Australia Visa – Work – Temporary Graduate Visa 485 – Graduate Stream

1. What is a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485. – Graduate Stream?


A Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Graduate Stream is a temporary visa that allows international students who have recently completed their studies in Australia to work and live in the country for a period of time. It is designed to provide an opportunity for graduates to gain practical experience in their field of study and improve their chances of qualifying for a permanent or longer-term visa.

2. Who is eligible for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Graduate Stream?

To be eligible for this visa, you must:

– Have graduated from an Australian educational institution within the last 6 months
– Hold an eligible qualification (bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, doctorate, or trade qualification)
– Have studied in Australia for at least 16 months
– Possess adequate English language proficiency
– Be under the age of 50 at the time of application
– Meet character and health requirements

3. How long is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Graduate Stream valid for?
The validity period of this visa depends on your level of study and qualifications:

– Bachelor’s degree or Master’s by coursework: up to 2 years
– Master’s by research: up to 3 years
– Doctoral degree: up to 4 years

4. Can I include my family members on my Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Graduate Stream application?

Yes, you can include certain family members in your application as dependants. This includes your spouse/partner and any dependent children under the age of 18.

5. What are the work rights with a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Graduate Stream?

With this visa, you have unrestricted work rights, which means you can work full-time, part-time or casual in any occupation or industry. You can also change employers as often as you like during the validity period of your visa.

6. Can I study while on a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Graduate Stream?

Yes, you can study in Australia while holding this visa. However, you will not be eligible for any government funding or subsidies for your studies.

7. Can I apply for permanent residency with a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Graduate Stream?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Graduate Stream does not lead directly to permanent residency. However, it can provide graduates with valuable work experience and improve their chances of qualifying for other visas that may lead to permanent residency, such as employer-sponsored or skilled visas.

8. What is the difference between the Post-Study Work stream and the Graduate Work stream of the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?

The Post-Study Work stream is for international students who have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher in Australia, while the Graduate Work stream is for those who have completed a trade qualification or diploma.

Additionally, the Post-Study Work stream allows graduates to work in any field related to their studies, while the Graduate Work stream requires them to work in an occupation on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.

9. Can I stay in Australia if my student visa expires before I graduate?

If your student visa will expire before you complete your studies and are eligible to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), you may be able to apply for a bridging visa that allows you to stay in Australia until a decision is made on your graduate visa application.

10. Where can I find more information about the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Graduate Stream?

You can find more information about this visa on the Department of Home Affairs website or by consulting with a registered migration agent.

2. Who is eligible to apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (485. – Graduate Stream?


The Temporary Graduate Visa (485) – Graduate Stream is intended for international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution and wish to gain work experience in their field of study. To be eligible to apply for this visa, the following criteria must be met:

1. Hold a valid student visa at the time of application or have held one within the last six months.
2. Have completed an eligible qualification from a registered Australian education provider.
3. Meet the English language proficiency requirements.
4. Be under 50 years of age.
5. Meet health and character requirements.
6. Meet specific health insurance requirements.
7. Satisfy the two-year study requirement, which means completing two academic years of study in Australia (minimum 92 weeks).
8. Have applied for and obtained relevant skills assessment for your nominated occupation (if applicable).
9. Have not previously held a Temporary Graduate Visa (485) or a Skilled Graduate Visa (476), unless it was as a dependent family member.

It is important to note that meeting these eligibility criteria does not guarantee the approval of the visa. Each application will be assessed on its individual merits, and additional conditions may also apply depending on your situation.

3. Can I apply for this visa from inside or outside Australia?

Both inside and outside Australia applicants may apply for a student visa.

4. Can I work while studying on this visa?
Yes, student visa holders are generally allowed to work up to 40 hours per fortnight while studying and unlimited hours during designated course breaks.

5. Can I extend my stay in Australia on this visa?
It is possible to extend your stay in Australia on a student visa if you meet the requirements, such as maintaining full-time enrollment and meeting financial obligations.

6. Am I eligible to bring my family members with me on this visa?
You may be able to bring certain family members with you as dependents on your student visa. This includes partners, children under 18, and certain other dependents under compelling circumstances.

7. How long does the application process take?
The processing time for a student visa can vary depending on individual circumstances and the country of application. It is recommended to apply at least three months before your intended travel date to allow for sufficient processing time.

8. What happens if my course will finish after my current visa expires?
If your course will not be completed before your current visa expires, you will need to apply for a new visa or an extension of your current one. It is important to maintain valid immigration status at all times.

9. Do I need health insurance for this visa?
Yes, all international students are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay in Australia.

