Suppose you’ve recently finished your studies in Australia and don’t want to leave just yet. Then it’s excellent news. The Australian Government is allowing international students to stay in the country after completing their course and who want to work further.
The Temporary Graduate Visa, under Subclass 485, lets you stay longer, work full-time, gain experience, and even plan your move to permanent residency.
Let’s understand the Australian Visa and easily.
🌟 What is the Temporary Graduate Visa, under Subclass 485?
This visa permits international students who have completed a graduation course at an Australian University and wish to stay and work for a specified period.
There are two types of streams you can apply to:
| Stream | Who it for |
|---|---|
| Graduate Work Stream | If you have a trade qualification or diploma, and your job is on the skilled list |
| Post-Study Work Stream | If you’ve completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD from an Australian university |
✅ Who Can Apply?
To apply, you must:
- Be under 50 years old
- Have a valid student visa or have had one in the last 6 months
- Have finished a course that was at least 2 years long (CRICOS registered)
- Apply within 6 months after your course completes
- Show your English language proficiency, as evidenced by results from IELTS, PTE, or other relevant assessments.
- Have Australian health insurance
- Provide a police clearance (AFP check)
- Meet health and character requirements
If you plan to pursue a Graduate Work stream, your job must be listed on the Skilled Occupation List.
If you are applying for Post-Study Work, then you can apply freely.
📝 Step-by-Step Process
Here’s how to make it easy:
- Gather your documents
(completion letter, transcript, English test, police check, health insurance, etc.)
- Apply for your AFP police check
(needs to be from the Australian Federal Police)
- Your English test results need to be valid
Like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL
- Apply online through ImmiAccount
- Attach all your documents
- Wait for your visa
- You may receive a Bridging Visa, which allows you to stay during the processing time.
📑 What Documents Do I Need?
Here’s your checklist (super easy to follow):
- 📘 Passport
- 🎓 Completion letter from your school
- 🧾 Academic transcript
- 🧍 AFP police clearance
- 🗣 English test results
- 🏥 Health insurance certificate
- 🖼 Passport photo
- 📝 Resume (optional)
- 🩺 Health check (only if they ask)
💵 How Much Does the Visa Cost?
| Applicant Type | Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Main Applicant | $1,895 |
| Partner (18+) | $950 |
| Child (under 18) | $475 |
🕒 Processing Time: 5–9 months (depends on your stream and paperwork)
💰 Do I Need to Show Money?
Not officially, but you should have enough money to live in Australia.
As a guide:
- Just you: Around $5,000–$7,000
- Bringing family: Add $2,000–$4,000 per person
You can show:
- Bank statements
- Scholarships
- Letters from sponsors
🎁 Why This Visa Is Awesome
- Stay up to 5 years (depending on what you studied)
- Work full-time in any job
- Bring your partner and children
- Get real work experience in Australia
- Use this time to apply for permanent residency later
⚠️ A Few Things to Be Aware Of
- You can only apply for this once, unless you are eligible, you can avail of an extension or a second time visa
- It’s temporary, not permanent
- Your stay time depends on your degree and location
- You need to apply within 6 months of completing your course
🌐 Where to Apply & Get Help
- 🖥 Official Website:
- immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/tempo
- 🏢 Connect with a Trusted Immigration Consultancy Services: Visas Adviser
- ☎️ Contact Details: +91 8744852222; info@VisasAdviser.com
📂 Document Sample
| Document | Format | What to Include |
|---|---|---|
| Completion Letter | On university letterhead | |
| Transcript | With your subjects and grades | |
| English Test | Include full test results | |
| Health Insurance | Must show your full coverage | |
| AFP Police Check | Should be recent (last 12 months) |
❓ Most Commonly Asked Questions
Can my spouse or child stay with me on this visa?
Yes, either with your application or later on.
How long does this visa last?
Depending on your course and the institution where you studied, the visa will be valid for 18 months to 5 years.
Can I apply for PR while on this visa?
Yes! Many use this time to apply for a skilled visa or employer sponsorship.
Can I apply from outside Australia?
Usually, you need to be in Australia. Exceptions may apply.
💡 Expert Advice
- 📅 Apply early. Don’t wait till your student visa expires!
- 📁 Double-check every document before uploading
- 💼 Use this time to get good work experience—it helps when applying for PR
- 🌍 If you studied in a regional area, you may get extra time or benefits
- 📨 Check your emails regularly—Home Affairs may ask for more info
🌈 Final Thought
The 485 visa is an ideal visa for staying in Australia after completing your studies. This is one of the best pathways to advance your career, change your lifestyle, and secure a permanent settlement in Australia. So, let’s grab this opportunity for a better future. 🎉🇦🇺