Who can apply for the 485 visa
The subclass 485 visa is for international students who have recently completed an eligible Australian qualification. You must usually apply within a set time after course completion, meet English and age requirements, and hold or have held a student visa in the recent period.
Streams of the Temporary Graduate visa
The visa has streams for higher education graduates and vocational graduates, with different stay periods. Graduates who studied and lived in regional areas such as Adelaide, Perth, Hobart or Gold Coast may be able to access extra time in some circumstances.
Using the 485 visa wisely
The 485 visa gives you full work rights. Use this time to gain skilled work in your nominated field, improve your English score, complete skills assessments and build points. Many graduates move from a 485 visa to a 482, 190, 491 or 186 visa.
How graduates commonly move from 485 to PR
| Step | Action | Possible visa outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gain skilled work in your field | Points for experience |
| 2 | Get a positive skills assessment | Eligibility for skilled visas |
| 3 | Lodge an EOI and seek nomination | Subclass 190 or 491 |
| 4 | Secure employer sponsorship | Subclass 482 or 186 |
- Apply for the 485 visa within the time allowed after completing your course.
- Check your English score meets the current 485 requirement before lodging.
- Arrange health insurance that meets the visa condition for your stay.
- Focus on skilled employment that relates to your nominated occupation.
- Plan your PR pathway with Myra Visa early, not in the final months.
Need personalised advice? Speak with Myra Visa, led by Australian Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2519116) and New Zealand Licensed Immigration Adviser (IAA 202507335) Deep Mehta. Book an appointment or browse more visa guides.