What are the three 485 streams?

Post-Vocational Education Work is for associate degree, diploma and trade qualifications relevant to an occupation on the skilled occupation list. Post-Higher Education Work is for degree-level qualifications and above. The Second Post-Higher Education Work stream is for graduates of regional institutions who already hold a first Temporary Graduate visa.

How long can I stay on a 485?

Up to 18 months in the Post-Vocational Education Work stream, usually between 2 and 3 years in Post-Higher Education Work depending on your qualification, and between 1 and 2 years in the Second stream. Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders may stay for 5 years.

What is the age limit?

You must generally be 35 or under when you apply. Some exceptions apply, so check your situation before you lodge.

Can I change streams after I apply?

No. It is not possible to change streams after you apply, so choosing the right one first matters.

Can I work and bring my family?

Yes. The 485 allows you to live, work and study in Australia, and you can bring your family with you.

What does the 485 cost?

From A$5,750 for the first two streams and from A$2,265 for the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream. Concessions apply in limited circumstances. Check the current figure before you lodge.

Australia · Subclass 485

Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)

Last updated 6 October 2026

Live, study and work in Australia after you finish your studies. How the 485 works, the three streams, who can apply and what it costs.

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At a glance

What is the Subclass 485 visa?

Type: Temporary visa
Sponsor: None needed
Streams: Post-Vocational, Post-Higher Education, Second Post-Higher Education
Age: 35 or under when you apply, with exceptions

The 485 stay depends on the stream and your qualification: up to 18 months in the Post-Vocational Education Work stream, usually 2 to 3 years in Post-Higher Education Work, and 1 to 2 years in the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream. Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders may stay for 5 years.

International students who have just finished a degree, diploma, trade qualification or associate degree in Australia
Graduates who want Australian work experience, and time to plan a skilled or employer-sponsored visa
Graduates of a regional institution who may qualify for a second visa

Avoid these

Where applications go wrong

Choosing the wrong stream. You cannot change streams after you apply.
Applying on a degree-level qualification in the vocational stream, or the reverse, without checking which stream your qualification fits.
Applying too late. You must have held a Student visa in the last 6 months, and you must still hold an eligible visa when you lodge.
Crossing the age limit. You must generally be 35 or under when you apply, with some exceptions.
Using a qualification that does not meet the study requirement, for example a course that is not CRICOS-registered.
Missing evidence. The required documents must be attached when you apply.

A mistake you only find after you lodge is the hardest to fix. Talk to us before you apply.

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Other routes to consider

Subclass 189Skilled IndependentThe permanent skilled route many graduates aim for once they have points and experience.Subclass 482Skills in DemandIf an employer offers you a role, a sponsored work visa may be another route.

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General information, not advice for your situation. Rules, lists and fees change. Book a consultation and we will confirm what applies to you.

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