Intel Migration | Premium Header
Graduate Visas | Intel Migration
Brisbane Story Bridge
Post-Study Pathways

Graduate
Visas.

Maximise your post-study stay with a Subclass 485 Graduate Visa. Our Registered Migration Agents provide expert guidance on the latest reforms, including the Post-Higher Education and Post-Vocational streams, to secure your bridge to Australian PR.

ACADEMIC PATHWAY

Post-Higher
Education Stream

For graduates of Australian Bachelor, Masters, or Doctoral degrees. This stream provides full work rights to gain professional experience.

Visa Duration 2 - 3 Years (Plus Extensions)
Work Permissions Full Unrestricted Work Rights
VOCATIONAL STREAM

Post-Vocational
Education Stream

For graduates with qualifications (Trade/Diploma) that relate to occupations on the Skilled Occupation List.

Visa Duration Typically 18 Months
Work Permissions Full Unrestricted Work Rights

Master the
485 Reform Criteria.

Recent reforms have significantly changed stream eligibility and stay durations. Our registered agents specialise in navigating these technical updates to ensure your transition to PR is secure.

Book Graduate Consultation

Registered Migration Authority

MARA Registered #1688088
Graduate Visas | Intel Migration
Brisbane Story Bridge
Legislative Compliance

Eligibility
Requirements.

A Subclass 485 application requires technical adherence to several core pillars. Explore the benchmarks below to ensure your transition is decision-ready.

CRICOS Study

Completion of an eligible course at a CRICOS-registered Australian institution.

Course must be at the appropriate AQF level for your chosen stream.

Age Benchmark

Must be under 50 years of age at the time of your application lodgement.

Note: New policy proposals may lower this age cap for certain streams.

Character Specs

Evidence of health examinations and police clearances (character checks).

Includes Australian Federal Police (AFP) check and overseas clearances.

Application Timing

Application must be lodged within 6 months of your course completion date.

Timing is calculated from the date of your official completion letter.

English Ability

Meeting 'Competent English' benchmarks (IELTS, PTE, or equivalent).

Minimum overall score requirements apply to all 485 applicants.

Substantive Visa

Must hold an eligible student visa within the 6 months prior to application.

Ensures a lawful transition from study to work status.

Strategic Review Notice

"Australian graduate visa policies are subject to frequent legislative updates. Meeting these base requirements is the first step; a custom professional strategy is what ensures success."

MARA REGISTERED AGENT #1688088
Graduate Visas | Intel Migration
Brisbane Story Bridge
Transition Strategy

Application
Process.

A technically precise 6-step roadmap from your Australian graduation to securing full post-study work rights.

1

Course Completion

Securing your official completion letter and final academic transcript from your CRICOS provider.

2

Skills Assessment

Mandatory for the Graduate Work Stream to verify your technical qualifications against your nominated occupation.

3

Document Preparation

Compilation of evidentiary requirements, including English proficiency results and valid identity verification.

4

Health & Character

Lodgement of your Australian Federal Police (AFP) check and completion of required technical medical exams.

5

Application Submission

Final technical review and lodgement of your 485 visa through the ImmiAccount portal within 6 months of completion.

6

Visa Grant

Receipt of your visa approval notice and the commencement of your full Australian work rights.

Ready to Transition to
Work Rights?

Timing is everything for a Graduate Visa. Let our registered agents manage your roadmap today.

Start Your Process
MARA REGISTERED AGENT #1688088
Graduate Visas | Intel Migration
Brisbane Story Bridge
Graduate Support Portal

Frequently
Asked Questions.

Technical analysis and expert answers to help you navigate your transition from an Australian qualification to full professional work rights.

How long can I stay on a 485 Graduate visa?

The duration depends on your stream: Graduate Work Stream typically provides 18 months. The Post-Study Work Stream offers 2 years for Bachelor/Masters graduates and 3-4 years for PhD graduates. Note that regional study may provide an additional 1-2 years through a "Second Temporary Graduate" visa.

Can I apply for permanent residence while on a 485 visa?

Yes, the 485 visa is designed as a strategic bridge to PR. While working in Australia on this visa, you can accumulate the points and work experience required for General Skilled Migration (189, 190, 491) or secure an Employer Sponsorship (482, 186).

What study qualifications are eligible for 485 visa?

You must have completed a CRICOS-registered course in Australia for at least 2 academic years (92 weeks). Eligible qualifications include Bachelor degrees, Masters, PhDs, and certain diploma or trade qualifications that align with occupations on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).

Can my family join me on a Graduate visa?

Absolutely. You can include your spouse, de facto partner, and dependent children in your 485 visa application. Once granted, they will have unrestricted work and study rights in Australia for the same duration as your visa.

Do I need to work in my field of study?

Technically, no. There are currently no restrictions on the type of work you can perform on a 485 visa. However, we strongly recommend working in your field if you intend to apply for Skilled Migration later, as relevant work experience provides vital points for permanent residency.

Complex Scenario or
Policy Query?

Migration policy is highly individualised and subject to rapid change. Speak with our experts to secure a roadmap tailored to your career goals.

Ask an Agent
MARA REGISTERED AGENT #1688088
Intel Migration - Contact Form
Deep Blue Waves
Get In Touch

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Our MARA-registered agents are here to provide expert advice tailored to your unique situation.

Call Us

+61 402 043 744

Email Us

info@intelmigration.com.au

By submitting this form, you agree to our Privacy Policy.