Visa Overview
The Post‑Higher Education Work stream is for Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral graduates from Australian institutions. From 1 July 2024, it replaced the old Post‑Study Work name.
Key Benefits:
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Post-Higher Education Work
Stay and work in Australia with your Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD qualification.
🔎 Visa Snapshot
Visa/Subclass Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) — Post‑Higher Education Work (PHEW)
Who it suits Recent international graduates
Stay period (typical) See ‘Fees & Processing’ section
Work rights Full work rights
Study allowance Permitted
Location rules No special regional requirement
Key risks Age limit, English test validity, late lodgement, stream selection
Eligibility Details
Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD graduates are eligible.
Age limit 35, or 50 for Master’s by research/PhD and HK/BNO passport holders.
Stay aligns with the qualification level.
Eligible for future skilled or regional PR pathways.
🔍 Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for this visa involves a structured journey. Follow these high-level steps
1
Choose the Correct Stream
2
Check Eligibility & Timing
3
Prepare Documents
4
English Test & AFP Check
5
Arrange Health Insurance
Mandatory Requirements
(Must Meet & Nice-to-Haves)
You must meet all mandatory requirements or your visa will be refused. The nice-to-haves are not compulsory but can strengthen your application.
🤝 Must Meet
Age: Age: 35 or under at application (50 for Master’s by research, PhD, or HK/BNO passport holders)
Visa status: Hold an eligible visa and have held a Student visa in the last 6 months.
Australian study requirement: Completed a CRICOS-registered course relevant to this stream.
English proficiency: Meet Subclass 485 English score using an in-person accepted test within the validity period.
Health & character: Meet standard DHA criteria.
Health insurance: Hold OVHC from application through grant.
AFP check: Proof of AFP National Police Check application.
Correct stream: You cannot switch after applying.
🎯 Nice-to-Haves
Polished CV and LinkedIn profile aligned with your qualification.
Evidence of employment opportunities or job offers.
Regional job search plan if aiming for PR.
Early bookings for English tests or medicals.
Visa Fees & Processing Time
| Type | Details & Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| 🧾 Government Visa Fee | Approx. AUD 2,300 (base) |
| 👥 Addtional Applicant 18+ | AUD 1,150 |
| 👥 Addtional Applicant below 18 | AUD 580 |
| ⏳ Processing Time | 2 to 3 Months (90% of Application) |
Family Inclusion
Explain who can be included and under what conditions.
Partner and dependent children can be included at lodgement.
Family must meet health and character requirements.
Subsequent entrant option available after grant.
Common Mistakes & Red Flags
Highlight the main pitfalls that lead to refusals.
Wrong stream selection.
Missed 6-month deadline.
Expired or invalid English test.
No AFP check evidence.
Letting OVHC lapse.
Relying on ineligible courses (e.g., enabling or ELICOS).
❓Subclass 485 Graduate Work (Higher) Stream
Frequently Asked Questions
On 1 July 2024, this stream was renamed Post‑Higher Education Work. It replaces the old Post‑Study Work name.
Stay depends on your qualification: ~2 years for Bachelor’s, ~3 years for Master’s, ~4 years for PhD.
Yes, partner and dependent children can be included or added later as subsequent entrants.
Yes, you must lodge within 6 months of course completion and while holding (or having held) a Student visa.
No, only centre-based in-person tests are accepted.
Generally no, DHA restricts visa hopping while holding a 485.
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Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.