Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485)

Navigating the path of post-graduate opportunities in Australia is a crucial step for many international students, and the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) provides an excellent gateway for those looking to extend their stay. Known colloquially as the "post study work visa," this visa allows recent graduates to remain in Australia to gain work experience, improve their skills, and enhance their careers. 

This blog post will offer an in-depth look at the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), including what it is, processing times, eligibility criteria, estimated fees, and more. By understanding the full scope of this visa, applicants can better prepare their applications and plan their future in Australia.

What is a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485)?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is a visa specifically designed for international students who have recently graduated from an Australian educational institution. This visa is divided into two streams: the Graduate Work stream and the Post-Study Work stream. The 485 Graduate Work stream is for international students with an eligible qualification who graduate with skills and qualifications that relate to an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List. 

On the other hand, the Post Study Work visa aspect of subclass 485 allows students who have completed higher education degrees in Australia to stay and work in the country for a period between two and four years, depending on their qualification level.

This visa is pivotal for those wishing to transition from study to full-time employment in Australia, offering a buffer to gain professional experience and potentially transition to other permanent residency pathways.

Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) Processing Time

The 485 visa processing time can vary based on several factors including the stream applied for, the completeness of the application, and the volume of applications received by the Department of Home Affairs. Generally, the Post Study Work stream has a faster processing time compared to the Graduate Work stream. As of the latest updates, the processing times for the Post Study Work stream can be anywhere from 8 to 10 months, whereas the Graduate Work stream might take slightly longer, ranging from 10 to 12 months.

Moreover, the 485 spouse visa processing time 2024 is also an important consideration for those applying with a partner. This time frame can be extended if additional documents are required or if there are complexities in verifying the relationship status.

Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria which vary slightly between the two streams. Here’s an overview of the common requirements as well as specifics for each stream:

This table format should help visualize the differences and commonalities in eligibility requirements between the different streams of the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), including the criteria for subsequent entrant visa applicants.

Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) Estimated Fees

The cost of applying for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) varies depending on the stream. As of the latest update, the application fee for the main applicant starts from AUD 1,650 for both the Graduate Work stream and the Post Study Work stream. Additional charges apply for each family member who applies for the visa with you.

For subsequent entrant visa 485 applicants, the fee structure is similar to that of the primary applicant, but additional costs may be incurred for biometrics collection, health examinations, and police certificates. It's crucial to consider these expenses when budgeting for the visa application.

Conclusion

The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) serves as a valuable opportunity for international graduates in Australia to extend their stay and gain valuable work experience in their field of study. With the recent introduction of the 485 visa new rules 2024, applicants now have more clarity on the requirements and can plan their applications more effectively. Whether you are pursuing the Graduate Work stream or the Post Study Work visa, understanding the processing times, eligibility requirements, and associated fees is crucial for a successful application. 

This visa not only offers practical benefits but also serves as a stepping stone to further opportunities in Australia, including permanent residency. For many international students, the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is the key to unlocking their future career potential in Australia.