Last updated: October 2026
International students who complete eligible studies in Australia may be able to remain temporarily after graduation under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485).
The visa can provide time to gain Australian work experience, but applicants must understand which stream applies to their qualification and the current eligibility rules.
Main Subclass 485 Streams
Two important routes are the Post-Higher Education Work stream and the Post-Vocational Education Work stream.
The appropriate stream depends largely on the qualification completed and other visa requirements.
Post-Higher Education Work Stream
This stream is generally for recent international graduates with an eligible degree from an Australian institution.
Current standard stay periods include:
- Bachelor degree, including honours: 2 years
- Master’s by coursework or extended master’s: 2 years
- Master’s by research: 3 years
- Doctoral degree: 3 years
Different arrangements can apply to certain passport holders under international agreements.
Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
This stream is intended for eligible graduates with associate degrees, diplomas or trade qualifications relevant to an occupation on the applicable skilled occupation list.
Under current rules, the stay period is generally 18 months.
Age Requirement
Current rules generally require many subclass 485 applicants to be 35 years old or younger when applying, although exceptions can apply to certain categories and passport holders.
Always check the rule applying to your exact circumstances.
Do You Need to Be in Australia?
Current rules for relevant subclass 485 applications require the applicant to satisfy location and visa-history conditions.
Post-Vocational applicants, for example, generally need to be in Australia when they apply, hold an eligible visa and have held a Student visa within the previous six months.
English Requirement
Applicants generally need to provide evidence that they meet the required English level unless an exemption applies.
Do not assume that completing an Australian course automatically removes every English-test requirement.
Health Insurance and Character
Applicants may need evidence of adequate health insurance and evidence that they have applied for an Australian Federal Police check.
Can You Work on the 485 Visa?
Yes. The Temporary Graduate visa allows eligible holders to live, study and work in Australia temporarily.
However, the government does not find employment for you. Graduates must search for their own jobs.
Can the 485 Visa Lead to Permanent Residence?
The visa itself is temporary and does not guarantee permanent residence.
Some graduates later qualify for skilled migration, employer sponsorship or regional pathways if they meet the relevant criteria.
Second Post-Higher Education Work Visa
Some graduates who study, live and work in designated regional areas may qualify for a second Post-Higher Education Work visa, depending on the conditions.
How to Use Your Graduate Period Strategically
- Target jobs related to your qualification
- Research skilled occupation pathways early
- Build Australian professional references
- Check professional registration requirements
- Do not wait until your visa is close to expiry before exploring longer-term options
Official Sources
Final Thoughts
The subclass 485 visa can give eligible international graduates valuable time to work after study in Australia.
Choose your course with post-study eligibility in mind and verify the latest 2027 rules before applying.
Disclaimer: Australian visa requirements, fees and stay periods can change. This article is general information and does not guarantee visa approval or employment.
