How long does the 485 Visa last?

Following recent crackdowns, the durations shrank back to baseline. Bachelor's and Master's by Coursework degrees generally yield **2 years**. Master's by Research/PhDs yield **3 years**. Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders are uniquely granted 5 years.

Can I get a regional extension?

Yes. If you lived, studied, and graduated from an educational institution located in a completely designated separate Regional Area (e.g., Adelaide, Perth, Hobart), you can apply for a Second 485 visa granting you 1 to 2 extra years. To qualify, you must continue to physically reside in that regional area after graduation.

What work restrictions exist?

None. The 485 is a completely unrestricted full-time work visa empowering you to work anywhere in Australia, serving as the pivotal stepping stone for logging the required domestic work experience to eventually unlock Employer Sponsorship (482/186) or Skilled Independent PR (189/190).

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Australia

Temporary Graduate / Post-Study Work

Subclass 485

AUD 1,895

Application Fee

60–180 days

Processing Time

24 Months

Maximum Stay

Up to 1x

Extensions

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply on the official government website

Last verified: 14 April 2026. Not legal advice.

Am I eligible?

Eligibility Status

🌍

Globally AccessibleAll nationalities may apply