The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa is one of the most valuable benefits of studying in Australia. It lets you live and work in Australia after graduation — for 2 to 6 years depending on where you studied and your qualification level. For Nepali graduates, this is the critical bridge between study and Australian permanent residence.
The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa is one of the most valuable benefits of studying in Australia. It lets you live and work in Australia after graduation — for 2 to 6 years depending on where you studied and your qualification level. For Nepali graduates, this is the critical bridge between study and Australian permanent residence.
Two Streams of the Subclass 485 Visa
Graduate Work Stream: For graduates whose qualification is closely related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Duration: 18 months. Requires a skills assessment from the relevant assessing body (e.g., Engineers Australia, CPA Australia, AHPRA). Best for graduates in engineering, nursing, accounting, and IT who want to transition directly to skilled migration.
Post-Study Work Stream: For graduates of Australian bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees who were physically present in Australia for the degree. No skills assessment required. Duration based on qualification level and study location.
Post-Study Work Stream Duration
| Qualification Level | Study Location | Visa Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s or Master’s by coursework | Major city | 2 years |
| Master’s by research | Major city | 3 years |
| Doctoral degree (PhD) | Major city | 4 years |
| Any qualification | Regional area | +2 years extra (e.g., 4 years for bachelor’s) |
| Any qualification | Remote/low-pop. regional | +3 years extra (e.g., 5 years for bachelor’s) |
Eligibility Requirements
- Completed an eligible qualification at an Australian institution while on a student visa
- Applied within 6 months of course completion
- Under 50 years of age
- Meet health and character requirements
- English requirement: IELTS 6.0 overall (no band below 5.0) or equivalent — OR exempt if from an approved English-speaking country
- Hold (or have held) a valid student visa
Regional Study Strategy for Longer 485 Duration
A common strategy for Nepali students: study at a regional university (e.g., University of Wollongong, University of Newcastle, Deakin University Geelong, University of South Australia) to receive an extra 2 years on the 485 visa — turning a standard 2-year post-study visa into a 4-year visa. This significantly increases the time available to accumulate points for skilled migration. Regional universities also typically have lower tuition fees (AUD 22,000–30,000/year vs AUD 35,000–48,000 at Go8) and are often more generous with scholarships.
From 485 to Permanent Residence
During your 485 visa period, you build your profile for skilled migration. Key pathways:
- Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent): Points-based, no state sponsorship needed. Requires 65+ points. Australian study adds 5 points; 1–3 years Australian work experience adds 5–10 points.
- Subclass 190 (State-Sponsored): State or territory nominates you, adding 5 points. More accessible than 189 — most Nepali IT, engineering, and healthcare graduates qualify.
- Subclass 491 (Regional Skilled): Regional state/territory nominates you. Adds 15 points. After 3 years on 491, you can apply for Subclass 191 (permanent).
Can I work full-time on the 485 visa in Australia?
Yes. The Subclass 485 visa grants unrestricted work rights — you can work full-time for any employer in any occupation. There are no employer sponsorship requirements or occupation restrictions on the 485 visa.
Can I include my spouse on a 485 visa application?
Yes. Your partner can be included as a secondary applicant and will also receive full work rights in Australia for the same duration as your 485 visa.
What happens if my 485 visa expires before I get PR?
You can apply for another temporary visa (e.g., Subclass 482 employer-sponsored visa, or another 485 stream if eligible) while your PR application is being processed. Many Nepali graduates bridge with an employer-sponsored visa after securing full-time employment in their skilled occupation.
- Subclass 485 visa (official) (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au)
- DHA graduate stream (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work full-time on the 485 visa in Australia?
Yes. The Subclass 485 visa grants unrestricted work rights — you can work full-time for any employer in any occupation. There are no employer sponsorship requirements or occupation restrictions on the 485 visa.
Can I include my spouse on a 485 visa application?
Yes. Your partner can be included as a secondary applicant and will also receive full work rights in Australia for the same duration as your 485 visa.
What happens if my 485 visa expires before I get PR?
You can apply for another temporary visa (e.g., Subclass 482 employer-sponsored visa, or another 485 stream if eligible) while your PR application is being processed. Many Nepali graduates bridge with an employer-sponsored visa after securing full-time employment in their skilled occupation.
Get Expert Guidance from EVEC
EVEC has helped thousands of Nepali students successfully study abroad since 2005. Our AIRC-certified counsellors provide personalised guidance at every step — from choosing the right university to visa lodgement. Book your free consultation today.