After you graduate, the Temporary Graduate visa gives you time to build Australian work experience — and points. Here's how to use it strategically.
What the 485 offers
The subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa lets recent Australian graduates live and work in Australia after their studies. For most, it's the critical bridge between student life and a skilled migration outcome.
There are streams based on your qualification and circumstances, each with its own eligibility and stay period. Choosing the right stream — and timing it well — is the key decision.
Eligibility in brief
You'll need an eligible qualification from an Australian institution, a recent skills assessment or completion evidence, and English proficiency. Age limits and regional study requirements affect which stream you qualify for and how long you can stay.
We map your qualification, age, and study location against the current streams so you know exactly what you qualify for and how long you have.
Turning experience into points
The 485's greatest value is time: time to gain skilled Australian work experience, improve your English, and accumulate points toward a 189, 190, or 491 invitation. Each year of skilled Australian work adds meaningful points to your score.
Used well, the 485 is not just a visa — it's a strategy period that shapes the strength of your skilled migration application.
Planning the transition
We help graduates plan the 485-to-PR transition: securing skilled employment aligned to your nominated occupation, obtaining a skills assessment, and timing your Expression of Interest for maximum points.
