How to Apply for TR in Australia After Study (Temporary Graduate Visa – Subclass 485)?

Finishing your studies in Australia is a thrilling achievement, but what’s next? Most international students would like to remain longer, work in Australia, and acquire some valuable experience. The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) enables students who have just graduated from an Australian institution to remain in Australia and acquire work experience in Australia.

This guide covers all you need to know about the 485 visa, including visa options, eligibility, and application. Whether you want to apply for this visa, become eligible for a post-study work visa, or map out your pathway to permanent residency, this guide has you covered.

What Is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) For International Students?

The temporary graduate visa is a temporary visa that allows international students to live and work in Australia after study. It offers post-study work rights and is available to students who have completed their degrees from a degree in Australia.

The visa offers two main work streams, each with different study requirements and conditions. The goal is to help international students in Australia transition to the workforce while increasing their chances of securing a permanent visa.

Who Is Eligible for the 485 Visa?

To qualify for a post-study work visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Held a student visa within the last 6 months.
• Recently graduated with a degree from an Australian institution.
• Meet the Australian study requirement (at least two years of study).
• Have a valid student visa at the time of application.
• Meet English language and health requirements.

What are the Different Streams of the Temporary Graduate Visa in Australia?

The temporary graduate visa (subclass 485) is divided into different work visa streams. Each stream has specific eligibility criteria and benefits.

1. Post-Higher Education Work Stream

This post-higher education work visa is for international students who have recently completed a degree from an Australian institution. It allows graduates to stay in Australia and gain Australian work experience.

Qualification	Stay Duration
Bachelor’s Degree	Up to 2 years
Master’s Degree (Coursework)	Up to 2 years
Master’s Degree (Research)	Up to 3 years
PhD	Up to 3 years

This visa allows international students to work in any field, with no occupation restrictions.

2. Post-Vocational Education Work Stream

This post-vocational education work stream is for students with trade qualifications. It requires a qualification closely related to an occupation on Australia’s skilled work list.

Qualification	Stay Duration
Diploma or Trade Qualification	Up to 18 months

Applicants must apply for a skilled nominated visa or skilled independent visa if they wish to stay longer.

3. Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream

The second post-higher education work stream is for regional students who studied in an institution located in a regional area.

Location of Study	Additional Stay Duration
Major Cities	No extra stay
Regional Area	1-2 extra years

This option is beneficial for students who want to live and work in regional Australia.

How to Apply for the Post Study Work Visa After Study?

To apply for the visa for students who have recently graduated, follow these steps:

1. Gather Required Documents

Before submitting your visa application, ensure you have the following:

• Valid passport
• Completion certificate from your Australian university
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or higher)
• Overseas student health cover
• Police clearance certificate
• Visa processing fee payment

2. Submit Your Visa Application

To apply for this visa, you must submit your application online via the Department of Home Affairs portal.

Pro Tip: Double-check that all documents are included to prevent delays.

3. Wait for Visa Processing

The visa processing time varies depending on the stream:

• Post-Higher Education Work Stream: 5–7 months
• Post-Vocational Education Work Stream: 6–9 months
• Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream: 3–5 months

If your visa expires before a decision is made, you may be eligible for a bridging visa

What is the Pathway to Permanent Residency in thr Australian Soil?

The temporary graduate visa is often the first step toward a permanent visa. Here’s how it works:

• Gain work experience in Australia under the 485 visa.
• Apply for a skilled independent visa or skilled nominated visa.
• Meet the requirements for permanent residency.

Important: Changes to the temporary graduate visa mean international students in Australia must now apply for a new visa after their post-study work visa expires.

Fun Facts About Working and Studying in Australia:

• Australia needs skilled professionals in IT, engineering, and healthcare.
• South Australia is one of the best places for international graduates to find jobs.
• Studying at an institution located in a regional area can provide extra visa benefits.

Top 15 Universities and Exciting Careers to Pursue in Australia After Study

Embarking on higher education in Australia offers international students access to world-class universities and promising career prospects.

Below is a curated list of the top 15 Australian universities, their global rankings, average annual tuition fees, and the exciting career paths they open, along with potential average salaries.

University	Global Ranking	Average Annual Tuition Fees (AUD)	Popular Courses	Potential Careers	Average Annual Salary (AUD)
University of Melbourne	13	37,203 – 87,769	Medicine, Engineering, Business	Surgeon, Engineer, Financial Analyst	200,000 – 400,000
University of Sydney	18	37,505 – 73,949	Law, Arts, Health Sciences	Lawyer, Marketing Director, General Practitioner	120,000 – 250,000
Australian National University	30	28,000 – 48,500	International Relations, Science, Law	Diplomat, Research Scientist, Legal Advisor	100,000 – 200,000
University of Queensland	40	36,800 – 45,120	Biotechnology, Environmental Science, Business	Biotechnologist, Environmental Consultant, Investment Banker	90,000 – 200,000
Monash University	42	35,000 – 55,000	Pharmacy, Engineering, IT	Pharmacist, Software Engineer, IT Manager	80,000 – 180,000
University of New South Wales	45	37,000 – 60,000	Engineering, Business, Law	Civil Engineer, Financial Dealer, Corporate Lawyer	110,000 – 250,000
University of Western Australia	77	30,000 – 45,000	Marine Biology, Mining Engineering, Architecture	Marine Biologist, Mining Engineer, Architect	85,000 – 170,000
University of Adelaide	82	32,500 – 46,000	Medicine, Dentistry, Agriculture	Dentist, Agricultural Scientist, Medical Specialist	150,000 – 300,000
University of Technology Sydney	88	31,210 – 65,183	Design, Communication, IT	Graphic Designer, Communications Director, IT Consultant	70,000 – 150,000
University of Wollongong	167	25,918 – 42,384	Engineering, Health Sciences, Business	Mechanical Engineer, Health Services Manager, Accountant	80,000 – 140,000
Queensland University of Technology	213	27,907 – 50,671	Creative Industries, Law, Science	Creative Director, Solicitor, Data Analyst	75,000 – 130,000
Curtin University	174	27,870 – 85,008	Media, Arts, Education	Journalist, Visual Artist, Teacher	60,000 – 110,000
Macquarie University	133	30,000 – 40,000	Finance, Psychology, Linguistics	Financial Analyst, Psychologist, Translator	85,000 – 120,000
Griffith University	255	25,000 – 35,000	Environmental Science, Music, Business	Environmental Scientist, Music Producer, Business Consultant	70,000 – 110,000
Swinburne University of Technology	291	24,000 – 38,000	Information Technology, Design, Business	Software Developer, Industrial Designer, Marketing Specialist	80,000 – 130,000

Note: Rankings are based on the QS World University Rankings 2025. Tuition fees are approximate and may vary depending on the specific program and level of study.

Conclusion

The temporary graduate visa (subclass 485) provides an excellent opportunity for international students to study and work in Australia. By meeting the temporary graduate visa study requirement, preparing a strong visa application, and exploring visa options, you can successfully apply for a permanent visa in the future.

Ensure you apply before your visa expires and stay informed about changes to the temporary graduate visa. For up-to-date information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

Want to make your study abroad dreams a reality? Talk to experts at Ambitio and set your goals of studying in Australia now!

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