10. Are there any conditions attached to this visa?
There are several conditions that come with a student visa, including meeting course requirements and maintaining satisfactory academic progress, living costs, working restrictions, etc. You can find more information about these conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website or through your education provider.

4. Is there an age limit for applying for the Temporary Graduate Visa (485)?


Yes, applicants must be under the age of 50 at the time of application for the Temporary Graduate Visa (485).

5. Do I need to have a job offer to apply for this visa?

No, you do not need to have a job offer to apply for this visa. However, having a job offer can increase your chances of approval as it shows that you have the necessary skills and experience to contribute to the Australian workforce.

6. Can I bring my family with me on this visa?

Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children in your visa application. They will be granted the same visa duration as you and have the same work and study rights.

7. Can I change employers while on this visa?

Yes, you can change employers while on this visa. However, your new employer must be an approved sponsor and the new position must be within the same occupation that you were nominated for in your original application.

8. Is there a limit to how long I can stay on this visa?

No, there is no limit to how long you can stay on this visa as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria. This is a permanent residency visa and allows for indefinite stay in Australia.

9. Can I apply for Australian citizenship after holding this visa?

Yes, if you are granted permanent residency under the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme Visa and meet all other requirements, you may be eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after completing four years of lawful residence in Australia.

10. Are there any age restrictions for applying for this visa?

There are no specific age restrictions for applying for this visa. However, all applicants must meet health and character requirements regardless of their age.

6. How long does the Temporary Graduate Visa (485. allow me to stay in Australia?


The Temporary Graduate Visa (485) allows you to stay in Australia for 18 months if you have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree, and up to four years if you have completed a PhD. The exact length of the visa will depend on the type of qualification you have completed and other factors such as whether you have studied in a regional area or if you have undertaken any bridging courses.

7. Am I allowed to work in any job with this visa?


No, the E-2 visa only allows you to work in the specific business or investment that it was granted for. You are not allowed to work in any other job without obtaining separate work authorization from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). However, your spouse may be eligible for employment authorization as a dependent on your E-2 visa.

8. Can I include my family members in my application for the Temporary Graduate Visa (485)?


Yes, you can include certain family members in your application for the Temporary Graduate Visa (485). This includes your spouse or de facto partner, and your dependent children. However, they must meet certain criteria in order to be included in your application.

Spouse or De Facto Partner: Your spouse must be legally married to you, or you must have been in a de facto relationship with them for at least 12 months prior to lodging your application for the Temporary Graduate Visa (485). They must also be able to provide evidence of their relationship to you.

Dependent Children: Your dependent children must be under the age of 18 and unmarried. If they are over 18, they may still be eligible if they are dependent on you financially and have been so for at least 12 months before lodging your application.

In order to include these family members in your application, you will need to provide proof of their identity, their relationship to you, and their financial dependency (if applicable).

It should also be noted that including family members in your application may affect processing times and visa fees. It is important to carefully consider whether you want to include them before lodging your application.

9. Is English language proficiency required for this visa?


Yes, English language proficiency is required for this visa. Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirement of Competent English (equivalent to a score of 6 on all four components – speaking, listening, reading, and writing – of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test). Exceptions may be made for certain occupations or if the applicant is from a designated English-speaking country.

10. What are the financial requirements for this visa?

The financial requirements for a visa can vary depending on the type of visa and the country you are applying to. Generally, you will need to show proof that you have enough funds to cover your expenses during your stay, including accommodation, transportation, and living expenses. This can be demonstrated through bank statements, pay stubs or sponsorship letters. Some countries also require applicants to pay a visa application fee. It is important to check with the specific embassy or consulate for the country you are applying to for their specific financial requirements.

11. Do I need to provide health insurance coverage while on the Temporary Graduate Visa (485)?


No, health insurance is not a requirement for the Temporary Graduate Visa (485). However, it is recommended to have health insurance during your stay in Australia as medical treatment without insurance can be expensive.

12. Is there a processing time for this visa?


Yes, there is a processing time for the Schengen visa. The processing time can vary depending on the country you are applying to, but it usually takes between 2-3 weeks. It is recommended to apply for the visa at least 3 months before your planned travel date.

13. What are the reasons that could lead to my application being refused?


There are many possible reasons why an application could be refused. Some common reasons include:

1. Incomplete or incorrect information: If you fail to provide all the required information on your application or if the information provided is inaccurate, your application may be refused.

2. Failure to meet eligibility requirements: Each application has specific eligibility criteria that must be met in order for it to be approved. If you do not meet these requirements, your application will likely be refused.

