The Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 lets recent international graduates live work and study in Australia for a limited time. It is a bridge between student life and skilled work or even permanent residency
Streams of the Visa
Post Higher Education Work Stream
- For graduates with a degree or higher from an Australian CRICOS registered institution
- Stay can be two to three years depending on the qualification
- Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders can stay up to five years
Post Vocational Education Work Stream
- For those with an associate degree diploma or trade qualification linked to an occupation on the skilled list
- Usually allows a stay of up to 18 months
Second Post Higher Education Work Stream
- For Temporary Graduates with a regional qualification who already held a prior 485 visa
- Stay ranges from one to two years based on where you studied or currently live
Also Read: Australia 6 Months Temporary Work Visa Process 2025
Eligibility Rules
- Must be 35 years or under at the time of application with some exceptions
- Must have held a student visa in the last six months
- Your qualification must be from a CRICOS registered course
- You cannot switch streams after applying
2025 Fee Update
From February 1 2025 the visa application fee rose by 15 percent to AUD 2235 so it is important to budget for this
New English Language Requirements from August 7 2025
From 7 August 2025 new English test options and score requirements apply
Newly Accepted English Tests
- CELPIP General
- LANGUAGECERT Academic
- MET Michigan English Test
These join the existing IELTS PTE TOEFL iBT OET and Cambridge Advanced tests
Required Minimum Scores for the Standard Stream
| Test | Overall or Total |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 with all bands at least 5.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 81 |
| PTE Academic | 55 |
| OET | 1310 |
| LANGUAGECERT | 67 |
| MET | 58 |
| CELPIP | 8 overall with all parts at least 6 |
Transitional Arrangements
If you took an approved English test between 7 August 2024 and 6 August 2025 you can still use it even if your application is lodged after 7 August 2025
Exemptions
You do not need an English test if you hold a passport from
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Canada
- New Zealand
- Republic of Ireland
Why These Changes Matter
- Higher fees mean you must plan your budget
- More English test options give you flexibility but you must meet the score requirement
- Stream choice determines visa duration and eligibility
- Always check age and study history before you apply
Quick Tips for Applicants
- Choose the correct stream based on your qualification level
- Make sure you meet the 35 year age limit
- Take an approved English test on time unless you are exempt
- Apply early to avoid delays
- Budget for the AUD 2235 application fee
- Submit your application through ImmiAccount and keep checking for updates
Summary of Key Dates
- February 1 2025 Visa fee increased to AUD 2235
- August 7 2025 New English test rules started
Conclusion
The Temporary Graduate Visa Subclass 485 2025 is a key step for many international graduates who want to stay in Australia after study. With new fees and English rules it is important to be prepared. The right stream age eligibility and English test timing all matter. Plan well and keep your documents ready for a smooth application process
