6 months
    • You need a skills assessment for the nominated occupation
 

New Changes & Extensions for Regional Graduates

If you studied in a regional area (e.g., Gold Coast, Adelaide, Darwin, Tasmania), you may be eligible for an additional 1-2 years under the Second Post-Study Work Stream.

Who Can Apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa?

To apply for the Subclass 485 Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

Recent Graduate: You must apply within 6 months of completing your degree.
Valid Australian Student Visa: You should have held a valid student visa in the last 6 months.
Age Limit: You must be aged 35 years or under when you apply.
English Proficiency: You must meet the IELTS (6.0 overall, no band lower than 5.0) or equivalent test score requirements.
Health & Character Requirements: You must undergo a medical check-up and provide police clearance certificates.

Why Should You Apply for a Subclass 485 Visa?

This visa is a stepping stone to your career and future in Australia. Here’s how it benefits you:

1. Gain Valuable Work Experience

The 485 visa allows you to work full-time in any industry, giving you the practical experience you need to build a career in Australia.

2. Increase Your Chances of PR (Permanent Residency)

If you gain work experience in an occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List, you can apply for employer sponsorship or skilled migration pathways.

3. Travel & Live Freely in Australia

With this visa, you can live, work, and travel anywhere in Australia while planning your next career move.

4. Bring Family Members

Your partner and dependent children can be included in your visa application, allowing them to live and work in Australia too.

How OZ Study & Visa Centre Can Help You

Applying for a Temporary Graduate Visa can be a complex process, and missing key details may lead to rejection. At OZ Study & Visa Centre, we specialize in student visa extensions, graduate visas, and skilled migration pathways.

Here’s how we can assist you:

🔹 Personalized Consultation: We assess your eligibility and visa options based on your education and career goals.
🔹 Application Assistance: We handle all paperwork and documentation to ensure a smooth visa application process.
🔹 Skill Assessment Guidance: If your occupation is on the Skilled Occupation List, we help you with the skills assessment process.
🔹 Visa Extensions & PR Pathways: We advise on regional visas, employer sponsorship, and pathways to permanent residency.
🔹 Ongoing Support: From finding jobs to housing and legal advice, we help you transition smoothly into the workforce.

🚀 Don’t let visa complexities hold you back! Contact us today and let our experts guide you toward securing your future in Australia.

📞 Call us at: +61 420 783 653
📧 Email us at: contact@osvc.com.au
🌐 Visit our website: www.osvc.com.au

 

Final Thoughts

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is a fantastic opportunity for international students to gain work experience and explore permanent residency pathways in Australia. With frequent policy updates, it’s crucial to stay informed and seek expert assistance for a successful application.

At OZ Study & Visa Centre, we are committed to making your Australian dream a reality. Let us help you take the next step towards your career and future in Australia!

 

📌 Note: Visa rules and policies are subject to change. Always check the official Department of Home Affairs website for the latest updates or consult a registered migration agent.