If you’re planning to build your career in Australia after completing your studies, your first major step is securing a Post-Study Work Visa in Australia. Officially known as the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), this visa allows international students to stay back and gain valuable work experience after graduation.
At Edwest Global, one of the Best Study Abroad Overseas Education Consultants, we help students plan their future abroad—from course selection to visa guidance and beyond. The key to success is planning early so you know exactly what to expect once your course ends.
In this blog, let’s explore the essentials of the Post-Study Work Permit in Australia — including eligibility, types, application process, and the latest 2026 updates — so you can make informed decisions for your future career in Australia.
Overview of Post-Study Work Visa in Australia
The Post-Study Work Visa is designed for international graduates who wish to continue living in Australia and gain hands-on professional experience after completing their studies. Falling under the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), this visa provides work rights for a specific period based on your qualification level.
Unlike a student visa, this one is focused entirely on helping you build your career in Australia — often serving as a potential pathway to permanent residency.
Types of Post-Study Work Visas in Australia
✅ 1. Post-Vocational Education Work Stream (Graduate Work Stream)
This visa is designed for students who have completed a diploma, trade qualification, or certificate in Australia. Your course must align with an occupation listed on the Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), and a positive skills assessment is required.
- Stay duration: Up to 18 months
- Purpose: Gain hands-on technical work experience in your trade or vocational field
✅ 2. Post-Higher Education Work Stream (Post-Study Work Stream)
Ideal for those who have completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from a recognized Australian institution.
- Duration: 2 years for bachelor’s, 3 years for master’s, and up to 4 years for doctoral degrees
- Benefits: Longer work opportunities and eligibility for skilled migration programs
✅ 3. Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream
Graduates who studied at a regional campus can extend their stay by 1–2 years, depending on their study and living location.
- Purpose: Encourages graduates to contribute to regional Australia’s workforce and economy
Eligibility Criteria for Post-Study Work Visa in Australia
Before applying for the Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485), ensure that you meet all eligibility conditions.
- Qualification Requirement: You must have completed a degree, diploma, or trade qualification in Australia.
- Course Duration: The program must be at least 2 academic years and registered under CRICOS.
- Visa Status: Hold a valid Australia Student Visa during your studies.
- Application Period: Apply within 6 months of course completion while in Australia.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrate through IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
- Health & Character: Meet the Australian Government’s health and police clearance requirements.
Application Process for Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to make your application smoother — something Edwest Global specializes in guiding students through:
- Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet all study and visa requirements.
- Prepare Documents: Include your passport, academic transcripts, completion letter, English test results, and Overseas Health Cover (OVHC).
- Apply via ImmiAccount: Log in to the Department of Home Affairs website to submit your online application.
- Pay Application Fee: The fee varies depending on the visa stream.
- Submit Biometrics (if required): Attend any health or biometric appointments promptly.
- Await Visa Decision: Processing times can differ — plan early before your student visa expires.
- Receive Your Visa Grant: Once approved, you’ll get your visa conditions and validity details.
Post-Study Work Visa Duration for International Students
Qualification LevelWork Rights (Major Cities)Work Rights (Regional Areas)Bachelor’s Degree2 yearsUp to 3 yearsMaster’s Degree3 yearsUp to 4 yearsDoctoral DegreeUp to 4 yearsUp to 6 years
Special Note: Indian graduates benefit from extended stay rights under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA).
Application Cost for Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Visa StreamApplication Fee (AUD)Post-Vocational Education Work StreamFrom 2,300Post-Higher Education Work StreamFrom 2,300Second Post-Higher Education Work StreamFrom 905
Note: Always verify the latest fees on the Department of Home Affairs website or consult Edwest Global, your trusted overseas education expert.
Latest Updates for Post-Study Work Visa (2026)
- From December 2024, graduate qualifications must closely align with Australia’s Skilled Occupation List.
- The Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482) now replaces the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa — creating new opportunities for 485 holders.
- Graduates studying in regional areas continue to enjoy additional stay benefits.
At Edwest Global, our visa experts keep students updated with the latest policy revisions to ensure a smooth transition from student to professional life.
Conclusion
Understanding Australia’s Post-Study Work Visa system is crucial for international students aiming to build a successful career. The process may seem complex, but with the right guidance from the Best Study Abroad Overseas Education Consultants like Edwest Global, your path to Australian employment and even permanent residency becomes smoother.
Plan early, stay informed, and let Edwest Global help you every step of the way — from admissions to visa and beyond.
FAQs
Q1. Do I need a job offer to apply for the Post-Study Work Visa? No, you can apply without a job offer. The visa allows you to live and work freely in Australia after completing your studies.
Q2. Can I extend my Post-Study Work Visa? You can’t extend it directly, but you may qualify for other visa pathways such as skilled migration or regional extensions.
Q3. Is health insurance mandatory? Yes. Maintaining Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC) is compulsory for the visa duration.
Q4. Can I switch to Permanent Residency later? Yes, many graduates transition to permanent residency through skilled or employer-sponsored visas.
Q5. How soon should I apply after graduation? Apply within 6 months of course completion to maintain lawful status.