GSM – Subclass 485
Overview
The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is designed for international students who have recently completed their studies in Australia. It allows graduates to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily, providing an opportunity to gain valuable work experience and explore pathways to permanent residency. Serving as a bridge between student life and professional career, this visa is a popular choice for recent graduates seeking to start their journey in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements
- Age: You must be under 35 years old when you apply
- Location: You must be in Australia when you apply for the visa
- Previous visa: You must have held a student visa or bridging visa A/B in the past 6 months
- Health and character: You need to pass health checks and police clearances
- No previous 485 visa: You cannot have been granted a 485 or 476 visa before
- Education: You must have completed at least 2 years of study (92 weeks) at a CRICOS-registered Australian institution with a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification
- Timing: You must apply within 6 months of finishing your course
- English language: You need to prove your English skills through IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, OET, or Cambridge C1 Advanced tests, and results must be provided at the time of application submission
- Health insurance: You must have adequate health insurance for yourself and your family
- Course completion: Your Australian qualification must have been completed within the last 6 months
- Visa streams: Choose from the Post-Higher Education Work stream, the Second Post-Higher Education Work stream, or the replacement stream
Key Tips:
- Best time to apply:
Apply as soon as possible after graduation, but within 6 months - Common mistakes:
Missing documents, incorrect health insurance, applying too late after course completion, and submitting applications without English test results ready
Application Process
Step-by-Step Overview
Preparation Phase
Gather all required documents and check your eligibility for the appropriate stream
English Test
Complete your English language test before applying (results must be available at application time)
Online Application
Submit your application through ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website
Biometrics
Book and attend your biometrics appointment if required
Biometrics
Book and attend your biometrics appointment if required
Health Checks
Complete medical examinations if requested
Decision
Receive your visa outcome via email
Required Documents
- Current passport and identity documents
- Educational certificates and transcripts from your Australian course (bachelor’s degree or higher)
- Completion letter from your educational institution
- English language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, OET, or Cambridge) – must be available at application time
- Health insurance policy documents (Overseas Visitor Health Cover)
- Health examination results (if requested)
- Police clearance certificates from all countries you’ve lived in for 12+ months
- Evidence of Australian study completion
- CRICOS course confirmation documents
- Proof of relationship for family members included in the application
- Form 80 (Personal particulars for assessment, including character assessment)
- Documents specific to your chosen visa stream
Rights and Restrictions
- Work full-time in any job in Australia with no hour restrictions
- Study further courses if you wish
- Travel in and out of Australia multiple times during your visa period
- Include your partner and children in your application
- This is a temporary visa – you cannot stay permanently on this visa alone
- You must maintain adequate health insurance throughout your stay
- You cannot apply for this visa more than once (with some specific exceptions for certain streams)
Step Towards Your Australian Dream!
Whether you're pursuing skilled migration, student visas, family sponsorship, or business migration, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to start your journey toward living, working, or studying in Australia with confidence!
