Temporary Graduate Visa (485)
Post-study work rights, 2025 rule changes and new age ceiling for the 485 visa. Your bridge from study to permanent residency in Australia.
Important 2025 Changes
Age limit reduced to 35 · Higher English requirements · Tighter course alignment
Recent Changes (as of 2025)
Stay updated with the latest policy changes affecting the 485 visa
Age Limit Reduced
Maximum age reduced from 50 to 35 years
Source: immigrationagentadelaide.com.au
Higher English Requirements
IELTS 6.5 overall now required (up from 6.0)
Source: news.com.au
Tighter Course Alignment
Stricter requirements for course relevance to nominated occupation
Source: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
485 Visa Streams Comparison
Choose the right stream based on your qualifications and goals
Graduate Work Stream
For graduates with skills and qualifications relevant to specific occupations
Requirements
- Completed qualification from CRICOS provider
- Nominated occupation on Graduate Occupation List (GOL)
- Skills assessment from relevant authority
- Under 35 years of age
- IELTS 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0)
Benefits
- 18 months work rights in Australia
- Can apply for any job
- Pathway to skilled migration
- Time counts toward employment points
Post-Study Work Stream
For graduates with higher education qualifications from Australian institutions
Requirements
- Bachelor degree or higher from Australian institution
- Completed Australian Study Requirement (2+ years)
- Under 35 years of age
- IELTS 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0)
- First student visa granted on/after 5 November 2011
Benefits
- 2 years for Bachelor/Masters graduates
- 3 years for Masters (research) graduates
- 4 years for Doctoral graduates
- Open work authorization
- Pathway to permanent residency
Second Post-Study Work Stream
Additional work rights for eligible graduates in regional areas
Requirements
- Previously held 485 visa
- Completed further study in regional Australia
- Under 35 years of age
- IELTS 6.5 overall (no band less than 6.0)
- Meet health and character requirements
Benefits
- 1-2 additional years work rights
- Regional study bonus
- Enhanced skilled migration prospects
- Access to regional visa pathways
Why the 485 Visa is Valuable
Strategic advantages for your permanent residency journey
Skilled Employment Points
Time on 485 visa counts toward skilled employment experience for points-tested visas
Regional Access
Move to regional areas to access additional state nomination points and opportunities
Professional Development
Gain Australian work experience and build professional networks
Permanent Residency Pathway
Bridge to skilled migration visas (189, 190, 491) or employer sponsorship
Important Considerations
Student Protests Impact
The tighter English requirements and course alignment rules led to campus protests by approximately 20,000 students in late 2024, highlighting the significant impact of these changes.
Planning Ahead
Use your 485 visa time strategically - gain relevant work experience, improve English scores, and research state nomination opportunities for your permanent residency pathway.
Regional Opportunities
Consider moving to regional areas during your 485 visa to access additional points and state nomination opportunities for skilled migration visas.
Professional Networks
Build professional relationships and seek mentorship opportunities that can lead to employer sponsorship or valuable references for your permanent residency application.