skilled migration visa australia, 189 subclass visa australia - VisaAdvisor

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

Extend your stay in Australia by continuing to live and work in a regional area.

️ 🧮 Check My Eligibility

🔎 Visa Snapshot

Visa/Subclass Temporary Graduate -Subclass 485—Second Post‑Higher Education Work

Who it suits Recent international graduates

Stay period (typical) See ‘Fees & Processing’ section

Work rights Full work rights

Study allowance Permitted

Location rules Regional requirement applies

Key risks Age limit, English test validity, late lodgement, stream selection

Visa Overview

Explain in plain English what this stream is, who it applies to, and why it matters. The Second Post‑Higher Education Work stream extends stay for graduates who studied and lived in regional Australia after holding a first 485 visa.

Key Benefits:

Additional stay of 1–2 years

Full work and study rights

Encourages graduates to remain in regional areas

Include family members

Flexibility to live anywhere in Australia

Eligibility Details

Outline additional rules and technical conditions that applicants must be aware of.

Must have held a first 485 in the PHEW stream.

Study and graduation must be from a regional institution.

Continued residence in a designated regional area is required.

Stay is generally 1–2 years.

Age rules align with the first PHEW stream.

🔍 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
6
Complete Online Application (ImmiAccount)
7
Pay Fees & Await Decision

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

Item Amount / Details
Base Application Charge AUD 2,300
Additional Applicant (18+) AUD 1,150
Additional Applicant (<18) AUD 580
Processing Time TProcessing time varies, typically several months depending on caseload and completeness.
Estimate your total fees using the Official Visa Pricing Estimator

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 Migration Pack
Download Subclass 485 Migration Pack
Download
Regional Living Evidence Checklist (PDF)
Regional Living Evidence Checklist (PDF)
Discover

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

You must have held a first Subclass 485 Post‑Higher Education Work visa and studied in a regional area. 

1–2 years, depending on the regional location category and qualification. 

Yes, you must show evidence of residence in a designated regional area. 

Yes, partner and children can be included or added later.

Yes, 35 (or 50 for research graduates and HK/BNO passport holders). 

No, you can work full-time during your visa period. 

📞 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.

  • 100% Free
  • No Obligation
  • Confidential Advice
📖 Book a Free Consultation

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.