Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) Timeline and Eligibility Guide

What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?

The Temporary Graduate visa allows eligible international graduates to remain in Australia temporarily after completing their studies.Depending on the stream granted, visa holders can generally:  • live in Australia temporarily;  • work;   • undertake further study;  • travel to and from Australia while the visa remains valid; and  • include eligible members of their family unit.The visa is intended to give recent graduates time to gain professional experience, continue their studies, or prepare for another eligible visa pathway. It does not have an automatic pathway to permanent residency.

There are different streams available under the 485 visa:

Post-Vocational Education Work stream:

The Post-Vocational Education Work stream is designed for graduates who have completed an eligible associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification connected to an occupation Australia needs.

A skills assessment is a key requirement for this stream.

Post-Higher Education Work stream:

The Post-Higher Education Work stream is for eligible graduates who have recently completed a degree-level qualification from an Australian education provider.Applicants do not generally need to nominate an occupation or obtain a skills assessment for this stream

Why your official course-completion date matters?The Department of Home Affairs generally requires applicants for the main Subclass 485 streams to have completed their eligible course within the six months immediately before applying.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What date starts the six-month period?

The period is generally calculated from the official date your education provider confirms that you completed all academic requirements. Course completion may occur before your qualification is formally conferred or presented at graduation. Obtain written confirmation from your education provider.

Can I lodge before receiving my completion letter?

You should not lodge based on an assumed completion date. Your course must have been officially completed, and you should have suitable evidence confirming the completion date and qualification.

Do I need a skills assessment?

Applicants for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream generally need to have applied for a skills assessment in their nominated occupation. A skills assessment is not generally required for the Post-Higher Education Work stream.

Can I work on a Subclass 485 visa?

The visa generally permits the holder to live, work, and study temporarily in Australia.

Can I apply directly for permanent residence from a Subclass 485 visa?

The Subclass 485 visa does not automatically lead to permanent residence. However, the period of stay may give eligible graduates time to gain skilled employment, complete a skills assessment, improve their points or become eligible for an employer-sponsored, state-nominated or other skilled visa. Eligibility for another visa must be assessed separately.

How SCA Connect Can Help SCA Connect can guide you through your Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) application from course completion to lodgement. We can help you identify the correct visa stream, review your eligibility, check your documents, plan your timeline, and avoid common application mistakes.Our team provides personalised support based on your qualification, visa history, and future migration goals.

Book a consultation with one of experienced Registered Migration Agents today.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute immigration advice. For more detailed and case-specific information or advice, please get in touch with SCA Connect.