Explore the Temporary Graduate Visa (485) in Australia—work rights, eligibility, and how it serves as a pathway to permanent residency for international graduates.

Australia welcomes thousands of international graduates each year, but many face uncertainty after their studies end. The Temporary Graduate Visa 485 offers a valuable opportunity: it lets you stay, work, and build a future in Australia after graduation, and can be a stepping stone to permanent residency.

Understanding the Temporary Graduate Visa 485

The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is designed for international students who have completed at least 92 weeks of study in Australia. This visa allows graduates to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily, with durations ranging from 18 months to 5 years depending on qualifications and stream. The main streams are:

  • Post-Study Work Stream: For recent graduates with a bachelor’s degree or higher from a CRICOS-registered institution. Stay periods are generally:
    • 2 years for bachelor’s and master’s (coursework/extended)
    • 3 years for master’s (research) and PhD
  • Graduate Work Stream: For those with qualifications related to occupations on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), typically up to 18 months.
  • Post-Vocational Education Work Stream: For diploma or associate degree holders whose occupation is on the MLTSSL.

Recent changes (from July 2025) have reduced the maximum age to 35, increased English language requirements, and ended the two-year extension for select degrees

485 Visa Work Rights and Practical Benefits

One of the biggest advantages of the 485 visa is the ability to work without restriction. Holders can:

  • Work full-time in any sector and occupation
  • Gain valuable Australian work experience, which is often a key criterion for skilled migration pathways
  • Bring eligible family members as dependents, who also receive full work rights

These 485 visa work rights allow graduates to support themselves, gain industry experience, and improve their eligibility for permanent skilled visas.

485 Visa to PR: Pathway to Permanent Residency

For many, the 485 visa pathway to permanent residency is the ultimate goal. While the 485 itself is temporary, it provides a crucial bridge to skilled migration:

  • Skill Assessment: Time on the 485 visa can be used to gain relevant work experience and complete a skills assessment in your nominated occupation—essential for skilled visas like the Skilled Independent (subclass 189) or Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186).
  • Regional Opportunities: Graduates from regional institutions may be eligible for a longer stay, increasing chances to meet PR requirements.
  • Points Test: Australian work experience and qualifications add points to your skilled migration application, improving your chances for PR.
  • Employer Sponsorship: The 485 visa allows you to find an employer willing to sponsor you for a permanent or provisional skilled visa.

It’s important to plan early, as the 485 visa is only valid for a limited time and cannot be renewed. Use this period to build your profile for permanent residency.

Conclusion

The Temporary Graduate Visa 485 is more than just a post-study work visa Australia offers—it’s a Launchpad for skilled graduates aiming to build a future down under. By understanding the latest rules and making the most of your work rights, you can turn your Australian education into a permanent opportunity. Start planning your pathway to PR as soon as you graduate.