Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa
Recent graduates of an Australian qualification who want to live and work here after study.
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is an Australian student & graduate visa. This guide covers who the 485 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025–26 cost (≈ $2,300) and processing time (≈ 4–6 months (median ~35 days)), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions — in plain English.
Who the 485 visa is for
Recent graduates of an Australian qualification who want to live and work here after study.
No (temporary) — but the key bridge to PR. Use it to gain points, experience or sponsorship for 189/190/491/482/186.
Subclass 485 eligibility criteria
- A recent eligible qualification meeting the Australian Study Requirement
- Under the age limit (generally 35, with exceptions)
- Held an eligible student visa in the last 6 months
- Competent English
- A skills assessment for some streams
Subclass 485 cost & processing time (2025–26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is ≈ $2,300, with an indicative processing time of ≈ 4–6 months (median ~35 days). Figures are for 2025–26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore |
| Length of stay | ~18 months to 3 years (longer for some regional study) |
| Work rights | Unlimited |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | ≈ $2,300 |
| Processing time | ≈ 4–6 months (median ~35 days) |
| Pathway to PR | No (temporary) — but the key bridge to PR. Use it to gain points, experience or sponsorship for 189/190/491/482/186. |
Pathway & next steps
No (temporary) — but the key bridge to PR. Use it to gain points, experience or sponsorship for 189/190/491/482/186.
Many applicants also compare the 500 (Student visa), the 189 (Skilled Independent visa), the 190 (Skilled Nominated visa). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 485 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 485 visa — frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 485 visa cost?
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) base application charge is ≈ $2,300. Government charges are indicative for 2025–26 and usually change on 1 July — always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 485 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ≈ 4–6 months (median ~35 days). Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 485 visa lead to permanent residence?
No (temporary) — but the key bridge to PR. Use it to gain points, experience or sponsorship for 189/190/491/482/186.
Can I work on the subclass 485 visa?
Work rights on the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485): Unlimited.
Who can apply for the 485 visa?
Recent graduates of an Australian qualification who want to live and work here after study.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Australian Government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, charges and processing times change — confirm the current rules before you lodge:
- Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) — official Australian immigration authority