Post Study Work Visa Australia (Subclass 485): Benefits, Eligibility & Process

Embarking on your educational journey in Australia offers not only access to a world class education experience, but also the opportunity to gain valuable work experience through the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) - allowing international graduates to remain in Australia temporarily to work after completing their studies. 

As of December 31, 2024 the 485 visa Australia has seen significant growth with visa holders increasing from 89,000 into 2019 to 195,000, reflecting Australia's commitment to retaining skilled talent. Join us as we navigate through the nuances of the Post Study Work Visa Australia to help maximise your career prospects in Aussie land. 

What is a Post-Study Work Visa in Australia?

The Post Study Work Visa Australia is a visa type for international students, who have completed their education in universities in Australia. The 485 subclass visa allows students to stay and work in Australia temporarily to gain valuable work experience in Australia.

Based on the level of education, students are permitted to stay for 2 to 3 years in Australia, experience work life along with possibility to gain eligibility to Australia PR. 

Types of Post-Study Work Visa in Australia

Australia offers various post-study work visa options for international students, each catering to different circumstances:

• Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) - Graduate Workstream

Ideal for those with skills closely aligned with in-demand Australian jobs, this subclass 485 visa Australia allows an 18-month stay, including the option to bring family members. Application must be made within 6 months of completing studies.

• Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) - Post-Study Workstream 

The most popular choice for post-study work, this 485 visa Australian is available to recent graduates from prestigious Australian institutions, regardless of their field of study. The duration ranges from 2 to 4 years, and family members can be included. Application should be made within 6 months after completing studies.

Eligibility Requirements for Post-Study Work Visa Australia

The post study permit in Australia allows graduates to explore employment opportunities in Australia. Further let us explore the Australia post-study work visa requirements for gaining eligibility which include the following criteria:

1. Academic Qualifications Requirements

Applicants must have completed a higher education (bachelors, masters, or doctoral), on a full time basis from a recognised Australian university.

*Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector qualifications do not qualify.

2. Minimum Study Duration in Australia

Candidates must have completed at least 2 academic years (92 weeks) of study in Australia, on a valid Australia Student Visa. The studies must be conducted at one or more CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students) registered institutions.

3. English Language Proficiency

Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency by meeting the minimum score requirements in one of the recognised exams:

4. Age Criteria

Applicants must be between 18 and 50 years of age at the time of application

5. Health and Character Requirements

Candidates must meet health standards, including medical examination for Australia. Police clearance is also required to be submitted by candidates to satisfy character requirements for living and working in Australia.

6. Visa Status and Application Timing

At the time of application, candidates must either hold a student Visa or have held one within the last 6 months. Applications must be submitted within six months of course completion.

Documents Required for Post Study Work Visa Australia 

Now that you are familiar with the Eligibility requirements for your post-study work visa application in Australia, moving further let us list down the Australia 485 visa requirements for meeting the documentation requirements criteria.

1. Identity documents
2. Educational documents
3. Health insurance-related documents
4. Character-related documents
5. If your partner is accompanying you, their documents
6. Dependent’s documents (below the age of 18 years)
7. Documents for any dependents above the age of 18

Explore the detailed Australia Student Visa Documents Checklist for Indian students.

How To Apply For Post Study Work Visa Australia?

To apply for an Australian post-study work visa, international students have two options: an online application through their ImmiAccount or a paper form. The paper form is accepted if their current visa application mentions "No further stay" condition 8503 or 8534.

• For Temporary Graduate Visas (graduate workstream and post-study workstream):
  • Apply from within Australia but not during immigration clearance.
  • Submit the application after completing your course but within 6 months from course completion.

Having grasped the post-study work visa Australia requirements, and the application possibilities, let us further delve into the step-by-step application process for the Australia student visa post-study work. This streamlined process will help you navigate the Australian work visa application more easily.

• Step 1: Gather all required documents.
• Step 2: Visit the official ImmiAccount page.
• Step 3: Create an ImmiAccount (for new users) or login if you already have an account.
• Step 4: Complete the visa application form and attach all necessary documents.
• Step 5: Provide details about accompanying family members.
• Step 6: Make the application fee payment using your credit card, BPay, or PayPal.

Want to know more about Student Dependent Visa Australia from requirements, fees, process and & more in this comprehensive guide.

Cost of Post-Study Work Visa Australia

Navigate your career path and uncover the price of post-study work visas in Australia. What's the investment for your global ambitions?

What is the Processing Time For Post Study Work Stream Visa Australia?

Processing times for post-study work visas in Australia can vary depending on the specific type of visa you're applying for. The processing time for 485 dependent visas in Australia, under the Graduate Workstream, typically falls within a range of 90 days to 4 months. 

If you're applying for the Temporary Graduate Visa Australia 485 under the Post-Study Workstream, the processing time usually takes around 70 to 90 days and for the Skilled Recognized Graduate Visa, you can expect a longer processing period, generally spanning 8 to 11 months. 

Want to know How To Get PR in Australia For Indian Students After Study? Explore the guide for complete details.

Alternate Visa Options For International Students in Australia

So far we have learnt about the details to post study work permit in Australia, before we conclude it is also crucial to understand what are the alternative visa subclasses for International students in Australia. These include:

Regional Australian Post Higher Education Work Visa

This is a specific pathway under the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) the regional Australian Post Higher Education Work visa offers international graduates the opportunity to live and work in regional areas of Australia

With a stay period of up to 4 years, this visa is tailored for career advancement, while also offering a rich cultural experience beyond major urban centres The popular regional cities for graduates in Australia include

Benefits of Post-Study Work Visa in Australia

The post-study work visa in Australia is a temporary visa that allows international students to live, work, and study in Australia upon completing their studies. Here are some key advantages of this visa:

• The post-study work visa enables students to acquire valuable work experience in Australia, enhancing their future career prospects.
• This visa permits students to prolong their stay in Australia after finishing their studies.
• The post-study work visa is seamlessly integrated into the student visa, eliminating the need for extra paperwork or processes.
• All students who complete higher education in Australia automatically qualify for the post-study work visa.
• Unlike some countries, there are no occupation restrictions with this visa, allowing students to work in their chosen field.
• For certain students, this visa can serve as a pathway to permanent residency in Australia.
• The visa permits students to work and study simultaneously, helping them financially support themselves while gaining work experience.
• The post study work visa Australia duration varies based on the student's completed program but is typically around 18 months.

Explore the detailed list of Benefits of Studying in Australia for Indian Students

Latest Amendments to Post Study Work Visa In Australia

The quick overview of the latest changes to the post study work visa Australia now known as Post Higher Education Work Visa Australia, include:

• End of 2 Year Extension: From mid 2024, the additional 2 year extension of post study work rights will no longer be available.
• Higher Education Language Requirements: New language requirements have been introduced for applicants to ensure better integration into the workforce.

Know What is the IELTS Band Requirement For Australia immigration from Australia.

Embark on an Enriching Career in Australia with GetGIS Assistance

The post study work visa Australia, provides international students with an excellent opportunity to gain work experiences and explore career pathways in the country. While recent amendments have changed certain aspects of the visa, it remains a key stepping stone for aspirants seeking employment and Australia PR.

Don't just dream about it – take action by seeking assistance from GetGIS, embark on this journey, and shape your path to success. 

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Useful Links

• 50 Most Important Interview Questions and Answers for Australian Student Visa
• Cost of studying in Australia for Indian students
• How To Write The Best SOP For An Australian Student Visa