Home / Services / Graduate Visa

Graduate Visa

The Temporary Graduate visa lets recent graduates of Australian institutions live, study and work in Australia temporarily. It is a key step for many students building towards permanent residence.

Subclass 485

Who this is for

  • International students who recently completed an eligible Australian qualification
  • Vocational (VET) graduates in an occupation that needs a skills assessment
  • Higher education graduates (bachelor, master or doctoral degree)

Visa options

Subclass 485

Post-Vocational Education Work stream

For graduates of eligible vocational courses. Needs a skills assessment, such as a TRA Provisional Skills Assessment for trades.

Subclass 485

Post-Higher Education Work stream

For graduates with an eligible bachelor, master or doctoral degree from an Australian institution.

Subclass 485

Second Post-Higher Education Work stream

An additional stay for eligible graduates who studied and lived in a regional area.

Key requirements

  • Held a Student visa in the 6 months before applying
  • Meet the Australian study requirement
  • Apply within 6 months of completing your course
  • Age limits apply (generally under 35, with some exceptions)
  • English test results that meet the current minimum score
  • Australian Federal Police check and health insurance

Good to know: Timing matters. Missing the 6-month window or applying in the wrong stream can be costly to fix, so speak to us before your course ends.

How we can help

  • Confirm the right stream and check your eligibility before you lodge
  • Arrange the skills assessment for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream
  • Plan your next steps towards a skilled or employer-sponsored visa

Common questions

Do I need a skills assessment for the 485 visa?

Only for the Post-Vocational Education Work stream. For many trade occupations this is the TRA Provisional Skills Assessment.

General information only, last reviewed October 2026. Requirements change often. Check the official Home Affairs pages or contact us for advice about your situation.

Talk to a registered migration agent

Tell us about your situation and we will explain your options clearly.

WhatsApp