Graduating from an Australian institution opens doors not just to knowledge and networks—but also to an exciting opportunity to kickstart your career in Australia through the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).

Whether you’re dreaming of gaining real-world experience, exploring permanent residency pathways, or simply extending your Aussie adventure, this visa is your stepping stone. In this post, we’ll break down what the 485 visa offers, who it’s for, and how you can make the most of it in 2025.

What is the Subclass 485 Visa?

The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa is designed for international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution. It allows you to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily—providing valuable time to:

• Gain Australian work experience

• Improve your points for permanent residency

• Explore long-term visa options

• Enjoy life in Australia post-study

There are two main streams under this visa:

1. Graduate Work Stream – For students with qualifications in occupations on the skilled occupation list

2. Post-Study Work Stream – For students who completed a Bachelor’s degree or higher from a recognized Australian institution

Who is Eligible for the 485 Visa?

To apply for the 485 visa, you must:

• Be under 50 years of age

• Hold an eligible student visa

• Apply within 6 months of completing your course

• Meet English language requirements (e.g., IELTS, PTE)

• Have completed a CRICOS-registered course (at least 2 academic years)

• Hold adequate health insurance

• Undergo health checks and character assessment

Additional documents may include your completion letter, transcripts, and a skills assessment (for the Graduate Work Stream).

How Long Does the Visa Last?

Depending on your stream and qualification, the 485 visa is typically granted for:

• 18 months to 5 years

• Bachelor’s degree holders: 2–4 years

• Master’s degree holders: 3–5 years

• PhD graduates: Up to 5 years

• Graduate Work Stream: Up to 2 years

In 2023–2025, Australia has introduced temporary extensions for some degrees under the Post-Study Work Stream due to skill shortages.

Benefits of Holding a 485 Visa

This visa is more than a permit—it’s a career launchpad. Here’s what it offers:

• Full work rights: You can work full-time without restrictions

• Professional development: Join internships, graduate programs, and industry placements

• Regional advantages: Extra visa duration for those living in regional areas

• Pathway to PR: Boost your profile for skilled migration (Subclass 189, 190, 491)

485 visa holders often transition to employer-sponsored visas, skilled independent visas, or even permanent residency through regional migration.

Where Are the Opportunities?

In-demand sectors for recent graduates in 2025 include:

• Information Technology

• Healthcare and Nursing

• Engineering and Construction

• Education and Early Childhood

• Accounting and Finance

Choosing to live in regional areas (such as Adelaide, Perth, or Hobart) may give you access to additional benefits like extended stay and higher migration points.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying for the 485 visa can be straightforward—but many applicants lose valuable time (or even their visa chance) due to small errors. Watch out for:

• Late applications (must apply within 6 months of course completion)

• Incorrect English test formats

• Unacceptable health insurance coverage

• Not doing police checks in time

• Skipping skills assessment if required

How Oz Career Gurus Can Help

We provide expert guidance throughout your 485 visa journey. Our services include:

• Reviewing your eligibility and stream

• Lodging your 485 visa application

• Helping with health insurance and skill assessments

• Assisting in job search and migration planning

• Advising on pathways to PR after your 485

Our team has helped hundreds of graduates turn their Australian education into permanent migration success stories.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re an international student preparing to graduate—or have just finished—now is the time to explore your options with the 485 Temporary Graduate Visa.

Book a consultation with Oz Career Gurus today and start building your future in Australia!