Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) in Australia – A Comprehensive Guide by Asquare Migration

Australia remains a top destination for international students seeking world-class education and a multicultural environment. But what happens after graduation? This is where the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) becomes crucial. Designed to help international students transition from education to employment, this visa offers a pathway to gain work experience and even permanent residency in Australia. At Asquare Migration, we specialize in guiding students through the intricacies of visa processes.

What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international students who have completed at least two years of study in Australia to live, study, and work in the country temporarily. It acts as a bridge between study and permanent residency, providing valuable time to gain work experience in your field.

There are three main streams under this visa:

  1. Graduate Work Stream
  2. Post-Study Work Stream
  3. Replacement Stream

Each stream serves a different purpose and has distinct eligibility criteria.

  1. Graduate Work Stream

Who is it for?

This stream is designed for international students who:

  • Have completed a qualification related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
  • Have studied for at least two academic years in Australia
  • Have a positive skills assessment in the nominated occupation

Duration:

Up to 18 months (extended to 24 months for applications lodged from December 2021 to mid-2023 due to COVID-19 concessions)

Key Requirements:

  • Hold a valid student visa within the last 6 months
  • Have a qualification closely related to an MLTSSL occupation
  • Meet Australian study requirements
  • Undertake a skills assessment in the nominated occupation
  • Meet English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
  • Apply for an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check
  1. Post-Study Work Stream

Who is it for?

This stream is for international students who have completed a bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree from an Australian university, regardless of the field of study.

Duration:

  • 2 years for Bachelor's and Master's by coursework
  • 3 years for Master's by research
  • 4 years for Doctoral degree holders

Important Note: From July 2023, graduates in select high-demand fields may be eligible for an additional 2 years under this stream.

Key Requirements:

  • First student visa must have been lodged on or after 5 November 2011
  • Degree from a CRICOS-registered Australian institution
  • Must have met the Australian Study Requirement
  • English language proficiency (same as above)
  • AFP check

General Eligibility Criteria for All Streams

  • Age: You must be under 50 years old
  • Visa History: Apply within 6 months of holding a valid student visa
  • Health and Character: Must meet the health and character requirements
  • Health Insurance: Hold adequate Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)
  • No outstanding debts to the Australian Government

Benefits of the Temporary Graduate Visa

  1. Work Rights: Full work rights during the visa period
  2. Stay in Australia: Time to build eligibility for permanent visas (Skilled Independent 189, State Sponsored 190, etc.)
  3. Bring Family: You can include dependent family members in your application
  4. Live Anywhere: No location restriction – live and work in any state or territory
  5. Gain Experience: Valuable local experience improves employment and PR prospects

Application Process – Step-by-Step Guide

At Asquare Migration, we simplify the application process for you. Here's a basic outline:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

  • Ensure your qualification meets the requirements for your chosen stream
  • Undertake a skills assessment (for Graduate Work Stream)
  • Prepare IELTS or equivalent test results

Step 2: Collect Required Documents

  • Passport and previous visa details
  • Academic transcripts and completion letter
  • Skills assessment (if applicable)
  • English language test results
  • AFP clearance
  • Health insurance documents
  • Relationship evidence (for dependents)

Step 3: Apply Online

  • Lodge your application through the Immi Account portal
  • Pay the required visa fee (starting from AUD 1,895 for primary applicants)

Step 4: Undergo Health Checks

  • Schedule and complete the required medical examination

Step 5: Wait for Decision

  • Processing time varies but generally ranges from 7 to 12 months

Why Choose Asquare Migration?

Navigating Australia's visa system can be complex and stressful. Asquare Migration is here to make it seamless.

Our Value Proposition:

  • Registered Migration Agents: MARA-accredited professionals with up-to-date immigration law knowledge
  • Tailored Advice: Customized strategies based on your background and goals
  • End-to-End Support: From document preparation to lodgment and post-lodgment updates
  • Transparent Communication: No hidden costs or false promises
  • High Success Rate: Strong track record with Subclass 485 applications

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many applicants are refused due to avoidable errors. Here's what to watch out for:

  1. Incorrect or incomplete documents
  2. Failure to meet Australian Study Requirements
  3. Delays in AFP clearance or health insurance
  4. Wrong choice of stream
  5. Ineligible qualifications
  6. Missed deadlines for application after visa expiry

Pro Tip: Always consult a migration expert before submitting your application.

Pathways After the 485 Visa

Once you are on a Subclass 485 visa, the next goal for many is permanent residency. Here are common pathways:

  • Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
  • Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
  • Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491)
  • Employer-Sponsored Visas (Subclass 482, 186)
  • Graduate Visa Extension (if eligible)

Gaining local work experience and state sponsorship points during your 485 visa duration significantly improves your chances for these PR pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply for 485 if I studied a diploma?

Yes, under the Graduate Work Stream, if your diploma is linked to an occupation on the MLTSSL.

Can I include my partner and children?

Yes, you can include eligible family members in your application or add them later as subsequent entrants.

What if I am outside Australia?

You can apply from outside Australia if you held a 485 visa during COVID-19 and are eligible for the Replacement stream.

Can I study on a 485 visa?

Yes, you can study while on this visa, but the primary intent is to gain work experience.

Final Thoughts

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is a golden opportunity for international students to transition from education to employment in Australia. Whether you're targeting PR or just want to gain work experience, this visa lays the foundation.

At Asquare Migration, we provide expert guidance to ensure your application is successful. Let us handle the paperwork, legalities, and strategy while you focus on your career.