Overview of the Subclass 485 Visa
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is a critical pathway for international students who have recently completed their studies at an Australian educational institution. This visa allows graduates to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily. In 2026, the Australian Government has implemented significant reforms to the migration system, including tightened age limits and updated fee structures, to better align the program with Australia's skilled labor needs.
Eligibility Streams and Stay Periods
The 485 visa is divided into specific streams based on your qualification level. Following the 2024–2025 reforms, the streams have been renamed to reflect the educational background of the applicant more clearly.
| Visa Stream | Eligible Qualifications | Standard Stay Period |
| Post-Higher Education Work Stream | Bachelor, Master (Coursework), Master (Research), or Doctoral degree | 2 – 3 years (up to 5 years for HK/BNO passport holders) |
| Post-Vocational Education Work Stream | Associate degree, Diploma, or Trade qualification | Up to 18 months (up to 5 years for HK/BNO passport holders) |
| Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream | For those who lived and studied in regional Australia | 1 – 2 additional years |
Key Eligibility Criteria for 2026
To qualify for a Subclass 485 visa in 2026, applicants must meet the following strict requirements at the time of lodgement:
- Age Limit: You must be 35 years of age or under at the time of application. Exceptions apply for Masters (research) and Doctoral degree graduates, and Hong Kong/British National Overseas passport holders, who may apply up to age 50.
- Study Requirement: You must have completed a CRICOS-registered course within the last 6 months before applying. The course must meet the Australian Study Requirement (at least 92 weeks of registered study).
- English Language Proficiency: You must provide evidence of English proficiency taken within the last 12 months.
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 (with at least 5.5 in each component).
- PTE Academic: Overall score of 57 (with at least 43 in each component).
- Health & Character: You must have adequate health insurance (OVHC) and have applied for an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check.
Application Fees and Costs
Effective 1 March 2026, the Department of Home Affairs significantly increased the Base Application Charge for the Temporary Graduate visa.
| Applicant Type | Base Application Charge (AUD) |
| Primary Applicant | $4,600 |
| Additional Applicant (18 and over) | $2,300 |
| Additional Applicant (under 18) | $1,160 |
Note: These fees do not include the costs for medical examinations, police certificates, or English language testing.
Processing Times
Processing times fluctuate based on application volume and the complexity of individual cases. As of March 2026, the Department of Home Affairs provides the following benchmarks:
- Post-Higher Education Work Stream:
- 50% of applications: 8 days
- 90% of applications: 83 days
- Post-Vocational Education Work Stream:
- 50% of applications: 46 days
- 90% of applications: 4 months
Applicants are encouraged to ensure all documents, including English results and AFP receipts, are attached at the time of lodgement to avoid delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for the 485 visa if I am over 35?
A: Under the 2026 rules, the age limit is 35 for most applicants. However, if you have completed a Master by Research or a PhD, or if you hold a Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport, you remain eligible up to the age of 50.
Q: Do I need a Skills Assessment for the 485 visa?
A: A Skills Assessment is mandatory for the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream. It is generally not required for the Post-Higher Education Work Stream.
Q: Can I include my partner on my application?
A: Yes, you can include "subsequent entrants" such as partners and dependent children. Be aware that the secondary applicant fee is $2,300 for adults as of March 2026.
Q: What happens if I miss the 6-month application window?
A: The 6-month rule is strictly enforced from the date of your "Completion of Requirements" (the date on your official completion letter). If you apply after this window, your application will be refused.
