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Subclass 485

Graduate Visa

Just finished your Australian degree? Stay on and work with the subclass 485 visa - lodged through our MARA-partnered agents.

Graduate Visa

Overview

The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) lets international graduates stay in Australia and gain professional work experience after completing an eligible qualification at an Australian institution. It's a stepping stone to skilled migration or employer sponsorship. The Afrovo team helps you prepare; our MARA-partnered registered migration agents lodge your application.

Eligibility Requirements

Completed an eligible qualification at an Australian institution
Applied within 6 months of completing your course
Hold or have held a student visa while studying
English: IELTS 6.5 overall, minimum 5.5 each band (raised from 6.0 in March 2024)
Meet health and character requirements
Have not previously held a primary subclass 485 visa (limited exceptions for the second regional 485)

Our Process

1

Eligibility Check

We confirm your qualification and institution meet the subclass 485 requirements.

2

Skills Assessment (if required)

Post-Vocational Education Work stream applicants need a positive skills assessment. We coordinate this with the relevant assessing body.

3

Application Preparation

We gather all required documents including your final transcript and English test results.

4

Application Lodgement

Through our MARA-partnered agents, your 485 application is lodged before the 6-month deadline from graduation.

5

Post-Visa Strategy

We help you maximise your 485 stay to build the Australian experience needed for PR pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I stay on a graduate visa?

Since 1 July 2024, the Post-Higher Education Work stream gives 2 years for a bachelor's or master's by coursework, and 3 years for a master's by research or doctorate. Graduates who live and work in regional Australia can apply for a second 485 for an extra 1 to 2 years.

How much does the subclass 485 visa cost?

The main application charge is AUD $4,600 for the primary applicant (from 1 March 2026), plus AUD $2,300 for an adult partner and AUD $1,160 per dependent child. Budget separately for health insurance, police clearances, and any medical examinations.

Can I work full-time on a graduate visa?

Yes. There are no work limitations on the subclass 485 visa. You can work for any employer in any role.

Can I apply for PR from a graduate visa?

Yes. The 485 is a powerful stepping stone. You can use the time to gain Australian work experience, boost your points test score, and apply for skilled migration or find an employer sponsor.

Quick Overview

Timeline
3-6 months processing, visa lasts 18 months to 3 years depending on stream and qualification level (the extended post-study rights were wound back from 1 July 2024)
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What's Included

  • Post-Higher Education & Post-Vocational Education Work stream guidance
  • Timeline management (6-month deadline)
  • Skills assessment coordination
  • Complete application lodgement
  • PR pathway planning after 485
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