The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) remains one of the most important options for international students wanting to stay and work in Australia after completing their studies. Whether you have studied in a major city like, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, or a small city in Australia, the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is your gateway to stay longer and work. With changes to the 485 visa rules taking effect from July 1, 2025, it’s crucial to understand the updated eligibility criteria, application process, and post-study work rights.
In this article, we explain everything you need to know about the 485 visa in 2025, including processing times and a handy checklist to guide your application.
What Is the 485 Visa?
The 485 visa is a Temporary Graduate Visa that allows international graduates to live, study, and work in Australia after completing their studies. There are three streams:
- Post-Vocational Education Work – For international students who have recently graduated with an associate degree, diploma or trade qualification relevant to an occupation Australia needs. It allows you to live, study and work in Australia temporarily.
- Post-Higher Education Work – For international students who have recently graduated with a degree from an Australian institution. It allows you to live, work and study in Australia temporarily.
- Second Post-Higher Education Work – Temporary Graduates holding a Post-Higher Education Work, Post-Study Work or Replacement visa with a degree from an Australian institution located in a regional area. It allows you to live, work and study in Australia temporarily.
485 Visa Eligibility (2025)
To be eligible for the 485 visa in 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Completed a relevant qualification from an Australian CRICOS-registered institution (diploma, degree, or trade qualification).
- English language proficiency with a valid test result (IELTS 6.5 overall, no band lower than 5.5). Test results must be no older than 12 months at the time of application.
- Under 35 to years of age at the time of applying or you can be under 50 years of age in some circumstances.
- Lodged your application within 6 months of holding a valid student visa.
- Health insurance and character requirements must be met.
How to Apply for the 485 Visa
485 Visa Checklist
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents:
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts and qualification certificates
- English test results (within 12 months)
- Proof of adequate health insurance
- Police clearance certificates (if required)
- Completed application form
- Payment confirmation of visa fee
485 Visa Processing Time (2025)
As of 2025, the average 485 visa processing time is around 83 days. However, this can vary depending on the stream you apply under, how complete your application is, and whether further information is requested.
To avoid delays, ensure your application is accurate, well-documented, and submitted within the required timeframe.
485 Visa Work Rights
One of the key benefits of the 485 visa is that it comes with full work rights. Visa holders can work full-time in any industry or occupation. This gives graduates the opportunity to gain professional experience, build local networks, and potentially transition to a skilled visa in the future.
485 Visa Extension – What’s Changing in 2025?
From July 2025, important changes will apply to 485 visa extensions:
- The two-year automatic extension for select qualifications and institutions will no longer apply.
- New eligibility criteria will focus on qualifications and employment aligned with national skills needs.
- Application fees for extensions will also increase, in line with broader changes to visa pricing.
Make sure to review your extension options carefully or speak with an Immigration Lawyer to understand your best path forward.
Conclusion
The Temporary Graduate Visa remains a valuable opportunity for international students to gain post-study work experience and potentially transition to long-term stay options in Australia.
As 2025 brings new changes to the 485 visa, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and plan ahead. If you need personalised guidance or assistance with your application, the experienced migration team at IR Legal is here to help.
IR Legal – Supporting Your Future in Australia
Whether you’re looking to apply, extend, or understand your work rights under the 485 visa, IR Legal offer tailored legal and migration support to ensure your goals are achieved with confidence.
