Understanding the 485 Graduate Visa in Australia: Your Complete Guide to Post-Study Opportunities

Finishing your studies in Australia is a huge achievement — but what comes next? For many international graduates, staying in Australia to gain work experience or plan their next step is a dream worth pursuing. That’s where the 485 Graduate Visa comes in.

This visa allows eligible international students to remain in Australia temporarily after completing their studies, giving them the opportunity to work, travel, or even prepare for permanent residency. But how exactly does it work, and which stream do you qualify for? Let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.

The Two Streams of the Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The 485 Graduate Visa has two main streams, and the one you choose depends on the type of qualification you’ve earned.

If you’ve completed a higher education degree from a CRICOS-registered institution, then you’ll likely fall under the Post-Study Work Stream. This stream is ideal for graduates with a Bachelor’s degree or higher, allowing them to gain practical experience in Australia after graduation.

On the other hand, if your qualification isn’t a higher education degree but is directly related to an occupation on Australia’s Medium to Long Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), you’ll apply under the Graduate Work Stream. This option is designed for graduates with skills and qualifications that Australia currently needs — think trades, technical roles, and skilled professions.

If you’re unsure which stream best suits your qualifications, it’s worth consulting a registered migration agent or an immigration law firm in Sydney for guidance. They can assess your individual case, clarify your eligibility, and make sure you’re applying under the correct stream.

Key Requirements for the Graduate Visa

To qualify for a Graduate Visa, you must meet certain conditions specific to your stream. However, there are also general eligibility criteria that apply to all applicants. You’ll need to be under 50 years old, hold an eligible visa at the time of application, and have completed at least two academic years of study (equivalent to 16 calendar months).

You’ll also need to demonstrate English language proficiency, usually through an IELTS or PTE test, and maintain adequate health insurance for the duration of your stay.

If that sounds like a lot to handle, don’t worry — it’s manageable with the right support. Many graduates find that consulting professionals who handle on-shore 485 visa for graduates simplifies the entire process. With expert help, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your application ticks every box.

What Counts as an Eligible Visa?

Your eligible visa is typically your student visa — as long as it doesn’t include a “no further stay” condition. If it does, there may still be hope. In some cases, you can apply to have that condition waived, especially if you meet the Graduate Visa requirements.

If your student visa has already expired, you might still be in the clear if you currently hold a Bridging Visa A or B, or another valid substantive visa. Each scenario can be quite different, so it’s best to get professional advice from an immigration law firm that specialises in post-study visa pathways.

When Can You Apply for the Graduate Visa?

Timing is everything when it comes to visa applications. You can apply for a Graduate Visa within six months of completing your course — but not before. It’s important to note that “completion date” refers to when you finish your course requirements, not necessarily your graduation ceremony date.

If you apply while still holding your student visa, you’ll be granted a Bridging Visa once that student visa expires. This allows you to legally stay in Australia while your Graduate Visa application is being processed. If you plan to travel outside Australia during this period, make sure you secure the correct travel rights first — a migration agent can help you with this.

Processing Times and What to Expect

Graduate Visa processing times can vary. The Department of Home Affairs generally processes most applications within five months. However, if you’ve completed a postgraduate degree, you might get lucky — applications under the Post-Study Work Stream often move faster, sometimes being finalised within just two to three months.

It’s always a good idea to apply as soon as you’re eligible, gather all your documents early, and stay on top of any additional requests from the Department. Missing paperwork or unclear documentation is one of the biggest causes of delays.

How Long Can You Stay in Australia After Graduation?

The duration of your Graduate Visa depends entirely on which stream you apply for. If you’re going through the Graduate Work Stream, you’ll typically receive an 18-month visa.

However, for those in the Post-Study Work Stream, the stay period varies based on your qualification level:

• A Bachelor’s Degree or Bachelor’s (Honours) usually grants a 2-year stay.

• A Master’s by Coursework also provides 2 years, while a Master’s by Research extends that to 3 years.

• A Doctoral Degree allows you to stay for up to 4 years.

These timeframes give you a valuable window to build your career, explore permanent residency options, or even continue your studies.

If you’re planning to transition from student life to professional life in Australia, having proper legal and migration guidance can make all the difference. Firms that specialise in on-shore 485 visa for graduates can help ensure your paperwork and visa timing are spot on, so you can focus on your next big step.

Including Family Members in Your Application

Yes, your family can join you on your Graduate Visa — but there are a few rules. You can include your partner and any dependent children, but they must be in Australia both when you apply and when the visa is granted. Keep in mind that adding dependents may increase the overall visa cost.

Your dependents will also need to meet certain health and character requirements, and they’ll be granted the same visa duration as you. Having a family here can make your post-study experience even more fulfilling, as you settle into professional life together.

Why You Should Consider Professional Help

Applying for a 485 Graduate Visa can seem straightforward — until you realise how many small details can complicate the process. For instance, what happens if you completed multiple courses across different institutions? Or if some of your study credits came from overseas? These scenarios can impact your eligibility and processing times.

A registered migration agent can review your case, prepare your documents, and communicate directly with the Department of Home Affairs on your behalf. More importantly, they’ll ensure your application is error-free and tailored to your unique situation.

Working with an immigration law firm gives you that extra peace of mind. You’ll be guided by professionals who understand Australia’s migration laws inside and out, ensuring that your post-study visa journey goes as smoothly as possible.

Making the Most of Your Post-Study Life in Australia

The Graduate Visa is more than just a permit to stay — it’s your bridge to new possibilities. Whether you’re gaining professional experience, exploring permanent residency pathways, or simply enjoying life in Australia after years of study, this visa opens doors.

If you’re nearing graduation or have just completed your course, now’s the perfect time to start planning your next move. With the help of professionals who specialise in on-shore 485 visa for graduates, you can transition smoothly from student life to a rewarding career path in Australia.

Your time studying here has already been an incredible journey — and with the right guidance, your future in Australia could be even brighter.

Author Bio: Jeryl Damluan is a seasoned SEO Specialist and Outreach Specialist at Justice Network. She excels in building authority links and amplifying online presence for law firms and businesses through strategic content creation and digital marketing.