One of the significant advantages of studying in Australia is the opportunity to gain valuable work experience after graduation through the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). This guide explains everything you need to know about post-study work rights in Australia.
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
This visa has two streams:
1. Graduate Work Stream
- Duration: 18 months
- Eligibility: Recent graduates with skills and qualifications in an occupation on the skilled occupation list
- Requirements: Skills assessment for nominated occupation
2. Post-Study Work Stream
- Duration: 2-4 years depending on qualification level
- Bachelor's degree: 2 years
- Master's by coursework: 2 years
- Master's by research: 3 years
- Doctoral degree: 4 years
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa, you must:
- Be under 50 years of age
- Hold an eligible student visa in the last 6 months
- Meet the Australian study requirement (at least 2 years of study)
- Have sufficient English language proficiency
- Have adequate health insurance
- Meet health and character requirements
- Apply within 6 months of course completion
Benefits of Post-Study Work Rights
- Gain Australian work experience: Highly valued by employers worldwide
- Explore career options: Try different roles in your field
- Build professional network: Connect with industry professionals
- Pathway to PR: Can lead to permanent residency opportunities
- Earn while you explore: Offset education costs and support yourself
Application Process
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure you meet all requirements before applying.
Step 2: Gather Documents
- Passport
- Completion letter from university
- English language test results
- Health insurance policy
- Skills assessment (for Graduate Work stream)
- Police certificates
Step 3: Submit Application
- Apply online through ImmiAccount
- Pay application fee (approx. AUD $1,730)
- Submit all required documents
Step 4: Wait for Decision
- Processing time: 4-6 months typically
- You may be granted a bridging visa while waiting
Job Search Tips
1. Start Early
- Begin networking in your final semester
- Attend career fairs and industry events
- Connect with alumni working in your field
2. Leverage University Resources
- Use career services for CV review and interview prep
- Access job boards exclusive to graduates
- Attend workshops on Australian workplace culture
3. Build Your Network
- Join professional associations
- Attend industry meetups and conferences
- Connect on LinkedIn with industry professionals
- Seek informational interviews
4. Tailor Your Applications
- Adapt CV to Australian format
- Highlight relevant Australian experience
- Emphasize transferable skills
- Use keywords from job descriptions
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Post-study work can be a stepping stone to PR through:
- Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189): Points-based system
- Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190): State nomination required
- Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186): Employer sponsorship
- Regional visas: Additional points for regional work
Important Considerations
- Apply early: Don't wait until the last day of the 6-month window
- Maintain your visa: Keep your visa current while waiting for 485 decision
- Save documents: Keep all academic records and completion letters
- Plan ahead: Consider PR pathways from the start of your studies
- Stay informed: Immigration policies can change
Planning your post-study career in Australia? BS Education Global can help you navigate visa applications and career planning. Contact us for expert guidance!
