The Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 is one of the most important opportunities for international students who complete their studies in Australia. This visa gives graduates the freedom to work, study further, gain experience, or explore long-term migration options. But before applying, it is crucial to understand the 485 visa requirements, especially documents, English tests, health insurance, AFP checks, and eligibility rules. A strong and accurate application not only speeds up processing but also boosts your chances of approval.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the temporary graduate visa 485, including 485 visa requirements PTE, 485 visa requirements IELTS, and general 485 visa English requirements. If you’re planning to apply for the graduate visa 485, this rewritten version will help you understand the process clearly and confidently.
Understanding the Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485
The temporary graduate visa subclass 485 allows recent graduates from CRICOS-approved courses to stay in Australia temporarily after finishing their degree. It is designed to help graduates gain real professional experience, build their careers, and transition into long-term visa options like Skilled Migration or Employer Sponsorship.
This visa is available under two streams:
1. Post-Study Work Stream
This stream is for students who completed:
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Bachelor degree
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Master’s degree (coursework or research)
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Doctoral degree
Your stay period depends on your qualification:
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Bachelor: Up to 2 years
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Master’s: Up to 3 years
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Doctorate (PhD): Up to 4 years
2. Graduate Work Stream
This stream applies to:
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Diploma holders
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Trade qualification holders
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Courses tied to occupations on the Skilled Occupation List
This visa usually grants up to 18 months (or longer, depending on updates).
The stream you apply for determines the length of stay, but all applicants must meet the core 485 visa requirements.
Complete 485 Visa Requirements (Updated)
Below are the essential eligibility criteria for all applicants.
1. Age Requirement
You must be younger than 50 years at the time of application.
2. Qualification Requirement
You must have:
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Completed a CRICOS-registered course
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Studied for at least 92 CRICOS weeks
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Completed the program within 16 months
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Finished your course within the past 6 months
For the Post-Study Work Stream, your qualification MUST be:
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Bachelor
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Master’s
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PhD
For the Graduate Work Stream, your qualification must be directly related to an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.
485 Visa English Requirements
Meeting the 485 visa English requirements is one of the most crucial parts. You can use PTE, IELTS, TOEFL, OET, or Cambridge Advanced.
The test must be taken within 3 years before the application.
485 Visa Requirements PTE
To meet the 485 visa requirements PTE, you need:
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Overall PTE score: 50
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Minimum score in each band: 36
(Speaking, Reading, Writing, Listening)
PTE Academic is widely accepted and very popular among graduates due to its fast results and flexible testing.
485 Visa Requirements IELTS
If you choose IELTS, the 485 visa IELTS requirements are:
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Overall score: 6.0
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Minimum score per band: 5.0
(Academic or General both accepted)
IELTS is a globally recognised test and remains one of the most commonly used options.
Other Accepted Tests
You may also use:
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TOEFL iBT
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OET
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Cambridge C1 Advanced
These alternatives must also meet the official 485 visa English requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.
3. Health Insurance Requirement
You must hold valid health insurance at the time you apply.
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If you are on a student visa → OSHC
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If you are on a bridging or substantive visa → OVHC
Insurance must cover ALL applicants listed in your application.
4. AFP Police Check Requirement
You must provide proof that you have applied for the AFP (Australian Federal Police) check before submitting the visa.
Select Code 33 – Immigration Purposes while applying.
5. Health & Character Requirements
You must:
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Undergo medical examinations if required
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Have no outstanding debts to the Australian Government
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Have a clean visa history (no major cancellations or refusals)
6. Visa Status Requirement
You must be holding one of the following:
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A current student visa
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Bridging Visa A
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Bridging Visa B
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Another valid substantive visa
And you MUST apply within 6 months of course completion.
485 Visa Fees (Updated)
Primary Applicant: AUD 2,100–2,300
Secondary Applicants:
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18 years and above → AUD 1,115
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Under 18 years → AUD 560
Additional costs may include:
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English test fee
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Police check
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Health exam
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Biometrics
The 485 visa is exempt from the Subsequent Temporary Application Charge.
Can You Extend the Temporary Graduate Visa 485?
The temporary graduate visa 485 cannot be directly extended.
However, you may be eligible for a second Post-Study Work Visa if you:
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Live in a regional area
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Study in a regional area
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Work in a regional area
This extension allows graduates to enjoy additional time in Australia in regional zones, which may also support future PR pathways like the 491 or 190 visa.
Special Rules for COVID-Affected Students & Hong Kong Graduates
For Hong Kong Passport Holders:
You may be eligible for permanent residency after 5 years of living in Australia.
For COVID-Affected Graduates:
If your studies were impacted, you may still be eligible even if you completed part of your course offshore.
Why Understanding the 485 Visa Requirements Is Important
The graduate visa 485 is the stepping stone toward:
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Australian work experience
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Skilled migration pathways
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Employer sponsorships
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Future permanent residency
However, failure to meet any 485 visa requirements—especially English scores, AFP checks, or qualification rules—can lead to delays or refusal. Understanding the correct process ensures a smooth application and quicker approval.
Final Words
The Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 is a powerful opportunity for international graduates looking to build a successful future in Australia. By understanding all the 485 visa requirements, including the 485 visa English requirements, PTE, and IELTS criteria, you can ensure a strong, accurate, and stress-free application.
If you want expert guidance, a migration agent in Perth is here to support you every step of the way. Their experienced team ensures your 485 Visa application is accurate, compliant, and stress-free—helping you move closer to your Australian dream with confidence