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Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)
Post-Vocational Education Work stream
The subclass 485 post-study work visa (post-vocational education work stream) lets international vocational graduates stay and work full-time in Australia for up to 18 months – the perfect launchpad to permanent residency.
Why Choose Edvise Hub?
The subclass 485 visa, officially known as the Temporary Graduate Visa, is Australia’s most popular post-study pathway. The post-vocational education work stream (previously called Graduate Work stream) is specifically designed for international students who complete diploma, advanced diploma, or trade qualifications in Australia.
This stream allows graduates to live and work full-time without employer sponsorship, giving them valuable Australian work experience that significantly boosts future permanent residency applications.
Key Features of the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
Latest Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 485 visa under the post-vocational education work stream, you must meet ALL these criteria:
- Completed a CRICOS-registered course of at least 92 weeks (2 academic years)
- Studied a Diploma, Advanced Diploma, or trade qualification
- Your qualification must lead to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
- Studied at least 16 calendar months physically in Australia
- Held a student visa in the last 6 months
- Be under 35 years old at time of application
- Achieve Competent English (IELTS 6.5 overall / no band below 5.5 or equivalent)
- Meet health and character requirements
- Apply while in Australia
Important: No skills assessment is required for this stream (removed since July 2022).
Fahad Shamim
Migration & Education Consultant
MARA Registered
MARN 2619225
QEAC
G12906
As a Migration & Education Consultant, I provide expert guidance on Australian visas and international education, helping clients navigate both with ease.
Current Processing Times & Success Rates
Application Fees (Current)
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Complete your 2-year vocational course in Australia
- Receive your completion letter and final transcript
- Obtain English test results (valid within required timeframe)
- Gather police clearances (if required)
- Create or log into ImmiAccount
- Lodge Form 485 online while in Australia
- Pay the visa fee and receive bridging visa if needed
- Complete health examinations when requested
- Receive visa grant via email
Top Nationalities Receiving This Visa
Common Reasons for Refusal (Avoid These!)
Benefits That Make This Visa Worth It
- Full work rights – no 40-hour fortnightly limit
- Work for any employer in any location
- Gain points for skilled migration (5–15 extra points for Australian work experience)
- Include partner (who gets full work rights) and children
- Access Medicare (reciprocal health care)
- Travel in and out of Australia unlimited times
- Average starting salary for vocational graduates: AUD 58,000–75,000
Pathway to Permanent Residency
The subclass 485 post-study work visa is one of the strongest stepping stones to PR:
- General Skilled Migration (189/190/491) – gain 5–15 points for Australian experience
- Employer-sponsored visas (186/482 to 186)
- 35% of regional PR grants now come from former 485 visa holders
Conclusion
The post-vocational education work stream of the subclass 485 visa remains the smartest and most affordable way for vocational graduates to stay in Australia after studies. With full work rights, no sponsorship needed, and a direct path to permanent residency, thousands choose this Australia post graduate visa equivalent every year.
Start preparing your application today – the sooner you lodge, the sooner you can begin building your Australian career.
FAQs
Q: How long can I stay on the post-vocational education work stream?
A: Up to 18 months from grant date (5 years if you hold a Hong Kong or BNO passport).
Q: Do I need a skills assessment for the 485 visa post-vocational stream?
A: No – skills assessments were removed for this stream in July 2022.
Q: Can my partner work full-time if included on my subclass 485 visa?
A: Yes – partners receive full, unrestricted work rights.
Q: What English score do I need?
A: Minimum IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 5.5 (or PTE 58, TOEFL iBT 83, etc.).
Q: Can I apply for the 485 visa from outside Australia?
A: No – you must be in Australia when you lodge the application.
Q: Does this visa count toward permanent residency?
A: Yes – Australian work experience gained on the 485 visa adds valuable points for skilled migration visas.
Q: How soon after finishing my course should I apply?
A: Apply as soon as you receive your completion letter – you have 6 months from course completion date.
Expert guidance for your migration and study abroad journey. We specialize in navigating complex visa pathways to secure your future seamlessly.
MARN Registration: 2619225
QEAC Graduate: 12906
Skilled Migration
- 189 Skilled Independent
- 190 Skilled Nominated
- 887 Skilled Regional
- 491 Skilled Regional
- 191 Skilled Regional
