Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485-Higher Education
A temporary visa for recent international graduates of Australian higher‑education (CRICOS‑registered) courses that lets you live, work and study in Australia for a limited time after finishing your studies.
Overview
This stream is for international students who have recently completed an eligible Australian higher‑education degree. It usually grants between 2 and 3 years of stay (duration depends on the qualification); Hong Kong and British National (Overseas) passport holders may be eligible for up to 5 years. You must apply while in Australia and meet health, character and English requirements.
Do You Have What It Takes?
- ✔ Aged 35 years or under when you apply (exceptions may apply)
- ✔ Be physically in Australia at the time of lodgement
- ✔ Currently hold an eligible visa when applying
- ✔ Have held an Australian Student visa in the last 6 months
- ✔ Have a recent award from a CRICOS registered higher education course
- ✔ Meet the required level of English and provide evidence
- ✔ Provide evidence of adequate health insurance for all applicants
- ✔ Have applied for an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check (or provide evidence)
- ✔ Meet health requirements (tests may be requested)
- ✔ Meet character requirements (police certificates may be required)
Why Choose This Path?
- Live in Australia temporarily after finishing your studies
- Work full time and part time without restriction while the visa is valid
- Study further while holding the visa
- Bring eligible family members as dependants on the same application
- Travel to and from Australia while the visa is valid
- Usually granted for 2–3 years (varies by qualification)
- Hong Kong & BNO passport holders may be granted up to 5 years
- Gain Australian work experience to strengthen skilled migration applications
- Maintain lawful status in Australia while you apply for other visas
- Access certain services and opportunities useful for career development
Your Roadmap to Success
- Check you meet basic eligibility criteria (age, visa status, recent study)
- Gather identity documents (passport, birth certificate, etc.)
- Collect evidence of your qualification from a CRICOS registered course
- Obtain and save proof of your English language level
- Take required health checks and arrange adequate health insurance
- Apply for or obtain AFP and any other required police checks
- Create/log in to ImmiAccount and start the online application form
- Upload documents and pay the application fee (current fee applies)
- Respond quickly if the Department requests more information or documents
- Wait for the decision and follow visa grant conditions once approved
Visa Duration
Initial Duration
Temporary
Visa Pathways
Pathway to Permanent Residence
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) does not directly lead to permanent residency. However, it provides a crucial pathway by allowing you to gain valuable Australian work experience, which can significantly improve your eligibility and points for various skilled or employer‑sponsored permanent visa options. This visa offers a temporary bridge to explore further migration pathways after completing your studies in Australia.
Processing times
Costs
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Main Applicant | AUD 2,300 | Base visa application fee for primary applicant |
| Partner/Spouse (18+ years) | AUD 1,150 | Additional applicant fee |
| Dependent Child (under 18) | AUD 580 | Per child under 18 years |
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