Top 7 Requirements for the Australia Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485) [2025-2026 Guide]

TL;DR
You can stay and work in Australia for 2–6 years after graduation under the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485), but the government has tightened age limits, English scores, and occupation lists for 2025-2026. Your success depends on meeting the new post-study work stream requirements and applying before your student visa expires.

What is the Australia Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)?

The Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485) allows international graduates to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily after completing their studies. It’s designed to give you local work experience, helping you qualify for permanent residency later.

According to the Department of Home Affairs’ official Post-Study Work Visa page, this visa is split into two main streams: the Graduate Work stream (for vocational qualifications) and the Post-Study Work stream (for higher education degrees). As of mid-2025, new restrictions apply, including a reduced maximum age from 50 to 35, a higher English score requirement, and tighter checks on genuine temporary stay.

Am I eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485)?

Yes, but you must meet five strict criteria to be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) in 2025-2026.

You must be under 35 years old (or 50 for certain research and Hong Kong passport holders). You also need to have completed at least two academic years of study in Australia, hold an eligible qualification, and meet the new English language standard.

Here is a checklist of the core eligibility requirements:

• Age: Under 35 at the time of application (with exceptions for PhD graduates and HK passport holders).
• Recent Graduate: You must have completed your course within the last 6 months.
• Australian Study Requirement: You must have completed a CRICOS-registered course in 2 academic years (92 weeks) while physically in Australia.
• English Proficiency: IELTS score of 6.5 (minimum 5.5 for each band) or equivalent. For the Graduate Work stream, it’s IELTS 6.0.
• Health Insurance: You must hold adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

How long can I stay on the Post-Study Work Stream in 2025?

The duration of the Post-Study Work stream depends on your qualification level, but new caps mean shorter stays for most applicants.

If you hold a Bachelor’s degree, you can stay for 2 years. Master’s (coursework) graduates get 2 years, and Master’s (research) graduates get 3 years. PhD graduates get 3 to 4 years, depending on their field.

The duration is calculated based on your highest qualification, not your total study time. Use the NovenAI EOI Points Calculator to see how these years of work add to your PR points.

What is the new English language requirement for Subclass 485?

You now need a higher English score to apply for the Subclass 485 visa in 2025. The minimum IELTS score has risen from 6.0 to 6.5 (with no band lower than 5.5).

For the Graduate Work stream, the minimum remains IELTS 6.0. English test results are valid for only 1 year from the test date at the time of application.

Here is the breakdown of accepted test scores:

If you are unsure of your current level, use the NovenAI English Level Guide to know exactly which test score you need.

How do I apply for the Post-Study Work Visa 485?

You apply online via your ImmiAccount. The process is entirely digital.

First, gather your documents: passport, completion letter, academic transcript, English test results, AFP police check, and health insurance policy. Then, log into your ImmiAccount, select the Subclass 485 visa, and upload all documents.

It is critical to apply before your student visa expires. You cannot apply for a 485 visa onshore if your student visa has already ended, even by one day. This rule is strict and non-negotiable.

Key steps to avoid a refusal:

• Apply for the AFP check early (it can take 2–3 weeks).
• Get a medical examination (e-fetched referral from Bupa or Medibank).
• Do not travel overseas while your application is being processed.

Can I extend or get a second Post-Study Work visa?

You may be eligible for a second 485 visa of up to 2 years if you live and work in a designated regional area.

The “485 extension” scheme applies to graduates who completed their degree in regional Australia (Category 2 or 3 areas) and continue to live there. Alternatively, you may transition to a skilled visa (like the 482 or 189) if you find an employer willing to sponsor you.

If your occupation is on the skilled occupation list, you can apply for a skilled visa. The NovenAI Visa Success Predictor can tell you your real chances of getting a PR invite based on your current score and occupation.

What occupations are eligible for the Graduate Work stream in 2025?

The Graduate Work stream for the Subclass 485 visa now has a shortened eligible occupation list for 2025-2026.

You must have a qualification closely related to an occupation on the Australian Government’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). If your occupation was removed from the list this year, you may not be eligible for the Graduate Work stream.

You will also need a skills assessment from the relevant assessing authority for your occupation. This can take months, so start early.

What happens after my Post-Study Work visa ends?

You must either leave Australia, apply for another visa, or have a pathway to permanent residency.

Many graduates use their 485 time to gain enough skilled work experience to apply for a Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189) or Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190). Working in your field for 1–3 years can add 5–15 points to your EOI profile.

Important: You cannot apply for another Student visa onshore after a 485 visa unless you are in a compelling personal situation. Plan your next step 6 months before your 485 visa expires.

Conclusion

The Australia Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485) is your best ticket to gaining local work experience and building a pathway to permanent residency—but the rules are getting tighter. Act now, check your eligibility, and gather your documents before new caps reduce your options.

Ready to plan your next step? Use the NovenAI EOI Points Calculator to see where you stand today, or chat with the NovenAI AI Mentor to get a custom roadmap for your PR journey.