If you have just finished your studies in Australia, the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) might be your next step. It allows you to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily after completing an eligible course.
This blog walks you through the process of applying for a 485 visa from a student visa, including eligibility, timing, and common pitfalls.
1. What Is the Subclass 485 Graduate Visa?
The 485 visa is designed for international students who have completed at least two years of study in Australia. It is a temporary visa that lets you stay for up to 2 to 5 years, depending on your qualification and whether you are eligible for extended stay pathways.
The visa has two main streams:
- Post-Study Work stream: for students who completed a higher education degree
- Graduate Work stream: for those with qualifications that relate to a skilled occupation
Most recent graduates apply under the Post-Study Work stream.
2. Are You Eligible?
To apply, you must meet the following key requirements:
- Hold or have held a student visa within the past 6 months
- Be under 50 years old
- Have completed a CRICOS-registered course that is at least 92 weeks long
- Meet the Australian study requirement
- Provide evidence of English language ability (e.g. IELTS, PTE)
- Hold adequate health insurance (OVHC, not OSHC)
- Meet health and character requirements
- Apply within 6 months of receiving your course completion letter
You must also ensure that your course completion has been officially recorded in PRISMS, which your education provider handles.
3. When Should You Apply?
Timing is critical. You can only apply once your course is completed and you have received a formal completion letter, not just your transcript.
You should:
- Confirm your course completion in writing from your education provider
- Ensure your student visa or bridging visa is still valid
- Apply within 6 months of your course completion date
You can lodge the application while on a Bridging Visa A if your student visa has already expired, but make sure you do not become unlawful in the meantime.
4. What Documents Do You Need?
Here are the essential documents for a 485 application:
- Passport
- Completion letter from your education provider
- Academic transcript
- English test results
- Overseas health insurance (OVHC)
- AFP police check
- Identity documents (e.g. birth certificate, national ID)
- Passport-sized photo
If applying under the Graduate Work stream, you will also need a skills assessment in a nominated occupation.
5. What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid?
Some students rush their application and miss key requirements. Here are common issues to watch out for:
- Using an OSHC policy instead of switching to OVHC
- Lodging before your completion letter is issued
- Not applying for an AFP police check early enough
- Applying outside the 6-month window
- Not checking if your name is correctly spelled across all documents
Each of these mistakes can delay your application or lead to refusal. Make sure you prepare thoroughly and review every document before submitting.
FAQs
Can I include my partner in my application?
Yes. Your partner and dependent children can be included in your application or can apply to join you later.
What happens if my student visa expires before I apply?
You may be able to apply for a Bridging Visa A while preparing your application. Do not become unlawful. Seek advice as soon as possible.
Can I apply for the 485 more than once?
In most cases, you can only be granted the 485 visa once as a primary applicant.
Checklist
✔️ Confirm course completion and obtain your letter
✔️ Arrange for OVHC
✔️ Book and take an English test if needed
✔️ Apply for an AFP police check
✔️ Lodge your application within 6 months
✔️ Review everything before submitting
Need Help With Your Graduate Visa Application?
At Aurelia Legal, we assist students transitioning to the 485 visa. We can help ensure your documents meet all requirements and guide you through each step to avoid delays or refusal.
📞 (03) 9125 8820
✉️ info@aurelialegal.com.au
Disclaimer: This blog is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Please seek advice tailored to your specific circumstances.