Post Study Work Visa Australia 2026: Complete 485 Visa Guide
- Ali Ehsan
- 8 min Read
This complete 2026 guide explains the Post Study Work Visa Australia (Subclass 485), including updated age limits, eligibility criteria, visa duration, and English requirements. It outlines the different 485 visa streams, application process, and key migration pathways toward permanent residency. The guide also highlights common mistakes and strategic planning tips to help international graduates structure a successful post-study migration plan in Australia.
If you are finishing your studies in Australia, understanding the Post Study Work Visa Australia 2026 rules is critical.
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) allows eligible international students to remain in Australia after graduation with full work rights. However, migration reforms implemented from 2024 onward have significantly changed eligibility criteria, age limits, English requirements, and visa duration.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the 485 visa Australia 2026 framework, including eligibility, duration, and migration pathways.
What Is the Post Study Work Visa Australia (Subclass 485)?
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is designed for international students who have completed at least two academic years of study in Australia.
It allows you to:
- Stay and work full-time in Australia
- Gain skilled employment experience
- Transition to skilled migration or employer sponsorship
- Include eligible family members
For many graduates, this visa is the first step toward permanent residency.
485 Visa Australia 2026: Major Changes You Must Know
1. 485 Visa Age Limit Australia (Updated)
From recent migration reforms, the maximum age for most applicants is now:
Under 35 years old
Exceptions may apply to PhD graduates and certain passport holders.
This change has significantly impacted mature students planning long-term migration.
2. Post Study Work Visa Duration 2026
The 485 visa duration 2026 depends on your qualification level:
- Bachelor’s Degree – Up to 2 years
- Master’s by Coursework – Up to 2 years
- Master’s by Research – Up to 3 years
- PhD – Up to 3 years
- Diploma / Trade Qualification – Up to 18 months
Previous automatic extensions have largely been removed. Planning your migration strategy early is now essential.
3. Post Study Work Visa Eligibility Australia
To meet post study work visa eligibility Australia requirements, you must:
- Be in Australia at time of application
- Be under 35 (unless exempt)
- Have held a Student visa within the last 6 months
- Complete at least 92 weeks of CRICOS-registered study
- Meet English requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall, minimum 5.5 each band)
- Meet health and character requirements
- Apply within 6 months of course completion
Missing the 6-month application window can make you ineligible.
Streams Under Temporary Graduate Visa 485 Australia
Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
- For Diploma or trade graduates
- Requires occupation on skilled list
- Skills assessment usually required
- Stay up to 18 months
Post-Higher Education Work Stream
- For Bachelor’s degree or higher
- No occupation restriction
- No skills assessment required at time of application
- Stay 2–3 years
Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream
- For graduates who studied in regional Australia
- Provides additional 1–2 years
Migration After 485 Visa: What Are Your Options?
The 485 visa is temporary. Planning your next step is critical.
Common migration pathways include:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
- Employer Sponsored Visa (Subclass 482 or 186)
During your 485 visa period, you should focus on:
- Securing employment aligned with skilled occupation lists
- Completing skills assessments
- Improving English scores if needed
- Meeting state nomination requirements
A strategic migration plan can significantly improve your long-term outcome.
How to Apply for Post Study Work Visa Australia 2026
To apply for post study work visa Australia:
- Gather completion letter and academic transcript
- Sit for English test (if required)
- Arrange health insurance (OVHC)
- Prepare identity and character documents
- Lodge application within 6 months of course completion
Processing times vary depending on the stream and completeness of documents.
Common Mistakes with 485 Visa Applications
- Applying after the 6-month deadline
- Incorrect English score validity
- Incomplete documentation
- Choosing employment unrelated to migration strategy
- Assuming policy settings will remain unchanged
Migration regulations are evolving. Professional guidance can reduce risk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the post study work visa Australia still available in 2026?
Yes. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) remains available but with updated eligibility criteria and reduced durations.
What is the age limit for 485 visa in 2026?
Most applicants must be under 35 years old.
How long can I stay on a post study work visa?
Between 18 months to 3 years depending on qualification.
Can I apply for PR after 485 visa?
Yes, but eligibility depends on occupation, skills assessment, points score, and nomination requirements.
Need Help With Your 485 Visa or Migration Plan?
At PFEC Australia, we support international students already in Australia with:
- Post Study Work Visa (Subclass 485) applications
- Skills assessment strategy
- Skilled migration planning
- Employer-sponsored visa pathways
- State nomination advice
- Further study pathway guidance
If you are nearing graduation or recently completed your course, now is the time to structure your migration pathway properly.
Contact PFEC Australia today to discuss your Post Study Work Visa Australia 2026 strategy.
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