The Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 is one of the most popular visas among international students who complete their studies in Australia. It gives graduates the opportunity to gain work experience, improve career prospects, and create pathways toward permanent residency. However, understanding the 485 visa requirements is crucial before applying, as even small mistakes or missing documents can result in delays or refusals.

This guide provides an in-depth breakdown of the requirements for the temporary graduate visa 485, including detailed information about 485 visa requirements PTE, 485 visa requirements IELTS, and the overall 485 visa English requirements. Whether you’re planning to apply for the Graduate Visa 485 or simply exploring your post-study options, this article will help you understand everything clearly and confidently.

What Is the Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485?

The Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 allows eligible international students to stay in Australia temporarily after completing a CRICOS-registered course. This visa is designed to give graduates real-world work experience in Australia and enhance their long-term career opportunities.

The visa has two main streams:

1. Post-Study Work Stream (PSWS)

For students who completed:

• Bachelor degree

• Master’s degree (coursework or research)

• Doctoral degree

Depending on your qualification, you can stay in Australia for:

• 2 years – Bachelor

• 3 years – Master’s

• 4 years – PhD

2. Graduate Work Stream

For graduates with:

• Trade qualifications

• Diplomas

• Certain eligible occupations on the skilled list

Visa validity: 18 months (may vary depending on government updates).

No matter which stream you apply for, you must meet specific 485 visa requirements to be eligible.

Key 485 Visa Requirements You Must Meet

Below are the main eligibility criteria for the graduate visa 485.

1. Age Requirement

You must be under 50 years old at the time of application.

2. Qualification Requirement

You must have completed a CRICOS-registered course that:

• Was at least 92 weeks of study

• Took at least 16 calendar months to complete

• Was completed within the last 6 months

For the Post-Study Work Stream, you must hold:

• A Bachelor degree, Master’s degree, or PhD.

For the Graduate Work Stream, the qualification must relate to an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List.

3. English Language Requirement (Important Keyword Section)

Meeting the 485 visa English requirements is one of the most essential steps for approval. You can prove English proficiency through various tests. Below are the specifics.

485 Visa Requirements PTE (Pearson Test of English)

PTE Academic is one of the most popular options for students. To meet the 485 visa requirements PTE, you need:

PTE Academic Score Requirements:

• Overall score: 50

• Minimum score in each band (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking): 36

These scores must be achieved within the last 3 years before your visa application.

485 Visa Requirements IELTS

If you’re planning to apply using IELTS, the 485 visa requirements IELTS are as follows:

IELTS Score Requirements:

• Overall score: 6.0

• Minimum score of 5.0 in each band

Both Academic and General Training IELTS tests are accepted.

Other Accepted English Tests for 485 Visa

You may also use:

• TOEFL iBT

• OET

• Cambridge C1 Advanced

These must also be taken within 3 years of your application.

4. Health Insurance Requirement

You must maintain adequate health insurance during the entire visa process.
You must show proof of:

• OSHC (if still on a student visa), OR

• OVHC (if applying on a bridging visa)

Your coverage must start on the day you apply.

5. Australian Federal Police (AFP) Check

You must provide evidence that you have applied for the AFP Police Check before lodging the application.

The code to select is usually: Code 33 – Immigration Purposes

6. Health and Character Requirements

You must complete:

• Health examinations (if required)

• Character checks

You must not have:

• Outstanding debts to the Australian Government

• A previously cancelled visa (under certain conditions)

7. Eligible Visa Status at the Time of Application

You must hold:

• A valid student visa, OR

• A Bridging Visa A, Bridging Visa B, or another substantive visa

You must apply within 6 months of completing your course.

Costs Associated With the Temporary Graduate Visa 485

Primary Applicant Fee

• AUD 2,100–2,300 (depending on updates)

Secondary Applicants

• Over 18 years: AUD 1,115

• Under 18 years: AUD 560

You may also need to cover:

• Medical examination fees

• Biometrics

• English test fees

• Police check charges

This visa is exempt from the subsequent temporary application charge.

Applying for a Longer Stay on Visa 485

The temporary graduate visa 485 cannot be extended directly, but you may be eligible for a second Post-Study Work Stream visa if you:

• Live in a regional area

• Work in a regional area

• Study further in a regional area

during your first 485 visa period.

485 Visa: Special Rules for Hong Kong & COVID-Affected Graduates

Hong Kong Passport Holders

May become eligible for PR after 5 years of living in Australia on temporary visas.

COVID-19 Impacted Graduates

Students who completed studies offshore may still be eligible under special provisions.

Why Understanding 485 Visa Requirements Is Important

The graduate visa 485 is often considered the foundation for future permanent residency pathways such as:

• Skilled Independent Visa (189)

• Skilled Nominated Visa (190)

• Skilled Work Regional Visa (491)

• Employer-sponsored visas

Missing any requirement (English test, AFP check, health insurance) can lead to delays or visa refusal. This is why applicants must fully understand the 485 visa requirements, especially the English test obligations such as 485 visa requirements PTE and 485 visa requirements IELTS.

Final Thoughts

The Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 is one of the most valuable opportunities for international students who want to build a career in Australia. By understanding the complete 485 visa requirements—including the 485 visa English requirements, PTE, and IELTS criteria—you can ensure a smooth application process and maximise your chances of approval.

If you want expert guidance, Adelaide Migration Agent 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.