What Is A Post-Study Work Visa In Australia? How To Apply?

Introduction (Eloquence hook)

You’ve just finished your studies in Australia but haven’t been ready to say goodbye yet?

The Post Study Work visa is your gateway to stay longer and build your career!

So, what is a Post-Study Work visa in Australia?

Follow PTE Magic to learn all about the requirements, steps, and tips you need for a successful application!

Key Takeaways

• The Post Study Work visa helps you stay in Australia after graduation to work, live, and gain more experiences.
• There are 3 streams for university, vocational, and regional graduates, depending on your study level.
• To qualify, you need to be under 35, have a Student visa, complete an eligible course, and meet other requirements.
• You should start your application early, keep your documents ready, and stay updated with the latest visa policies for the best chance of approval.

What Is A Post-Study Work Visa In Australia?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) is a short-term visa, enabling international students to stay in Australia after they finish their studies.

With this visa, you can live, work, and gain experience in your field for 18 months to 3 years.

This visa is a perfect bridge between your student life and your professional career in Australia.

There are 3 main streams of the 485 visa:

• Post-higher Education Work Stream: For students who’ve completed a Bachelor’s, a Master’s, or a PhD degree at a university in Australia. 

Also, this type of visa is suitable for those who want to experience local work.

• Post-Vocational Education Work Stream: For those who’ve finished vocational or trade courses in Australia, especially in fields on the Skilled Occupation List.
• Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream: For graduates who already have a Post Study Work, Post-Higher Education Work, or Replacement visa. 

They have also finished their degree at a regional university in Australia.

A subclass 485 visa is your opportunity to stay longer, apply your skills, and start building your career in Australia.

Why Do You Need To Apply For A Post-Study Work Visa?

Having a Post-Study Work visa creates opportunities to stay longer and gain more work experience in Australia:

• Build a career bridge: This visa gives you a real chance to step into the Australian job market. 

You can gain hands-on experience and build strong connections in your industry.

• Pathway to permanent residency (PR): Working in Australia after graduation can help you get PR points. 

Your local experience, regional study, or work in skilled jobs can bring you closer to becoming a permanent resident.

• Financial independence: Instead of heading home right after your studies, you can work, earn, and support yourself. 

It’s also a great time to repay student loans and save for your future goals.

What Are The Requirements For The Visa?

Before applying for the 485 visa, you need to meet the following requirements:

• Age requirement: Under 35 years old when you apply.
• Valid Student visa: Held a subclass 500 visa within the last 6 months before applying.
• Course completion: Have finished a 2-year CRICOS-registered course or longer in Australia.
• English proficiency: IELTS overall 6.5  or PTE Academic 55. Besides, your test must be taken within 12 months of applying.
• Health and character: Australia’s standards for health and character standards include a medical check and police clearance.
• Health insurance: Maintain valid OSHC or OVHC for your entire stay.

How To Apply For A Post-Study Work Visa?

Below are 5 steps to apply for a Post Study Work visa:

Step 1: Check your eligibility

You should start preparing as soon as your education provider confirms that you’ve finished your course.

This is the perfect time to double-check your eligibility and update your passport if needed.

Step 2: Gather documents

You need to prepare all subclass 485 required documents, including:

• Proof of your completed qualification
• English test results (if required)
• Health insurance
• Identification documents

Step 3: Submit your application online

Next, you need to lodge your application online through your ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.

You just need to follow the instructions, fill in all the required information, and upload all your documents.

Step 4: Follow the updates

After submitting your application, you’ll receive a confirmation that it has been received.

You should usually check the messages from the Department for additional documents or updates.

Remember to respond promptly to avoid delays in your processing.

Step 5: Wait for the decision

You can be either inside or outside Australia when a decision is made.

Once approved, you’ll get your visa grant notice, showing the visa number, start date, and conditions.

Tips For A Successful Application

To get the best chance of success, you should plan carefully and stay well-prepared. 

Below are practical tips to help your application go smoothly from start to finish:

• Start early: Try applying for your visa at least 3 months before you complete your course. 

This gives you more time to prepare documents and fix anything if something’s missing or incorrect.

• Keep all your documents ready: Have your course completion letter, transcripts, and English test results ready to go. 

So you won’t have to scramble at the last minute.

• Get help if needed: If you’re not sure about what to do, it’s best to find a migration agent or education consultancy for help.
• Stay up to date: Visa policies can change anytime, so you should always check the Home Affairs website. 

Keeping yourself updated helps you avoid mistakes and ensures you’re following the latest requirements.

FAQs

How Long Can I Stay In Australia With A Post-Study Work Visa?

Your stay in Australia with a Post Study Work visa depends on your highest qualification:

• Bachelor’s: 2 years
• Master’s by Research: 3 years
• Master’s by Coursework: 2 years
• Doctoral degree (PhD): 3 years

How Long Does It Take To Process A Post-Study Work Visa?

The Post-Study Work visa is usually processed in 7-31 days, depending on the completeness of your application.

Can I Extend The Post-Study Work Visa?

No. You can’t extend the Post Study Work visa (subclass 485). 

However, you can still apply for a Second Post-Higher Education Work stream visa or skilled migration visas if eligible.

Conclusion

What is a Post-Study Work visa in Australia? 

In short, it’s a temporary visa that lets you stay and work in Australia after finishing your studies. 

It’s a pathway to gain real work experience, build your career, and enjoy more time living in Australia after graduation.

Last updated on 21/10/2025