Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485): Complete Guide for International Students in Australia (2026)
Introduction
Australia remains one of the world’s top destinations for international students, offering high-quality education and excellent career opportunities. After completing an eligible qualification in Australia, many graduates want to stay, gain professional experience, and build their careers. The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), is designed to help eligible international graduates achieve this goal.
This visa allows recent graduates to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily while gaining valuable Australian work experience. Whether you have completed a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, PhD, or eligible vocational qualification, understanding the Subclass 485 visa requirements is essential before applying.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), including eligibility, benefits, visa streams, required documents, application process, processing times, work rights, and frequently asked questions.
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What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is a temporary Australian visa for eligible international students who have recently completed an approved qualification from an Australian educational institution.
This visa provides graduates with the opportunity to:
• Stay in Australia after graduation
• Work full-time
• Gain Australian work experience
• Travel freely in and out of Australia while the visa is valid
• Include eligible family members in the application
Many graduates use this period to strengthen their professional experience before exploring future visa options that may suit their circumstances.
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Benefits of the 485 Visa
The Temporary Graduate Visa offers several advantages, including:
• Live legally in Australia after completing your studies
• Work full-time for Australian employers
• Gain valuable local work experience
• Improve career prospects
• Opportunity to build professional networks
• Travel internationally during visa validity
• Include spouse and dependent children (if eligible)
• Enhance future migration opportunities where applicable
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Types of Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
The visa includes different streams depending on your qualification and circumstances.
Post-Higher Education Work Stream
This stream is generally available to graduates who have completed an eligible higher education qualification such as:
• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree
• Doctoral Degree (PhD)
The duration depends on the qualification and current government policy.
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Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
This stream is designed for graduates who have completed eligible vocational education qualifications connected to occupations in demand.
Applicants must satisfy all eligibility requirements applicable to this stream.
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Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible if you:
• Recently completed an eligible Australian qualification
• Meet the Australian study requirement
• Hold or recently held an eligible student visa
• Meet English language requirements
• Hold adequate health insurance
• Meet health and character requirements
• Apply within the required timeframe after completing your studies
Eligibility requirements can change, so applicants should always review the latest official guidance before submitting an application.
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Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), applicants generally need to satisfy several requirements.
Education
You must complete an eligible qualification from a CRICOS-registered Australian education provider.
English Language
Applicants usually need to demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted English language test unless exempt.
Health Insurance
Applicants must maintain adequate health insurance during their stay in Australia.
Character Requirements
Police clearance certificates may be required.
Health Examination
Medical examinations may be requested depending on your circumstances.
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Required Documents
Although individual cases differ, applicants commonly prepare:
• Passport
• Australian qualification certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Completion letter
• English language test results
• Health insurance documents
• Identity documents
• Police clearance (if required)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Relationship documents (if including family members)
Providing complete documentation helps reduce unnecessary delays.
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How to Apply for the 485 Visa
The application process generally includes the following steps:
Step 1
Confirm your eligibility.
Step 2
Gather all required supporting documents.
Step 3
Complete the online visa application.
Step 4
Upload supporting documents.
Step 5
Pay the applicable visa application fee.
Step 6
Complete health examinations or provide biometrics if requested.
Step 7
Wait for the Department of Home Affairs to process your application.
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Can You Work on a 485 Visa?
Yes.
One of the biggest advantages of the Temporary Graduate Visa is the ability to work in Australia.
Visa holders generally enjoy unrestricted work rights while their visa remains valid, allowing them to gain professional experience in industries such as:
• Information Technology
• Engineering
• Healthcare
• Construction
• Hospitality
• Finance
• Accounting
• Education
• Marketing
• Business Administration
Australian work experience can significantly strengthen future employment opportunities.
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Processing Time
Processing times vary depending on several factors, including:
• Application completeness
• Number of applications received
• Individual circumstances
• Additional information requested
Submitting accurate documents can help avoid unnecessary processing delays.
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Common Reasons for Delays
Many applications take longer because applicants:
• Upload incomplete documents
• Submit incorrect information
• Miss required evidence
• Delay responding to requests
• Fail health or character requirements
Carefully reviewing your application before submission is highly recommended.
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Tips for a Successful Application
To improve your application experience:
• Apply as early as possible
• Keep all documents organized
• Double-check your information
• Maintain valid health insurance
• Ensure your passport remains valid
• Meet English language requirements
• Respond quickly to official requests
• quently Asked Questions
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Can I work full-time on a 485 Visa?
Yes. Eligible Temporary Graduate Visa holders generally have full work rights during the validity of their visa.
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Can my spouse be included?
Eligible family members may be included depending on your circumstances.
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Can I travel outside Australia?
Yes. The visa generally allows multiple travel while it remains valid.

Can I study while holding a 485 Visa?
Yes. Visa holders may undertake further study if they wish.
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Does the 485 Visa lead directly to permanent residency?
The Temporary Graduate Visa itself is a temporary visa. Whether someone later becomes eligible for another visa depends on their individual circumstances and the requirements of any future visa they apply for.
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Final Thoughts
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) offers international graduates an excellent opportunity to remain in Australia, gain valuable professional experience, and develop their careers after completing eligible studies.
Understanding the eligibility requirements, preparing accurate documentation, and lodging a complete application can help make the process smoother. Staying informed about current immigration requirements is also important, as visa rules and policies may change over time.
If you’re planning to apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), preparing early and ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria can help you move confidently toward the next stage of your Australian journey.
Need Professional Assistance?
Applying for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) can be complex, especially if your circumstances are unique. Our experienced migration professionals can help you understand your eligibility, prepare your documentation, and guide you through the application process.
Contact Us
Phone: +91 92811 22042
Email: rmaassist@orbitmigrationadvisory.com
Website: www.orbitmigrationadvisory.com
Office Address: Unit 4/34, Graham Street, Broadmeadows, VIC 3047, Australia.
Book a Free Consultation Today!

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