Temporary Graduate Visa
Australia
Last updated: December 20, 2025
18 months
$2,300
2-8 months
Medium
About this Visa
The 485 is Australia's graduate work visa. You apply after finishing your degree at an Australian university. It lets you stay and work in Australia for 18 months to 3 years (depending on your degree). This visa is for recent international graduates who studied full-time at an Australian university. You can work anywhere, study more, or both. You stay as a temporary resident—this isn't a permanent visa. The visa is special because it doesn't require a job offer. You can change jobs anytime. You can bring your spouse and children with you.
Key Benefits
- Work anywhere without job restrictions
- Bring spouse/partner with full work rights
- Bring children who can attend school
- Study more if you want
- Travel in and out of Australia freely
- Path to permanent residency with work experience
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be under 35 years old (exception: 50 for Master's research, PhD, or Hong Kong/BNO passport)
- Completed 2 years of full-time study at Australian university
- Spent at least 16 months in Australia while studying
- English test score: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent
- No serious criminal record
- Must apply within 6 months of finishing course
- English test exemptions: UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, or Hong Kong/BNO passport holders
Financial Requirement
Show enough money for 3-6 months of living expenses. Bank statements from last 6 months usually sufficient.
Documents
- Valid passportMust cover intended stay period
- Proof of course completionOfficial letter from university
- English test resultsIELTS 6.5 or equivalent (PTE)
- Police clearance certificateLess than 12 months old
- Health insurance proofOVHC or Medicare eligibility
- Bank statementsLast 6 months showing sufficient funds
- Police certificates from other countriesIf lived 1+ year outside Australia
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.