Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
The Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) is a 5-year, points-based visa for skilled workers nominated by a state or sponsored by a relative in regional Australia.
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About the 485 Visa
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is designed for recent graduates from Australian institutions, offering them the opportunity to live, work, and study in Australia on a temporary basis. This visa is available under two streams: the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream and the Post-Higher Education Work Stream.
Who can apply for the 485 Visa?

485 visa – Post-Vocational
Education Work Stream
This is for international students who graduate with the skills and qualifications related to a job on the relevant occupations list. This visa allows you to work in Australia for 18 months from the date of grant, with Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders eligible for a stay of up to 5 years.
- Be under 35 years old (exceptions apply).
- Nominate an occupation on the Medium and Long Term Strategic Skills List. Refer to our Skilled Occupations List to find which occupations apply.
- Hold a degree, diploma, or trade qualification that is CRICOS-registered and relevant to the nominated occupation.
- Obtain a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
- Meet the Australian study requirement.
- Apply for the visa within 6 months of course completion.
- Be in Australia at the time of lodgement.
- Meet the English language requirements.
- Have health insurance.
- Satisfy health and character requirements.
485 visa – Post-Vocational
Education Work Stream
This visa is for international students who have graduated with a higher education degree, regardless of the field of study. The visa is valid for 2 to 3 years, depending on the highest qualification you obtained in Australia. Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders may stay for 5 years.
- Be under 35 years old (exceptions apply).
- Hold a degree or higher qualification that is CRICOS-registered.
- Meet the Australian study requirement.
- Apply for the visa within 6 months of course completion.
- Be in Australia at the time of lodgement.
- Meet the English language requirements.
- Have health insurance.
- Satisfy health and character criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Determine Eligibility:
- Assess which stream you are eligible to apply under.
- Prepare Necessary Documents:
- Gather all required documents, including proof of identity, academic transcripts, English language test results, health insurance, police checks, etc.
- Lodge the Visa Application:
- Submit your application online through the Department of Home Affairs portal. Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays.
- Await Visa Decision:
- The processing time for the 485 visa can vary.
The time it takes to process the 485 Visa depends on various factors. For current visa processing times please refer to the information on the Department of Home Affairs website.
The time it takes to process the 491 Visa depends on various factors. The skills assessment process can range from 10 days to several months, depending on the assessing authority. Depending on your occupation and points score, you could receive an invitation to apply within days or it may take several months. Invitations are issued to applicants with the highest points in their occupation. For current visa processing times please refer to the information on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Department of Home Affairs Visa Application Fees: $2,235 (primary applicant), $1,115 (each secondary applicant over 18), $560 (each secondary applicant under 18).
- Other Costs: Skills assessment, English language tests, health examinations, police checks, translations, etc., as applicable.
- Professional Fees: Contact us for a fee quote at 0415419414.
At Better Life Migration, we offer comprehensive assistance throughout your 485 visa application process, including:
- Eligibility Assessment: Evaluating your qualifications and circumstances to determine the appropriate visa stream and your eligibility.
- Document Preparation: Guiding you in compiling and organising all necessary documents to ensure a complete and accurate application.
- Application Preparation and Lodgement: Preparing and lodging your visa application.
- Post-Lodgement Support: Providing ongoing support and updates throughout the processing period, addressing any concerns or additional requirements that may arise.
Benefits of the 485 visa

Study in Australia
Continue your education in Australia.

Work in Australia
Gain valuable work experience in your field.

Travel
Travel in and out of Australia freely while your visa is valid.
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