3. Concerns about immigration intentions: If the immigration officer reviewing your application has reason to believe that you intend to stay in the country permanently or engage in activities that are not allowed under your visa type, they may refuse your application.

4. Previous immigration violations: If you have a history of immigration violations such as overstaying a previous visa or working without authorization, this could lead to your current application being refused.

5. Criminal record: Depending on the severity of the offense, having a criminal record can result in your application being rejected.

6. Insufficient funds: Many applications require proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in the country. If you cannot demonstrate this, it could lead to a refusal.

7. Inadmissibility: Certain factors such as health issues or past involvement in criminal or terrorist activities can make an individual deemed “inadmissible” and therefore their application will likely be denied.

Ultimately, the specific reasons for a refusal will vary depending on each individual case and the specific regulations and requirements of the country where you are applying for entry.

14. Can I study while on the Temporary Graduate Visa (485)?


Yes, you can study while on the Temporary Graduate Visa (485). The main purpose of this visa is to provide international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution with work experience in their field of study. However, you are also allowed to study in Australia as long as it does not interfere with your work commitments.

15. Will I have access to Medicare while on this visa?

As a temporary visa holder in Australia, you may be eligible for Medicare under certain circumstances. The availability of Medicare will depend on your country of origin and the type of visa you hold.

Some temporary visas allow access to Medicare, while others require you to maintain private health insurance during your stay in Australia. For example, if you are from a country that has a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with Australia, such as the UK or New Zealand, you may be eligible for some basic medical services under Medicare.

If your visa requires you to maintain private health insurance, it is important to have adequate coverage before arriving in Australia. Otherwise, you may need to pay for any necessary medical treatment out of pocket.

You can check your eligibility for Medicare by visiting the official Australian Government website or by contacting the Department of Home Affairs. It is also recommended to consult with a registered migration agent or healthcare professional for personalized information regarding Medicare access on your specific visa.

16. What happens if I get a job offer after my 485 visa expires?

If your 485 visa expires and you receive a job offer, you will need to apply for a new visa that is appropriate for the job offer. Depending on your circumstances, this could be a different type of temporary visa or a permanent visa. You should consult with the Department of Home Affairs or an immigration lawyer for advice on the best course of action in your particular situation. It is important to note that if you continue working after your visa has expired without obtaining a new visa, you may be in breach of your immigration status and could face consequences such as deportation or being barred from re-entering Australia in the future.

17. Can I travel outside of Australia while on the Temporary Graduate Visa (485)?

Yes, you can travel outside of Australia while on the Temporary Graduate Visa (485). This visa allows multiple entries and exits, so you are free to leave and re-enter Australia as many times as you like during your visa validity period. However, please note that your time spent outside of Australia will not count towards the requirement for permanent residency under the Skilled Regional (subclass 489) visa.

18. Can I extend my stay on this visa after it expires?


It depends on the specific type of visa and the country you are in. It is important to check with the appropriate government agency responsible for visas or consult an immigration lawyer for advice on how to extend your stay. In some cases, extension may be possible by applying for a different type of visa or through a renewal process. It is important to follow all rules and regulations regarding visas and extensions to avoid any potential legal issues.

19.Can I include dependent children in my application for the 485 visa?


Yes, you can include your dependent children in your application for the 485 visa as long as they meet the eligibility criteria. Dependent children must be under 18 years of age and not married or in a de facto relationship. They must also be financially dependent on you, or physically or mentally incapacitated and unable to support themselves.

20.What is the difference between Post-Study Work stream and Graduate Work stream options of Subclass 485 – Temporary Graduate Visa?


The main difference between the Post-Study Work stream and Graduate Work stream options of Subclass 485 – Temporary Graduate Visa is the eligibility criteria for each stream.

Post-Study Work stream:
– Available for international students who have completed at least two years of study in Australia (on a degree, diploma, or trade qualification) in the last six months.
– Applicants can stay and work in Australia for up to four years, depending on their highest qualification.
– There are no restrictions on the field of study or occupation.

Graduate Work stream:
– Available for international students who have completed a trade qualification or higher education degree (at least two academic years) in a related field in Australia within the last six months.
– Applicants can stay and work in Australia for 18 months.
– The occupation must be on the relevant skilled occupation list (SOL).

Other differences may include:
– Requirements for English proficiency and health insurance may vary between streams.
– Family members can be included in applications under both streams, but there may be different requirements and restrictions.
– The Post-Study Work stream may offer a longer stay period and more flexibility in terms of study and employment opportunities.