Temporary Graduate Visa Australia: A Complete Guide
- Emmi Boland
- Sep 20, 2025
- 4 min read
Australia has long been one of the most popular destinations for international students seeking world-class education and vibrant career opportunities. Many graduates, after completing their studies, want to extend their stay to gain valuable work experience and explore potential pathways to permanent residency. This is where the Temporary Graduate Visa Australia (Subclass 485) becomes highly relevant.
If you’ve recently graduated in Australia or are planning your academic journey, understanding this visa is crucial. In this guide, we’ll explain the key requirements, benefits, streams, and application process in simple terms.
What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
The Temporary Graduate Visa allows international students who have completed their studies in Australia to stay and work for a temporary period. This provides an opportunity to gain work experience, improve employability, and, in many cases, lay the foundation for permanent residency.
Streams of the Temporary Graduate Visa
The visa has two main streams, each designed for different groups of graduates:
1. Graduate Work Stream
Intended for international students with skills and qualifications that are relevant to occupations on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
Valid for up to 18 months (some nationalities may get a longer period).
Suitable for those who completed at least 2 years of study in Australia in courses that lead to jobs in demand.
2. Post-Study Work Stream
Available to international students who completed a higher education degree (Bachelor, Master, or PhD) from an Australian institution.
Duration varies:
Bachelor’s degree holders: up to 2 years
Master’s degree holders: 2–3 years
PhD holders: up to 4 years
Offers more flexibility since it does not require a nominated occupation.
Key Benefits of the Temporary Graduate Visa
Work Rights – You can work full-time in Australia for the duration of the visa.
Stay Longer – Gives you more time to explore permanent residency pathways.
Gain Local Experience – Australian work experience is highly valued by employers.
Include Family Members – You can include eligible family members in your application.
Flexibility – You can work, study further, or simply enjoy living in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa, you must meet certain conditions:
Age: Under 50 years.
Study Requirement: Completed at least 2 years of study in Australia in a CRICOS-registered course.
English Proficiency: Provide evidence of English skills (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic).
Visa Status: Must hold an eligible student visa at the time of application.
Health and Character Checks: Meet Australian health and character standards.
Skills Assessment (Graduate Work Stream): Applicants in this stream must provide a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
Documents You’ll Need
When preparing your application, keep these documents ready:
Passport and identity documents.
Academic transcripts and completion letter from your university.
English language test results.
Overseas health insurance cover.
Skills assessment (for Graduate Work Stream).
Police clearance certificates.
Proof of relationship for family members (if applying together).
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Check Your Eligibility – Make sure you meet the requirements for your chosen stream.
Prepare Documents – Collect all necessary paperwork in advance.
Create an ImmiAccount – Applications are submitted online through the Department of Home Affairs portal.
Submit the Application – Fill in the form, attach documents, and pay the visa fee.
Wait for Processing – The Department will review your application and may request additional documents.
Receive Visa Outcome – If granted, you’ll receive details about the visa duration and conditions.
Processing Time and Costs
Graduate Work Stream: Around 6–9 months (may vary depending on demand).
Post-Study Work Stream: Around 8–12 months.
Visa Application Fee: Starts at approximately AUD 1,895 (subject to updates).
Pathways After the Temporary Graduate Visa
One of the biggest advantages of this visa is that it creates a bridge toward long-term opportunities. Possible pathways include:
General Skilled Migration Visas (Subclass 189, 190, or 491).
Employer-Sponsored Visas if you secure a job with an Australian employer.
Permanent Residency once you meet the eligibility criteria.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying without meeting the two-year study requirement.
Not securing valid health insurance at the time of application.
Missing the deadline – you must apply within 6 months of completing your studies.
Providing incomplete documents, which can delay or lead to refusal.
How Education Consultant Melbourne Can Help
Applying for the Temporary Graduate Visa Australia can feel overwhelming, especially with its strict requirements and deadlines. This is where a trusted education consultant Melbourne can make the process smoother. Consultants can:
Assess your eligibility for the right visa stream.
Help you prepare documents accurately.
Guide you through skills assessments and health checks.
Provide advice on future pathways toward permanent residency.
With professional guidance, you can avoid costly mistakes and increase your chances of a successful application.
Final Thoughts
The Temporary Graduate Visa Australia is one of the most valuable options for international students who want to extend their stay after graduation. It allows you to gain work experience, enjoy more time in the country, and prepare for a permanent future in Australia.
By carefully planning your application, gathering documents on time, and seeking expert advice, you can make the most of this opportunity and take a big step forward in your career and life in Australia.
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