PR & Visa Pathways

485 Graduate Visa — What It Is and How to Actually Get It

Your 485 visa is the bridge between being a student and building a life here. Here's everything you need — eligibility, timing, documents, and mistakes to avoid.

Published 2025-02-20 · Updated 2026-02-14 · 10 min read

Your student visa is ending — now what? The 485 Graduate Visa is what keeps you in the country after graduation. Think of it as your runway: time to get work experience, improve your English score, and set yourself up for PR. Here's everything you need to know, explained simply.

Two Main Streams

Graduate Work Stream

Duration: 18 months

Requirements:

  • Completed a qualification related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
  • Skills assessment for that occupation
  • Applied within 6 months of course completion

Post-Study Work Stream

Duration: Varies by qualification

  • Bachelor's degree: 2 years
  • Master's degree: 3 years
  • Doctoral degree: 4 years

Requirements:

  • First student visa granted on or after 5 November 2011
  • Completed a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD from an Australian institution
  • Applied within 6 months of course completion

Regional Bonus Time

If you studied at a regional campus AND live in regional Australia, you may be eligible for:

  • Extra 1-2 years on your 485 visa
  • Second 485 visa (in some cases)

Regional areas include everywhere except Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane metro areas.

General Requirements

Both streams require:

  • At least 2 years of study in Australia (92 weeks)
  • Studies completed in English
  • Competent English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
  • Australian study requirement met
  • Health insurance
  • Meet health and character requirements

Application Process

Before Applying

  1. Check your student visa expiry date
  2. Ensure you'll complete your course before applying
  3. Book English test if needed
  4. Get health insurance (OSHC or approved alternative)
  5. Arrange police clearances if required

Documents Needed

  • Passport
  • Evidence of Australian study (completion letters, transcripts)
  • English test results
  • Health insurance certificate
  • Skills assessment (Graduate Work stream only)
  • Evidence of regional study/residence (if applicable)

Timing

  • Apply within 6 months of course completion
  • You can apply before your final results if you have a completion letter
  • Bridging visa A granted while processing

Processing Times

Processing times vary significantly:

  • Currently around 3-12 months
  • Check the Home Affairs website for current times

Cost

The base application cost is approximately $1,895 (subject to change). Additional costs may apply for dependents.

Tips for Success

Plan Ahead

  • Apply as early as possible within the 6-month window
  • Don't wait for final transcripts — completion letter is enough

Get Your Documents Ready

  • Official transcripts and completion letters
  • English test booked/completed
  • Skills assessment (if Graduate Work stream)

Consider Regional

  • Regional study/residence can extend your stay significantly
  • Opens up additional pathways

Note: This information is general in nature. Always check the official Home Affairs website or consult a migration agent for the most current requirements.