Temporary Graduate Visa – Subclass 485
From Graduation to Career – Stay, Work & Build Your Future in Australia
Subclass 485
Turn Your Australian Education Into Real-World Opportunity
Graduated from an Australian institution? The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) gives you the freedom to stay back, gain hands-on work experience, and take your first steps toward long-term settlement in Australia. But to make the most of this golden window—you need to get everything right from the start.
At Gill Migration Services, we help students make a confident transition from education to employment. From choosing the right stream to submitting a rock-solid application, we’re with you every step of the way.
What Is the Subclass 485 Visa?
This visa allows eligible international graduates to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily after finishing their studies. It’s your bridge between classroom knowledge and career opportunities.
There are two main streams under this visa:
Graduate Work Stream
For students with a diploma or trade qualification related to an occupation in demand (relevant to the skilled occupation list).
What We Help You With
At Gill Immigration, we make sure your Subclass 485 visa application is clear, complete, and compliant:
- Eligibility check & stream assessment
- Gathering supporting documents
- Proof of qualifications and skills
- English proficiency & health insurance review
- Timely online application filing
- Bridging visa support (if applicable)
- Advice on skill assessment (for Graduate Work Stream)
Who Should Apply?
- International students who recently completed a course in Australia
- Applicants with qualifications aligned to skilled occupations (for GWS)
- Graduates aiming to gain work experience before applying for PR
- Students looking to transition into professional roles or regional work programs
Why Subclass 485 Matters
- Live and work in Australia for 2 to 8 years (depending on your qualification and region)
- Boost your points for permanent residency
- Gain local work experience and explore sponsorship options
- Bring your family along on the same visa
- Opportunity to settle long-term through PR pathways
Why Gill Migration?
- In-depth stream analysis to choose the right pathway
- Fast, efficient and error-free application process
- Local job-readiness and career counselling
- Tailored advice on PR steps after 485
- Because we do more than file your paperwork—we help you build your future.
- No-nonsense support from certified consultants who care
Key Features of the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream:
- Stay Duration: Up to 18 months.
- Cost: From AUD 1,730 for the main applicant. Additional charges apply for each family member included in the application.
- Processing Times: Varies; refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for current estimates.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for this visa stream, applicants must:
- Age Requirement: Be under 35 years of age at the time of application.
- Recent Qualification: Have completed a qualification relevant to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
- Australian Study Requirement: Have completed at least two academic years (92 weeks) of study in Australia in a CRICOS-registered course, completed within the last six months.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrate competent English language skills.
- Health Insurance: Maintain adequate health insurance for the duration of the stay.
- Character and Health Requirements: Meet the necessary health and character standards as specified by the Australian Government.
Application Process:
- Skill Assessment: Obtain a positive skills assessment in your nominated occupation from the relevant assessing authority.
- Gather Documentation: Prepare necessary documents, including proof of identity, educational qualifications, English proficiency, health insurance, and skills assessment.
- Online Application: Submit your application online through the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount portal.
- Biometrics and Health Checks: Complete any required biometric scans and health examinations.
- Await Decision: The Department will process your application and notify you of the outcome.
Conditions and Obligations:
- Work and Study Rights: This visa allows full work and study rights in Australia during its validity.
- No Further Stay Condition: Some visas may have a ‘No Further Stay’ condition; ensure you understand any conditions attached to your visa.
- Health Insurance Maintenance: You must maintain adequate health insurance while in Australia.
FAQ – Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Can I apply for 485 if my visa has expired?
You may still be eligible under certain conditions with a bridging visa. We’ll assess your case and guide you properly.
How long is the 485 visa valid?
It depends on your qualification—ranging from 18 months to 8 years for regional studies or specific degrees.
Is 485 a PR visa?
No, it’s a temporary visa. But it opens several doors to PR through work, employer sponsorship, or regional migration.
Do I need a skill assessment?
Yes, if you’re applying under the Graduate Work Stream. We’ll help arrange and submit it correctly.
Take the Next Step
Don’t let deadlines, missing paperwork or eligibility confusion cost you this opportunity. Let’s make sure your 485 visa application is done right—and on time.