Dreaming of launching your career after completing your study in Australia? The Post Study Work Visa, officially known as the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), offers Indian students a golden opportunity to stay, work, and explore this vibrant country. Moreover, with its stunning landscapes, thriving job market, and world-class education, Australia beckons ambitious graduates. In this guide, we’ll unravel the intricacies of the 485 Visa, explore eligibility, and share how to apply for the Post Study Work Visa Australia to kickstart your global career.
What Is the Post Study Work Visa Australia?
The Post Study Work Visa is a temporary visa designed for international students who have graduated from an Australian institution. Specifically, the Subclass 485 allows you to live, work, and study in Australia for 2 to 4 years, depending on your qualification. For Indian students, this visa is a game-changer, offering a pathway to gain professional experience and potentially transition to permanent residency. This visa is divided into two main streams:
- Post-Higher Education Work Stream: For students who have completed a higher education degree (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral).
- Post-Vocational Education Work Stream: For students who have completed vocational education and training qualifications.
Eligibility for the 485 Visa: Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Post Study Work Visa Australia for Indian Students, you must meet specific criteria set by the Australian Department of Home Affairs. First, you need to have completed a CRICOS-registered course in Australia, lasting at least two academic years (92 weeks). Additionally, your qualification must be a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree for the Post-Higher Education Work Stream, or an associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification for the Post-Vocational Education Work Stream.
Furthermore, applicants must be under 35 years old. You must also apply within six months of completing your course and hold a valid student visa.
| Criteria | Post-Higher Education Work Stream | Post-Vocational Education Work Stream |
| Qualification | Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree | Associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification |
| Duration | 2-3 years (up to 4 for Indian STEM graduates) | Up to 18 months |
| Age Limit | Under 35 (or 50 for specific passport holders) | Under 35 |
| Skills Assessment | Not required | Required, related to Skilled Occupation List |
Recent Changes to the 485 Visa in 2025
From July 1, 2024, several policy updates came into effect. These are especially important for Indian students seeking a Post Study Work Visa Australia:
- Age Limit Reduced: From 50 to 35 years.
- English Requirements Tightened: A higher minimum band score of IELTS 6.5 now applies.
- Stay Duration Adjusted Based on Degree Level:
| Qualification Level | Previous Duration | New Duration |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 2 years | 2 years |
| Master’s by Coursework | 3 years | 2 years |
| Master’s by Research | 3 years | 3 years |
| Doctoral Degree | 4 years | 3 years |
| Bachelor’s with First Class Honours (STEM) | 2 years | 3 years |
How to Apply for Post Study Work Visa Australia
1: Gather Required Documents
Start by collecting all essential documents. These include your valid passport, official degree certificate, and proof of English language proficiency (such as an IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall, with no band lower than 5.5). Make sure all documents are properly certified.
2: Create an ImmiAccount
Visit the Department of Home Affairs website and register for an ImmiAccount. This account is used to complete, submit, and track your visa application online.
3: Submit Your Application
Log in to your ImmiAccount and complete the Subclass 485 visa application form. Ensure that you apply within six months of completing your course and while you are still in Australia (unless otherwise specified).
4: Pay the Visa Fee
The current visa fee is approximately AUD 1,945 for the main applicant. Additional charges may apply for any accompanying family members. Payments can be made through credit card, BPay, or PayPal.
5: Track Your Application
Once submitted, use your ImmiAccount to monitor the status of your application. Processing times can vary, but generally take between 4 to 12 months. Therefore, plan well in advance to avoid delays.
Job Opportunities and Work Conditions in 2025
Australia’s job market in 2025 is thriving, particularly in sectors like IT, healthcare, and engineering—ideal for Indian graduates. Unlike student visas, the Post Study Work Visa has no work hour restrictions, allowing you to work full-time or part-time as needed.
However, competition is fierce in metropolitan areas like Sydney and Melbourne. Therefore, consider regional areas like Adelaide or Perth, which offer additional visa benefits and a lower cost of living.
| Job Sector | Average Annual Salary (AUD) | Demand in 2025 |
| Software Engineering | 90,000 | High |
| Nursing | 75,000 | High |
| Accounting | 65,000 | Moderate |
| Hospitality | 55,000 | Moderate |
Post Study Work Visa Australia: PR Pathways for Indian Students
The Post Study Work Visa Australia for Indian Students is more than a temporary stay—it’s a stepping stone to permanent residency. By gaining Australian work experience, you can strengthen your application for visas like the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) or Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190). Additionally, regional work can earn extra points for permanent residency applications.
For example, working in regional areas like Hobart or Geelong can extend your visa duration and enhance your profile. Therefore, strategically plan your career to align with Australia’s skilled migration priorities.
Tips for a Successful 485 Visa Journey
- Prepare Early – Gather documents and ensure your English test is valid before course completion.
- Network Smart – Join job fairs and internships to build career connections.
- Go Regional – Consider regional areas for longer stays and added benefits.
- Target Demand – Focus on industries with skill shortages for better PR chances.
- Live the Dream – Use the 485 Visa to blend work, travel, and personal growth in Australia.
FAQs:
- What is the Post Study Work Visa Australia?
It’s a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allowing international students to work, live, and study in Australia for 2-4 years post-graduation. - Who is eligible for the 485 Visa?
Indian students under 35 with a CRICOS-registered degree (bachelor’s or higher) completed in Australia within the last 6 months qualify. - How to apply for Post Study Work Visa in Australia?
Create an ImmiAccount, submit the Subclass 485 form, provide documents, and pay AUD 1,945. Apply within 6 months of course completion. - Can I bring my family on the 485 Visa?
Yes, you can include your spouse and children, but additional fees apply for each family member. - Does the 485 Visa lead to permanent residency?
It’s not a direct PR visa but provides work experience to strengthen applications for skilled migration visas like Subclass 189.
Conclusion
The Post Study Work Visa Australia is a game-changer for Indian students aspiring to build an international career. It not only offers real-world job experience in a thriving economy but also provides a clear path toward permanent residency.
Thus, by staying updated, fulfilling eligibility criteria, and applying strategically, Indian students can make the most of their study in Australia and lay the groundwork for a promising future.
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