Visa 485 – Temporary Graduate Visa is a transitional visa stream designed for international students who have completed their studies in Australia. This visa allows graduates to stay back in Australia for 18 months to 6 years (depending on occupation list and location), providing an opportunity to gain work experience, improve English proficiency, and prepare for permanent residency.
It is one of the few visa types that offers a clear post-graduation path for international students—with flexible durations and broad occupational coverage—making it an essential step in building a stable future in Australia.
Let’s explore the core conditions you need to meet to apply for this visa successfully.
1. Course Requirements: What must you complete in Australia?
The course must be registered under the CRICOS system and be at least at the Diploma level. It must have a minimum duration of 92 weeks (approximately 16 months) and be taught primarily in English.
2. Applicant Requirements: What must you prove at the time of application?
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following:
- IELTS overall score of at least 6.0 (no band lower than 5.0), or
- PTE Academic score of at least 50 in each component.
In addition, you must:
- Hold valid OVHC (Overseas Student Health Cover)
- Complete AFP Police Check
- Meet health and character requirements
- Provide proof of identity and citizenship, with verified documentation
3. Visa 485 streams: Choose the right one for your study background
There are two main streams under the 485 visa, tailored for different graduate profiles:
- Graduate Work Stream: For graduates with a diploma/certificate from a course related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Valid for 18–24 months (longer with eligible extensions).
- Post-Study Work Stream: For graduates with a Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD degree from an Australian institution. Stay duration ranges from 2 to 4 years, depending on your level of qualification:
- Bachelor’s: 2 years
- Master’s: 3 years
- PhD: 4 years
4. Special updates for 2023–2025: Tech and Healthcare graduates benefit
From 2023 to 2025, students who graduate in technology, engineering, or healthcare may be eligible for an additional 2 years on top of their 485 visa. This helps students gain extended work experience and enhance their prospects for skilled migration.
5. Why Visa 485 matters – and how to prepare effectively
Visa 485 is one of the few visas that allows you to stay in Australia after graduating, even if you haven’t yet secured employer sponsorship. It’s a critical step to explore career options, improve English fluency, and gain time to meet PR conditions.
Understanding the policy and planning early are key to success.
6. Bluewise – Your trusted guide through the 485 visa journey
With deep expertise in visa policies and strategic career planning, Bluewise supports international graduates throughout the 485 process. We provide tailored advice, document preparation, and legal support to help you transition smoothly from study to post-graduate work.
If you want to secure your future and move closer to permanent residency in Australia, talk to Bluewise today and start your 485 journey with confidence.
Contact Info:
- Bluewise Group | Bluewise Business Advisory | Bluewise Migration Advisory
- Head Office: Liberty Plaza – Level 1, 28/256 Chapel Rd Bankstown NSW
- HCM Branch: 339/10A Le Van Sy, Ward 13, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
- Hotline: AU 0450 895 589 – VN 1800 599 932
- Email: bw@bluewisegroup.com.au