Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) – Post-Higher Education Work

Stay and work in Australia with your Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD qualification.

📖 Book A Free Consultation

🔎 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

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:

Full work rights for the visa duration

Stay up to 4 years depending on qualification level

Pathway to PR via skilled migration or employer sponsorship

Family members can be included

Flexibility to live anywhere in Australia

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

Choose the Correct Stream

Check Eligibility & Timing

Prepare Documents

English Test & AFP Check

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).

📚 Resources & Tools

Use these tools and guides to strengthen your application and plan your next steps

Download Subclass 485-Higher Education Stream Pack

Download

OVHC Health Insurance Explainer

Discover

❓Subclass 485 Graduate Work (Higher) Stream
Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between PHEW and Post-Study Work?

On 1 July 2024, this stream was renamed Post‑Higher Education Work. It replaces the old Post‑Study Work name.

How long can I stay?

Stay depends on your qualification: ~2 years for Bachelor’s, ~3 years for Master’s, ~4 years for PhD.

Can I include my family?

Yes, partner and dependent children can be included or added later as subsequent entrants.

Do I need to apply within 6 months?

Yes, you must lodge within 6 months of course completion and while holding (or having held) a Student visa.

Are remote English tests accepted?

No, only centre-based in-person tests are accepted.

Can I apply for another Student visa while holding a 485?

Generally no, DHA restricts visa hopping while holding a 485.

📞 Book a Free Consultation with a Migration Expert

Speak directly with a MARA-registered migration agent and have your Skilled Visa strategy explained step-by-step — at no cost.

Why Trust Visa Advisor?

Choosing the right migration partner can make all the difference.

Here’s why Visa Advisor is the trusted choice

Expert Guidance

MARA-registered agents with years of experience simplify your migration journey.

Transparent Pricing

Clear, upfront costs with no hidden fees—just honest advice.

Global Support

Flexible online and in-person consultations, wherever you are.

Smart Tools

Advanced visa finders and calculators to make decisions easier.

Proven Results

Trusted by clients for reliable, personalized migration support.

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.