If you’ve recently completed your studies in Australia—or you’re about to graduate—the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) could be your ticket to staying longer, gaining valuable work experience, and setting the foundation for permanent residency. But timing, eligibility, and documentation are critical. Missing even a small requirement can cost you this valuable opportunity.
This guide walks you through key requirements, visa streams, stay durations, English proficiency rules, and other essentials to help you prepare a strong application.
Here’s what you need to know:
Timing Is Critical
- Apply within 6 months of completing your course
- Must have held a Student visa in the last 6 months
Visa Streams & Stay Duration
Choose the correct stream based on your qualification:
| Stream | Eligible Qualification | Stay Duration |
| Post-Vocational Education Work | Diplomas or trade qualifications | Up to 18 months |
| Post-Higher Education Work | Graduate Diploma Bachelor’s / Master’s (coursework/extended) | 2 years |
| Master’s by research / PhD | 3 years | |
| Hong Kong or BNO passport holders | – | Up to 5 years |
| Indian passport holders* | Bachelor (First Class Honours in STEM/ICT) | Up to 3 years |
| Doctorate (PhD) | Up to 4 years |
*Under the Australia–India Trade Agreement.
English Language Requirements
- Accepted tests: IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, OET, CELPIP, LanguageCert, MET, and other approved tests
- Minimum: IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 5.5), or equivalent PTE, TOEFL, OET.
- Test must be taken within 1 year before the application.
- Exempt if you hold a valid passport from the UK, USA, Canada, NZ, or Ireland
Other Key Criteria
- Age limit: 35 years or under (exceptions for PhD, Master’s by research, Hong Kong/BNO)
- You and dependents must meet health & character requirements
- AFP Police Check: Must be applied for at least one day before lodging your application
- Must hold and maintain OVHC health cover
Work Rights
- Full-time work rights during your stay
- Duration depends on your qualification & visa stream
Why Choose A2MS for Your Visa Application
At A2MS (Aussie Academics and Migration Services), we specialise in guiding graduates through every step:
- Selecting the right stream and duration
- Preparing and checking documents
- Managing timing to avoid costly mistakes
- Providing ongoing support until your visa is granted
Let us handle the complexities while you focus on your career.
Call: 0870 948 094
Email: info@a2ms.com.au
Book your consultation today and take the next step in your Australian career journey!
