This visa enables multiple entries to Australia while providing unrestricted work rights, allowing graduates to develop professional experience in their fields of study. While direct visa extensions generally aren't available, graduates may qualify for different subclass 485 streams or transition to skilled work visas. For certain nationalities, the 485 visa serves as a stepping stone toward permanent residency after meeting residency requirements.
1 Visa Streams and Eligibility
The 485 visa operates through multiple streams accommodating different circumstances and qualifications. Core requirements across all streams include being under 50 years of age, nominating a single stream (changes after submission aren't permitted), maintaining adequate health insurance, meeting Department of Home Affairs health and character requirements, signing Australia's Values Statement, and ensuring no outstanding debts to the Australian Government.
Graduate Work Stream: Designed for graduates with qualifications aligned with Australia's skilled occupation list. Visa costs start from AUD $1,895, with duration typically 18 months (extended to 5 years for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders). This stream suits graduates with skills matching immediate workforce needs.
Post-Study Work Stream: For graduates with degrees from Australian universities, offering 2-4 year durations depending on qualification levels (up to 5 years for specific passport holders). Graduates with particular degrees may qualify for additional 2-year extensions (one-time only). This stream provides greater flexibility without occupation list restrictions, enabling broader employment opportunities while gaining Australian work experience.
Second Post-Study Work Stream: Targets holders of first Temporary Graduate visas who obtained degrees from regional Australian institutions. Duration ranges 1-4 years based on original visa's regional study and residence location. Visa costs start from AUD $745. This stream recognizes regional study contributions and encourages continued regional residence.
Replacement Stream: Offers compensation for current and former Temporary Graduate visa holders who lost time due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Duration typically ranges 18 months to 6 years, matching remaining time on original visas. This stream enables recovery of opportunities disrupted by pandemic-related limitations.
2 Application Process and Documentation
Preparation Phase: Ensure valid passport possession before application. If obtaining new passports, complete this process prior to visa lodgement. Review current visa conditions, schedule required health examinations, and arrange skills assessments if applicable.
Required Documentation: Applications require identification records, academic transcripts and credentials, English language proficiency certifications, skills assessment documents (if applicable), health insurance coverage papers, character documentation, and records for all family members including partners and dependents. Accuracy in all provided information proves essential for successful processing.
Online Application: All 485 visa applications must be submitted through online channels via ImmiAccount. Following submission, authorities send acknowledgment notifications confirming document receipt. Applicants must monitor application status closely throughout processing periods, respond promptly to requests for additional information or health examinations, maintain lawful immigration status, and immediately notify authorities of any circumstance or information changes.
3 Processing and Outcomes
Processing Times: Duration varies based on stream, application completeness, and individual circumstances. The official visa processing time guide tool provides general estimates, though specific timeframes cannot be guaranteed for individual applications.
Application Outcomes: Decisions occur regardless of applicant location (within or outside Australia, except immigration clearance). Family members applying as subsequent entrants receive decisions regardless of location. All communications regarding decisions are provided in writing.
Approval Notification: Successful applicants receive unique visa grant numbers, visa start dates, and detailed conditions. Rejected applications include refusal reasons and information about review rights. Application fees are non-refundable upon rejection.
4 Visa Conditions and Future Pathways
Rights and Privileges: Visa holders enjoy unrestricted work rights throughout validity periods, freedom to live and study anywhere in Australia, ability to travel internationally with multiple entries, and capacity to include eligible family members. Maintaining adequate health insurance meeting Department requirements remains mandatory throughout stays.
Bridging Visas: As visa expiration approaches, holders may qualify for bridging visas maintaining legal status while awaiting decisions on new visa applications or appeals. Understanding specific bridging visa conditions and restrictions proves essential.
Future Planning: Graduates planning extended Australian stays should research and apply for appropriate visas before 485 expiration. Options may include skilled work visas, employer-sponsored pathways, or permanent residency applications. Professional migration advice helps identify optimal pathways aligned with individual circumstances and career objectives, maximizing prospects for continued Australian residence and potential permanent settlement.
Your Success Partner
AI Global provides comprehensive support for Temporary Graduate visa applicants throughout the application and planning process. From assessing stream eligibility and preparing documentation through to application lodgement and future pathway planning, our experienced team ensures you receive expert guidance maximizing your post-graduation opportunities in Australia.
Contact us today to explore your options for the Temporary Graduate visa subclass 485 and begin planning your Australian career development journey after completing your studies.