Finishing your degree in Australia is very big – congratulations! But once the cap is thrown into the air, you must be wondering: what’s next? This is the place where migration agent Cairns is also known as the temporary graduate visa. 

Let this guide run through everything clearly – to look out for types of streams, eligibility rules, application stages and what.

What is really less than class 485?

This picture: You have completed a 2+ year course in Australia, whether it is a graduation, master’s, or diploma. The subclass 485 visa allows you to stay here legally from 18 months to 4 years after graduation. You can work, travel, study small courses and include your family. This effectively bridges the gap between student life and your next large chapter-whether it is a full-time work or permanent residence.

The Two Main Visa Streams

1. Post‑Study Work Stream

This is for anyone who’s finished a bachelor’s or higher degree at an Australian university.

• No skills assessment needed

• Valid for 2–4 years, depending on degree:
  • Bachelor’s: 2 years

  • Master’s: 3 years

  • Doctorate: 4 years

• You have to apply for your first student visa on or after 5 November 2011

Ideal if you aim to strengthen your resume, detect work opportunities or prepare for efficient stay.

2. Graduate Work Stream

This suits graduates with a CRICOS‑registered diploma, trade qualification, or associate degree, aligned with occupations on the MLTSSL.

• You’ll need a positive skills assessment

• Generally valid for 18 to 24 months

• Must complete the Australian study requirement

• Depends on your job being listed on Australia’s strategic skills list

This path works well if your qualification fits trade, technician, or specific specialist roles.

485 Visa Requirements (What You Need)

No matter the stream, here’s what you’ll need:

1. Under 50 years old

2. Completed CRICOS‑registered course (92+ weeks study)

3. Apply within 6 months of finishing your course

4. English test score (IELTS 6.0+, Minimum 5.0 per band – or equivalent PTE/toefl)

5. Health insurance (Overseas Visitor Health Cover)

6. Health and character checks (medical exam & police certificate)

7. Haven’t held Subclass 485 before

8. Hold a valid visa when you apply (usually your student visa)

Step – by -STEP: How to apply

Step 1: Confirm Your Stream

Do you have a bachelor’s or higher? Go for the Post‑Study Work Stream. Have a diploma or trade qualification on the MLTSSL with skills assessment? That’s the Graduate Work Stream.

Step 2: Gather your documents 

Make sure you have:

• Passport

• Course perfection proof (transcript, letter, cricos code)
• English test results

• Health cover policy

• Police clearance

• Skills assessment (Graduate Work Stream)

Step 3: Apply Online via ImmiAccount

• Create an ImmiAccount

• Choose your stream, fill the form, upload your documents

• Pay visa fee (check current rates)

Step 4: Follow Up 

• You may need to visit a clinic for biometrics or health exams
• Upload any additional documents promptly

Step 5: Wait for the Decision

Processing times vary—Post‑Study Work Stream: about 8–12 months. Graduate Work Stream: about 6–8 months. You’ll get updates in your ImmiAccount. In the meantime, enjoy your freedom—work, travel, study, or relax!

Why It’s a Great Visa

• Unlimited work rights—no 40‑hour limits

• Travel in and out while it’s valid

• Family friendly—bring your partner and kids

• Build experience in your field

• Potential PR pathway—can strengthen 189, 190, or 491 visa applications

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying too late—miss the 6‑month post-graduation window

• Choosing the wrong stream—stream eligibility must match your qualification

• Incomplete English test scores or expired results

• Missing documents—like health cover, police check, or skills assessment

• Not tracking your application—check ImmiAccount regularly for updates

Turning It Into a Permanent Pathway

Enjoying life and work in Australia on Subclass 485 is great—but if you want to stay longer, it’s prime preparation for skilled migration. You can:

• Gain professional experience sought by employers

• Hit key requirements (like skilled employment)

• Improve your points for 189, 190, or 491 visa applications
  
  Later, consider employer sponsorship or state enrollment 

final thoughts 

Visa subclass 485 opens the doors to live, work, travel and develop in Australia after your studies. The key knows which stream applies to you, collects its documents quickly, collects on time, and looks at its Immiaccount for updates. 

This is a step towards launching your career or creating a route for permanent residence. And when the application may find it difficult, you have already done a tough part – to fulfill your Australian qualifications. 

Should you help you choose your stream or review your docs? I am to chat here and make the process smooth and clarify.