✔ Reviewed September 2026 by a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518899). Official sources: Home Affairs: subclass 485.
Finishing your studies in Australia is a big milestone, and for many international graduates the next step is the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). It lets you stay, work and gain Australian experience after you complete your course. This guide from Study Mate Migration in Adelaide explains the streams, who is eligible, how long you can stay and what it costs in 2026.
General information only, current at the date of publishing. Visa rules and fees change often, so always check the official Department of Home Affairs website or get advice before you apply.
What is the subclass 485 visa?
The Temporary Graduate visa is a temporary visa for recent graduates of Australian institutions. It allows you to live, study and work in Australia, and you can include family members in your application.
The main streams
Post-Vocational Education Work stream
For graduates with an associate degree, diploma or trade qualification. Your qualification must relate to an occupation on the relevant skilled occupation list. You can usually stay for up to 18 months.
Post-Higher Education Work stream
For graduates with a bachelor degree or higher from an Australian institution. The stay is usually between 2 and 3 years, depending on your qualification.
Second Post-Higher Education Work stream
For eligible 485 holders who graduated from an institution in a regional area and lived in a regional area. It gives an extra 1 to 2 years, depending on the regional location. Adelaide counts as a regional area for migration purposes, which makes South Australia attractive for many graduates.
Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders may be able to stay for 5 years.
Basic eligibility in 2026
- Be aged 35 or under when you apply (exceptions apply)
- Hold an eligible visa and have held a Student visa in the last 6 months
- Have a recent qualification from a CRICOS-registered course that meets the Australian study requirement
- Meet the English language, health and character requirements
- Apply for the correct stream. You cannot change streams after you apply
How much does the 485 visa cost?
The base application charge for the Post-Vocational Education Work and Post-Higher Education Work streams is approx. AUD 5,700+ (varies). The Second Post-Higher Education Work stream is approx. AUD 2,200+ (varies). Additional charges apply for family members, and you should also budget for English tests, health checks and police certificates.
Timing tips
- Plan before your Student visa ends. You need to apply while you hold an eligible visa.
- Book your English test early. Results must be ready and valid when you lodge.
- Get your completion letter or academic transcript from your provider as soon as results are released.
- Think about your next step. Many graduates use the 485 years to gain skilled work experience for a points-tested PR visa or state nomination in South Australia.
Common mistakes
- Choosing the wrong stream (you can’t switch later)
- Letting your Student visa expire before you apply
- Missing documents such as English results or police certificates
- Not arranging health insurance that meets the visa condition
Talk to Study Mate Migration
Study Mate Migration (also known as StudyMate) is an Adelaide-based education and migration consultancy. Our Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518899) can check your eligibility, explain your options and prepare a complete application.
