Temporary Graduate Visa Australia: Work & Stay Guide
Australia is a top destination for international students, offering world-class education and vibrant career opportunities. If you’ve recently completed your studies in Australia and want to gain valuable work experience, the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is your gateway to staying and working in the country.
What is the Temporary Graduate Visa?
The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows recent international graduates to temporarily live, work, and study in Australia. It provides an excellent opportunity to gain professional experience in your field and can serve as a pathway to permanent residency.
Types of Temporary Graduate Visa
There are two main streams under the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485):
- Graduate Work Stream:
- For students with qualifications related to occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
- Valid for 18 months (extended to 24 months for applications lodged after July 2023).
- Requires a skills assessment in the nominated occupation.
- Post-Study Work Stream:
- Available for students who have completed a higher education degree from an Australian institution.
- Valid for 2 to 4 years, depending on the qualification level.
- Does not require a skills assessment.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be under 50 years of age.
- Hold an eligible student visa at the time of application.
- Have completed a CRICOS-registered course in Australia.
- Meet English language requirements.
- Provide health insurance for the duration of your stay.
- Apply within 6 months of completing your course.
Benefits of the Temporary Graduate Visa
- Gain valuable Australian work experience.
- No restrictions on work hours.
- Opportunity to transition to permanent residency through employer-sponsored visas or General Skilled Migration (GSM).
- Live and travel freely within Australia.
- Bring eligible family members to stay with you.
How to Apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa
- Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the visa requirements.
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare your passport, English test results, academic transcripts, and health insurance.
- Apply Online: Submit your visa application via the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Await Processing: Visa processing times vary, typically ranging from 7 to 12 months.
- Start Working and Exploring: Once granted, begin your career in Australia!
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Many Temporary Graduate Visa holders use their work experience in Australia to transition to permanent residency through visas such as:
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Get Expert Assistance for Your Visa Application
Navigating the visa process can be complex, and expert guidance can improve your chances of a successful application. If you’re planning to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa, New Roots offers professional support to help you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
The Temporary Graduate Visa is a fantastic opportunity for international students who wish to extend their stay and build a career in Australia. Whether you aim to gain work experience, explore pathways to permanent residency, or enjoy more time in Australia, this visa provides a valuable stepping stone. Start your application today and take the next step in your Australian journey!
