Visa Type 485 – Post-Study Work Stream | Visa Aid Australia
The Post-Study Work Stream (Subclass 485) allows international graduates to stay in Australia after completing their studies. This temporary visa helps graduates gain Australian work experience and prepare for permanent residency pathways.
This visa is ideal for students who have completed at least two academic years of study in Australia at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral level.
Key points
• Full work rights
• No skills assessment required
• Travel freely in Australia
• Pathway to PR
• Valid for 2–4 years depending on qualification
With this visa, you can work full-time, travel freely, and build your professional career in Australia.
- The field of speciality is irrelevant as long as your studies are at the appropriate level, and there is No occupation list requirement for eligibility.
- .Assessment of skills is NOT necessary for the post-study employment visa
Both full work and full study rights are included with the visa. While the visa is still valid, you are free to travel to and from Australia.
Currently, processing 485 visas takes two to three months for a comprehensive application.
Visa validity
The length of your 485 visa depends on your qualification:
• Bachelor degree – up to 2 years
• Master by coursework – up to 2 years
• Master by research – up to 3 years (subject to policy)
• Doctorate – up to 4 years
Additional extensions may apply for selected qualifications and regional study.
First Student Visa Requirement
You must have held your first Australian student visa on or after 5 November 2011 to be eligible for the Post-Study Work Stream.
Eligibility is based on the date of visa application, not the date of visa grant.
Australian Study Requirement
• Complete at least 2 academic years of study
• Study in CRICOS-registered courses
• Study must be taught in English
• Study duration must be at least 92 weeks
• Qualification must be Bachelor, Master, or Doctoral level
You may combine multiple courses if they meet these requirements.
English Language Requirement
You must show English proficiency through:
• IELTS
• TOEFL
• PTE Academic
• Cambridge English
Minimum scores apply as per Home Affairs guidelines.
Health Insurance Requirement
• Hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Complete health examinations if required
• Provide Australian Federal Police clearance
Medical Examination
A 485 visa will typically require you to undergo medical examinations. You might be eligible to utilise these medical records again if you recently applied for a student visa extension.
Police Clearance
For yourself and any family members who are 16 years old or older, an Australian Federal Police (AFP) Check is required. You must submit an application for the AFP checks before submitting your 485 visa.
Application Time Limit
You must apply for your 485 visa within 6 months of completing your course.
At the time of application, you must hold:
• A valid student visa, OR
• A Bridging Visa A or B (if applicable)
Bridging Visa
When you apply for Subclass 485, you will usually receive a Bridging Visa A, allowing you to remain in Australia while your application is processed.
Start Your 485 Visa Journey
Visa Aid provides expert assistance with:
• Eligibility checks
• Document preparation
• English requirement guidance
• Visa application submission
• PR pathway planning