Your Pathway to Extended Opportunities in Australia
Completing your studies in Australia is a major milestone, but what’s next? If you’re looking to extend your stay, gain valuable work experience, or explore further study options, the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is the perfect solution. At Ignite Education, we provide expert services to help you navigate the application process so you can explore more opportunities during your extended stay.
What is a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?
The Temporary Graduate Visa is designed specifically for recent international graduates from Australian educational institutions. This visa allows you to live, work or study in Australia temporarily while you build your career and explore pathways to permanent residency.
Depending on your qualifications and circumstances, you can apply under one of the following streams:
- Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
- Post-Higher Education Work Stream
- Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream
Understanding the Temporary Graduate Visa Streams
Post-Vocational Education Work Stream:
Eligibility: Designed for graduates with qualifications relevant to occupations on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Stay Period: Up to 18 months (Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders may stay for up to 5 years).
Cost: From AUD $1945
Requirements:
- Be 35 years of age or under when applying (exceptions apply for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders).
- Have a qualification closely related to an occupation on the MLTSSL.
- Provide evidence of a relevant skills assessment in your nominated occupation.
Post-Higher Education Work Stream:
Eligibility: For graduates with higher education qualifications, such as bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees, from a CRICOS-registered Australian institution.
Stay Period:
- Bachelor’s Degree (including Honours) – Up to 2 years.
- Master’s (Coursework and Extended) – Up to 2 years.
- Master’s (Research) and Doctoral Degree (PhD) – Up to 3 years.
- Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders – Up to 5 years.
- Indian nationals under the AI-ECTA agreement – Stay periods vary, with extensions for STEM and ICT degrees.
Requirements:
- Be 35 years of age or under when applying (exceptions for specific qualifications or passports).
- Hold a recent degree in a CRICOS-registered course.
Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream:
Eligibility: For graduates who previously held a Post-Higher Education Work visa and completed their degree in a regional area.
Stay Period: 1–2 years, depending on the regional location of your educational institution and residence during the previous visa.
Requirements: Be 35 years of age or under when applying (exceptions for certain degrees or passports).
Costs and Processing Times
- Post-Vocational Education Work Stream: From AUD 1,945.
- Post-Higher Education Work Stream: From AUD 1,945.
- Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream: From AUD 765.
Processing Times:
Processing times vary depending on the stream and individual circumstances.
Additional Costs and Considerations
- Visa Fees: The primary applicant fee is $1,945. Additional charges apply for family members.
- Other Expenses: Health checks, police certificates, and biometrics may incur extra costs.
- Health Insurance: Ensure continuous health coverage through an Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) plan.
Key Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Temporary Graduate Visa, you must meet the following conditions:
- Age Requirement:
- Be 35 or under at the time of application (exceptions for specific passport holders and higher degree qualifications).
- Australian Study Requirement:
- Successfully complete at least 2 years of study in a CRICOS-registered course.
- English Language Proficiency:
- Demonstrate a competent level of English through approved tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
- Health and Character Checks:
- Provide evidence of health insurance coverage.
- Submit a valid Australian Federal Police (AFP) check.
- Undergo required medical examinations.
- Application Timing:
- Apply within six months of completing your course.
- First-Time Applicant:
- You can apply for this visa only once as a primary applicant (exceptions apply for subsequent streams).
Benefits of the Temporary Graduate Visa
Work Opportunities:
- Unlike student visa, this visa allows you to gain hands-on experience full-time in your chosen field and build your professional network in Australia.
Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR):
- Use this visa to bridge the gap between graduation and permanent residency.
Family Inclusion:
- Bring your spouse and children along, allowing them to live, work, or study in Australia.
Flexibility:
- Enjoy the freedom to work, travel, or pursue further studies during your stay.
How Ignite Education Can Help?
Navigating the visa application process can be complex, but with Ignite Education, you’re in good hands. Our experienced and dedicated team provides you with:
- Personalised advice based on your qualifications and personal goals
- Ensures you meet all eligibility criteria and application requirements.
- Offers comprehensive support, from preparing documents to lodging your application.
Get Ready to Start Your Journey with Ignite
Don’t let your journey in Australia end with your studies. The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) opens doors to invaluable experiences and opportunities. Contact Ignite Education today to explore your options, understand eligibility requirements, and start your application process.
Let Ignite Education light the path to your future in Australia!
