The Skilled Graduate (Subclass 485) visa is a temporary visa that allows recent international graduates to live, work, and study in Australia after completing their studies. This visa provides valuable post-study opportunities and, for many, acts as a pathway towards permanent residency.

Key Highlights

  • Must apply while in Australia
  • Live, work, and study in Australia temporarily
  • Two streams available: Post-Vocational Education Work and Post-Higher Education Work
  • Visa duration depends on the chosen stream (Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders may be granted longer stays)
  • Possibility of a second or third visa in the Post-Higher Education Work stream if residency requirements are met

Eligibility Requirements

Common Criteria for All Streams

  • Hold, or have held, an eligible student visa within the last 6 months
  • Meet English language proficiency requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5, or equivalent). Exemptions apply to certain passport holders
  • Be 35 years or younger, unless:
    • You hold a Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport (under 50), or
    • You completed a Master’s (Research) or PhD (under 50)
  • Maintain adequate health insurance
  • Meet health and character requirements, including an AFP police check within the last 12 months
  • Satisfy Public Interest and Special Return criteria

Post-Vocational Education Work Stream

  • Nominate an occupation from the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skilled List (MLTSSL)
  • Hold a relevant qualification (associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification) completed within the last 6 months
  • Complete at least 2 years of study in Australia related to your nominated occupation
  • Obtain a positive skills assessment from the relevant authority

Post-Higher Education Work Stream

  • Hold a recognised higher education qualification (Bachelor, Bachelor Honours, Masters, or Doctoral degree)
  • Qualification awarded by an institution listed on the CRICOS register
  • Meet the Australian Study Requirement within the last 6 months (concessions may apply)
Important Notice: This page provides general information only. Visa requirements are subject to frequent changes. Please contact Starks Immigration Services for tailored migration advice.

Why Choose Starks Immigration Services?

At Starks Immigration Services, we help international graduates transition smoothly from student life to post-study opportunities in Australia. Whether you are looking for temporary work, regional opportunities, or pathways to permanent residency, our team ensures your application is accurate, complete, and compliant with migration law.

01

Expert Guidance

At Starks Immigration Services, we provide personalized support from the very beginning—starting with your Expression of Interest (EOI), all the way through to your final visa grant. Our team makes sure you understand each step clearly, so you can move forward with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.

02

Trusted Immigration

Australian immigration laws and policies change frequently. At Starks, we stay on top of the latest updates to provide you with accurate and timely advice. Our trusted guidance ensures your application is aligned with current regulations, improving your chances of a successful outcome.

Book an Appointment

Maximise your opportunities in Australia after graduation.

Depending on your stream, the visa allows you to stay between 18 months to 4 years. Hong Kong and BNO passport holders may be eligible for up to 5 years.

Yes. You can include eligible family members such as your partner and dependent children.

The Subclass 485 visa itself is temporary, but it provides valuable work experience in Australia that can help you meet the criteria for skilled permanent visas (such as Subclass 189, 190, or 491).

No, you don’t need a job offer. However, your qualifications and occupation must meet the requirements for your chosen visa stream.

Generally, you can only hold one 485 visa. However, under the Post-Higher Education Work stream, some graduates may qualify for a second or third visa if they residency conditions.

Quick Inquiry

Get in Touch