Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)

The streams

You cannot change streams after you apply.

Who can apply?

For the Post-Higher Education Work stream you must:

• be 35 or under when you apply (exceptions apply)
• be in Australia when you apply
• hold an eligible visa and have held a Student visa in the last 6 months
• have a recent degree in a CRICOS-registered course
• provide evidence of adequate health insurance for all applicants
• show you have applied for an Australian Federal Police check
• provide evidence of the required level of English

For the Post-Vocational Education Work stream you also need a qualification relevant to an occupation on the skilled occupation list and must have applied for a skills assessment in your nominated occupation.

How long can you stay?

For the Post-Higher Education Work stream:

Indian nationals have longer stays under the Australia India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement, for example 3 years for a bachelor degree with first-class honours in STEM and 4 years for a doctorate. Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders may stay up to 5 years. The visa cannot be extended.

Family and work

You can include family members in your application if they are in Australia, and you can add children until the decision. You must find your own employment, and you can travel in and out of Australia while the visa is valid.

Cost

From A$5,750 for the first two streams and A$2,265 for the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream. A lower charge applies from 1 July 2026 to eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens. See fees.

What changed in 2026?

Since 2 October 2026, new Student visa rules also affect onshore applications and family members. See student visa changes.