Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa

The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa is designed to allow international students who have recently graduated from an Australian educational institution to stay temporarily in Australia to gain work experience or improve their English language skills.

The Subclass 485 visa offers two streams, ie, Graduate Work Stream and Post-Study Work Stream.

Graduate Work Stream:

For graduates with skills and qualifications closely related to occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL). This stream allows them to work in Australia for up to 18 months.

Post Study Work Stream:

For recent graduates with higher education degrees from Australian institutions. The duration of this visa stream varies depending on the level of the degree obtained in Australia, up to a maximum of four years.

Eligibility Criteria:

To be eligible for the Subclass 485 visa, applicants must have completed an eligible qualification from an Australian educational institution within the last six months. They must also meet health and character requirements and hold adequate health insurance for the duration of their stay.

Work Rights:

Holders of the Subclass 485 visa are permitted to work full-time in Australia during the validity of their visa. The duration of work rights varies depending on the stream under which the visa is granted.

Study Rights:

The Subclass 485 visa does not provide additional study rights. However, visa holders are permitted to undertake further study on a separate student visa if they wish to continue their education in Australia.

Application Process:

Applicants for the Subclass 485 visa can apply online through the Department of Home Affairs website. They need to provide evidence of their qualification, proof of English language proficiency (if required), health insurance, and other supporting documents

Pathway to Permanent Residency:

The Subclass 485 visa does not directly lead to permanent residency. However, it can provide graduates with valuable work experience in Australia, which may enhance their eligibility for permanent residency through other skilled migration pathways.

Dependents:

Visa holders may include eligible family members, such as spouses and dependent children, in their visa application. Dependents are permitted to work and study in Australia.

Overall, the Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa offers international students the opportunity to gain practical work experience in Australia after completing their studies, enhancing their skills and employability prospects.