The subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa lets you live and work full-time in Australia after you finish an eligible Australian qualification. It is the main post-study work route — and several rules tightened for 2026, so check the detail before you count on it.
Who can apply
- Age: generally 35 or under when you lodge. Graduates of a research master's or PhD, and Hong Kong / BNO passport holders, can apply up to 49.
- Recent qualification: you must have completed an eligible Australian qualification within the last 6 months.
- English: a valid English test result (IELTS, PTE and others), taken no more than 12 months before you apply.
Streams and how long the visa lasts
First-time applicants apply under the Post-Higher Education Work stream (degree holders) or the Post-Vocational Education Work stream (eligible diploma and trade qualifications). Visa lengths were shortened for 2026: roughly 2 years for a bachelor's degree, 3 years for a research master's or PhD, and about 18 months for vocational qualifications.
Cost
From July 2026 the application fee rose to AUD $5,750 (up from $4,600). Budget for Overseas Visitor Health Cover and, if relevant, dependants' fees on top.
Why it matters
The 485 is the bridge between graduation and a skilled or employer-sponsored visa — time on it is when you build the local work experience and points a permanent-residence application often needs. Apply within the 6-month window after your course ends, or you lose eligibility.
Rules and fees are set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and change — confirm current requirements on the Home Affairs website before applying.