Graduating from an Australian university is a milestone worth celebrating, but for many international students, it also raises an important question: What’s next? If you’ve fallen in love with the idea of living, working, or continuing your studies in Australia, the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) could be your ticket to staying longer and building your future here. This visa, commonly referred to as the 485 Graduate Visa, opens doors to exciting possibilities—but understanding its nuances is crucial to making it work for you.
Imagine this: You’ve just wrapped up your degree, your suitcase is filled with dreams, and you’re not ready to leave behind the connections, opportunities, and lifestyle Australia has to offer. The 485 Graduate Visa is designed for graduates like you. It allows you to:
This visa is designed to give you time to establish yourself after graduation, whether it’s by gaining relevant experience, networking in your industry, or transitioning to another visa.
Australia’s Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is divided into three streams, each tailored to specific qualifications and career goals. Whether you’ve earned a degree, completed vocational training, or previously held a Temporary Graduate Visa, there’s a stream that caters to your aspirations. Here’s an in-depth look at each option, including costs, benefits, and eligibility highlights.
For many graduates, the 485 Graduate Visa is more than a temporary fix: it’s a steppingstone to a more permanent life in Australia. With time to gain valuable local work experience, you can build the credentials needed to apply for permanent residency.
Visa pathways like the Skilled Independent Visa(subclass 189) or the Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190) often reward individuals with Australian qualifications and work experience. If you’re willing to live and work in regional areas, additional incentives and opportunities for residency can open up, too. The possibilities are vast, but it’s essential to use your time wisely and strategically.
While the 485 Graduate Visa offers fantastic opportunities, there are challenges you need to navigate:
The process of applying for the 485 Graduate Visa might seem overwhelming, but breaking it down makes it manageable:
One thing you can’t skip is health insurance. To apply for the 485 Graduate Visa, you must have valid Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) in place. This isn’t just a box to tick—it’s a crucial safeguard for your well-being during your stay. Make sure your insurance is active from the moment you apply and remains valid throughout your visa period.
Having the freedom to work full-time in Australia is one of the most significant perks of the 485 Graduate Visa. This isn’t just about earning a paycheck—it’s a chance to gain hands-on experience in your field, expand your professional network, and showcase your skills to potential employers. To make the most of your 485 Graduate Visa, keep these tips in mind:
The 485 Graduate Visa isn’t just a document: it’s a golden opportunity to turn your dreams into reality. Whether you want to explore Australia’s vibrant cities, dive into professional growth, or set the stage for permanent residency, this visa offers a clear and achievable pathway.
Yes, there are challenges. Yes, the process can feel daunting. But with careful planning, strategic decisions, and a bit of determination, you can make this visa work for you.
So, if you’re staring at a graduation cap and wondering what comes next, remember that Australia still has plenty to offer. The 485 Graduate Visa could be your next big adventure—and the start of an incredible new chapter in your life.
Australia is a top destination for international students, offering high-quality education, a diverse culture, and excellent post-study work opportunities.
Australia is one of the top destinations for international students, offering high-quality education, vibrant cultural experiences, and excellent career opportunities.
If you’re considering applying through the GSM program, there are two key terms you need to know: Expression of Interest (EOI) and Registration of Interest (ROI). These steps are crucial in getting your application noticed.
Course | Bachelor’s Degree | Master’s Degree | Requirements or Considerations | English Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) | Tuition Fees (per year for international students) | Top Universities |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Nursing | 3 years | 1-2 years | Clinical placements required; may need specific health immunizations. | Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93. | AUD $30,000 - $45,000 | University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, Monash University |
Information Technology | 3-4 years | 1-2 years | May require programming skills or prior coursework in IT. | Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93. | AUD $30,000 - $50,000 | Australian National University, University of New South Wales, University of Melbourne |
Accounting | 3 years | 1-2 years | Need to meet accreditation standards by professional bodies. | Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93. | AUD $30,000 - $40,000 | University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of Queensland |
Engineering (various fields) | 4 years | 1-2 years | Strong background in mathematics and physics required. | Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93. | AUD $35,000 - $45,000 | University of New South Wales, University of Sydney, Monash University |
Social Work | 4 years | 1-2 years | Practical experience or placements required. | Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101. | AUD $28,000 - $40,000 | University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of Queensland |
Education (various fields) | 4 years | 1-2 years | A police clearance and working with children check required. | Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101. | AUD $28,000 - $35,000 | University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Monash University |
Psychology | 3 years | 1-2 years | Requires strong research and psychological theory understanding. | Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101. | AUD $30,000 - $45,000 | University of Sydney, University of New South Wales, University of Queensland |
Occupational Therapy | 3-4 years | 1-2 years | May require pre-registration or relevant clinical experience. | Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101. | AUD $30,000 - $45,000 | University of Queensland, University of Sydney, Curtin University |
Architecture | 3-4 years | 2 years | Includes technical and creative coursework, portfolio may be required. | Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93. | AUD $35,000 - $50,000 | University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, Monash University |
Medicine and Health Sciences | 5-6 years | 2-4 years | Highly competitive entry, includes clinical placements and internships. | Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101. | AUD $45,000 - $70,000 | University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Australian National University |
State/Territory | Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa) | Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa) |
---|---|---|
New South Wales (NSW) | Required for some occupations | Required for some occupations and regions |
Victoria (VIC) | Required | Required |
Queensland (QLD) | Not typically required, conditions apply | Required for some occupations and regions |
South Australia (SA) | Not typically required, conditions apply | Required for some occupations and regions |
Western Australia (WA) | Not typically required | Not typically required |
Tasmania (TAS) | Not typically required, conditions apply | Not typically required, conditions apply |
Northern Territory (NT) | Not typically required | Not typically required |
Australian Capital Territory (ACT) | Required, uses Matrix system | Required, uses Matrix system |