What Is the Subclass 485?
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) allows international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily. It is the most common first step for Nepali graduates pursuing Australian permanent residency.
Streams
- Graduate Work stream: For those whose qualification is on the skilled occupation list and who have a skills assessment. Grants 18 months to 5 years depending on your trade/profession.
- Post-Study Work stream: For those who completed a bachelor, masters, or doctoral degree in Australia. Grants 2–6 years depending on degree level and whether you studied in a regional area.
Post-Study Work Duration
- Bachelor's degree: 2 years (+ 1 year for regional study)
- Bachelor's Honours: 2 years
- Masters by coursework: 3 years (+ 1 year for regional)
- Masters by research: 3 years
- Doctoral degree: 4 years
When to Apply
Apply within 6 months of receiving your final results (official completion notification). This is strict — missing the 6-month window means losing eligibility. Start the application as soon as your results are confirmed.
Requirements
- Studied in Australia for at least 2 academic years (16 months study in Australia including online study done in Australia)
- Qualification from a registered Australian institution
- Under 50 years of age
- Meet English language requirements
- Health insurance (OSHC for duration of 485, or OVHC if dependent joins)
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