Working after studies in Australia
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) provides eligible international students with an opportunity to stay and work in Australia after completing their studies. Depending on the visa stream and eligibility requirements, graduates may be able to live, study and work in Australia temporarily. This visa is also commonly referred to as the Temporary Residence (TR) visa or post-study work visa.
Basic Eligibility for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
- Meet the applicable age requirement.
- Meet the English language requirements.
- Meet the Australian study requirement, where applicable.
- Complete an eligible course and satisfy the requirements of the relevant visa stream.
- Meet the applicable health, character and other visa requirements.
The Temporary Graduate visa has different streams with distinct eligibility criteria. Check the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website for the latest requirements.
Visa eligibility, age limits, English language requirements and permitted stay periods can change. Always verify the current requirements before applying.
Graduate Work Stream
The Graduate Work Stream was designed for international students who completed qualifications related to occupations in demand in Australia. Applicants were required to satisfy specific qualification, skills and other eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Requirements
- Meet the applicable Australian study and qualification requirements.
- Meet the relevant occupation and skills requirements, where applicable.
- Satisfy the English language requirements.
- Meet health, character and other applicable visa conditions.
- Provide evidence of adequate health insurance when required.
For current information about visa streams and eligibility, visit the official Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) page.
Post-Study Work Stream
The Post-Study Work Stream is intended for eligible international students who have completed qualifying higher education studies in Australia. The length of stay and eligibility requirements depend on the applicant's qualification and the current visa rules.
Eligibility Requirements
- Have completed an eligible qualification at an Australian education institution.
- Meet the applicable Australian study requirement.
- Satisfy the current English language requirements.
- Meet health, character and other applicable visa requirements.
- Provide evidence of health insurance when required.
Post-Study Work Visa Duration
The permitted stay depends on the qualification, the applicable visa stream and the rules in effect when the application is lodged. Do not rely on historical visa-duration figures without checking the latest official guidance.
Regional Australia and Post-Study Work Opportunities
Studying in eligible regional areas may offer additional opportunities for graduates, depending on the applicable visa provisions and regional eligibility rules. Regional classifications and extension arrangements can change, so students should confirm whether their institution and location qualify.
Regional Locations Mentioned in the Original Guide
The following locations appeared in the original article. This list is retained as historical reference material and should not be treated as a current official classification of regional Australia.
Category 1: Major Cities
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Brisbane
Category 2: Other Listed Cities and Regions
- Perth
- Adelaide
- Gold Coast
- Canberra
- Sunshine Coast
- Hobart
- Geelong
- Newcastle
- Wollongong
- Illawarra
- Lake Macquarie
Category 3: Other Regional Locations
- Darwin
- Launceston
- Toowoomba
- Springfield
- Albury–Wodonga
- Lismore
- Bendigo
- Ipswich
- Cairns
- Wagga Wagga
- Gladstone
- Townsville
- Bundaberg
- Mackay
- Armidale
- Orange
- Rockhampton
- Emerald
- Noosa
Before choosing a university or location, check the current regional study and post-study work provisions published by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
Need Guidance for Studying in Australia?
Contact Uni2Go for guidance on Australian universities, course options and the relevant student and graduate visa requirements.
Nishidhar Reddy Borra
info@uni2go.in
