The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is an essential opportunity for international students who have recently completed their studies in Australia. After completion of your study, you may want to stay a little longer there to explore job opportunities. This visa is commonly known as the 485 visa and it allows graduates to remain in Australia temporarily to gain valuable work experience related to their field of study. The 485 visa plays a crucial role as it opens a broader path towards employment.

What is the 485 Visa?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is designed specifically for international students who have completed a qualification from an Australian educational institution. It allows graduates to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily after finishing their studies.

General Eligibility Criteria:

• You must be 35 years of age or under. Exceptions may also apply.
• Hold an eligible visa.
• Have held a student visa in the past 6 months.
• Hold a qualification relevant to an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (varies by stream).
• English language is also required which can vary depending on stream and country of citizenship.
• Have a recent qualification from a CRICOS-registered course
• Meet other health and character requirement

Streams Under the 485 Visa

1. Post-Vocational Education Work Stream

This visa is designed for international students who have recently completed their studies at an Australian university with at least one associate degree, diploma or trade qualification in the 6 months immediately before the day you apply. You can be under 50 years of age when you apply if you hold a Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport and may stay for 5 years. The visa permits temporary residence and allows the individuals to live, pursue further education, and work in Australia for up to 18 months and can stay with their family.

2. Post-Higher Education Work Stream

You can apply for a visa under the Post-Higher Education Work stream if you have recently graduated with a degree from an Australian institution. For this visa you need a degree level qualification or higher. This visa allows you to live, work and study in Australia and you can also bring your family. You may be eligible to remain in Australia for a period ranging from 2-3 years, based on the level of your qualification. Meanwhile, individuals holding Hong Kong or British National Overseas passports can extend their stay for up to 5 years. You must be 35 years of age or under when you apply for this visa. You can be under 50 years of age when you apply if you:

1. Are using a Masters (research) or Doctoral Degree (PhD) to meet the Temporary Graduate visa study requirement, or
2. hold a Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport.

3. Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream

This visa is for Temporary Graduates holding a Post-Higher Education Work, Post-Study Work or Replacement visa with a degree from an Australian institution located in a regional area. This visa will let you live, work and study in Australia temporarily with your family.

The duration of stay ranges from one to two years, depending on:

• The regional location of the institution where you earned the qualification that made you eligible for your first Temporary Graduate visa.
  
• Or the regional area where you lived while holding that first Temporary Graduate visa in the Post-Higher Education work, Post Study Work or Replacement Stream.
  
• Or if you are a Temporary Graduate visa holder under the replacement stream.
  

You must be 35 years of age or under when you apply. You can be under 50 years of age when you apply if you:

• used a Masters (research) or Doctoral Degree (PhD) to meet the requirements for the grant of your Post-Higher Education Work or Post-Study Work stream visa, or
• hold a Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport.

Benefits of the 485 Visa

• Work Experience: Build practical skills and gain real-world experience in Australia.
• Pathway to PR: Work experience gained can boost your eligibility for skilled migration or permanent residency.
• Career Exploration: The 485 visa gives you the freedom to explore different career options in Australia.

How Mirai Global Can Help

Mirai Global Education & Visa Services understand the importance of the 485 visa in your post-study journey. So we provide thorough guidance from starting to end. Our team first communicates with you about your requirements and offers:

• We guide you through every stage of your 485 visa application.
  
• We help in organizing and verifying your documents to meet visa requirements.
  
• You will get Career advice, further study options, and permanent residency planning tailored to your profile.

Whether you’re just graduating or are ready to submit your application, we’re here to ensure a smooth and successful visa process. Just give us a call and we are ready to help you with any kind of help related to your education and visa services.

Conclusion

The 485 visa is a powerful stepping stone for international graduates who are seeking to live, work, and grow professionally in Australia. It opens doors to a future full of opportunities. You can also expect potential permanent residency through this visa.

Do you need assistance with your 485 visa application? Then contact Mirai Global Education and Visa Services today for a free consultation and expert advice for your unique journey. We wish you all the best for your future endeavors, and we will be more than happy to be a part of it!