Australia Post-Study Work Visa (485): Everything You Need to Know (2026)
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is one of Australia’s most attractive post-study pathways, offering genuine work experience in a strong economy immediately after graduation.
What is the 485 visa?
The subclass 485 has two streams:
- Post-Study Work Stream: For bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral graduates. No occupation restriction.
- Graduate Work Stream: For diploma and vocational graduates in occupations on Australia’s skilled occupation list (SOL).
Most international university graduates apply for the Post-Study Work Stream.
How long does the 485 last?
| Qualification | Study location | 485 duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s (non-STEM) | Metro | 2 years |
| Bachelor’s (STEM) | Metro | 4 years |
| Master’s coursework | Metro | 2–3 years |
| Master’s research | Metro | 3 years |
| PhD | Metro | 4 years |
| Any degree | Regional | +1–2 years bonus |
From November 2023 policy update; STEM extension applies to eligible courses
STEM extension explained
The two-year STEM extension applies when at least one year of your qualifying degree was in a STEM-related field. Eligible fields include:
- Computer science and IT
- Engineering (all disciplines)
- Mathematics and statistics
- Physical, chemical and biological sciences
- Architecture and construction
This means a computer science graduate at Sydney or Melbourne can access up to 4 years of unrestricted work in Australia after graduation.
Pathway to permanent residence
The 485 provides time to build an Australian work history, which improves SkillSelect points for permanent residence:
- Points-tested skilled visas (189, 190): work experience in Australia adds 5–15 points
- Employer nomination (186 ENS): two years of full-time skilled employment with a sponsoring employer qualifies you to apply
- State nomination (190): many states prioritise 485 holders with local work experience
When to apply
Apply within 6 months of your course completion date (the date on your academic record, not graduation ceremony). Requirements:
- Degree from a CRICOS-registered institution
- 2 years of study in Australia
- Under 50 years of age
- IELTS 6.0+ (or equivalent) from a test taken in last 3 years
Work conditions on 485
The Post-Study Work Stream 485 has no occupation or employer restrictions. You may:
- Work full-time or casual in any industry
- Change employers freely
- Study additional courses
- Travel internationally and re-enter Australia
Sources: Department of Home Affairs Subclass 485 fact sheet (2025), DIBP policy update November 2023.