Australia Post Study Work Visa 2026 – A Guide

Australia continues to be one of the top destinations for international students, known for its world-class education, multicultural environment, and welcoming society. But what happens after you graduate? The Post Study Work Visa (Temporary Graduate Visa – Subclass 485) offers international graduates the chance to stay, work, and gain professional experience in Australia.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the different visa streams, eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, and key tips for success in 2026.

What is a Post Study Work Visa?

A Post Study Work Visa allows international students who have completed their studies in Australia to remain in the country temporarily to work full-time and gain practical experience. The most common option is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which has multiple streams based on your qualifications and circumstances.

Types of Australia Post Study Work Visa 2026:

1. Post-Study Work Stream

For students who completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate at an Australian higher education provider.

2. Graduate Work Stream

For students who completed a Diploma or Trade qualification relevant to an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

3. Second Post-Study Work Stream

For graduates who lived and studied in regional Australia. Offers an additional 1–2 years beyond the first Subclass 485 visa.

4. Replacement Stream

For former 485 visa holders who lost time in Australia due to COVID-19-related travel restrictions.

Check Also: Australia Sponsors 482 Work Visa

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for a Post Study Work Visa, you must:

• Be under 50 years old
• Hold an eligible student visa (or have held one in the last 6 months)
• Have completed a CRICOS-registered course (minimum of 2 academic years)
• Meet the Australian study requirement
• Provide proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.0 overall, no band under 5.0)
• Hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Pass character and police checks

Each stream may have specific rules, but these are the general eligibility requirements.

Duration of Stay:

• Bachelor’s Degree – 2 years
• Master’s Degree (Coursework or Research) – 3 years
• Doctoral Degree (PhD) – 4 years
• Graduate Diploma/Certificate (Graduate Work Stream) – 18 months
• Regional Graduates (Second Post-Study Stream) – Up to 2 extra years

Note: Durations may be updated by the Department of Home Affairs.

Benefits:

1. Gain Valuable Work Experience in Australia

• The visa allows international graduates to live, work, and study in Australia after completing an eligible qualification.
• It’s a great way to gain Australian work experience, which can improve your chances for permanent residency.

2. Stay Duration up to 8 Years (for some degrees)

• The length of stay depends on your qualification:
  • Bachelor’s degree: Up to 2 years
  • Master’s by coursework: Up to 3 years
  • Master’s by research: Up to 3 years
  • PhD: Up to 4 years
  • Regional graduates may get additional 1–2 years of stay

3. No Sponsorship Required

• This visa does not require employer sponsorship.
• You can freely switch employers, work part-time or full-time, or even be self-employed.

4. Pathway to Permanent Residency

• Work experience gained on the 485 visa can help meet criteria for:
  • Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)
  • State Sponsored Visa (190)
  • Regional Provisional Visas (491/191)
• Gaining skilled employment while on this visa strengthens PR applications.

5. Full Work Rights

• You have unrestricted work rights, allowing you to:
  • Work full-time in any job
  • Apply for internships or graduate programs
  • Run your own business

6. Bring Your Family

• You can include dependents (spouse/partner and children) in your application.
• They also receive full work and study rights in Australia.

7. Access to Australian Lifestyle and Services

• While on this visa, you can:
  • Open a bank account, get a driver’s license, and access healthcare services (with Overseas Visitor Health Cover)
  • Enjoy Australia’s quality of life, safety, and diversity

8. Opportunity to Build Your Resume and Network

• Post-study work allows you to gain relevant experience in your field of study.
• You can build local references, professional networks, and increase employability in Australia or globally.

9. Flexible Work Options

• You can work in any industry or region.
• This flexibility is helpful if you’re seeking regional migration incentives or wish to gain broad work experience.

10. Eligible for Further Visas

• Once your 485 visa ends, you may apply for:
  • Skilled visas (189/190/491)
  • Employer-sponsored visas (186/482)
  • Student visa (if pursuing further studies)
  • Graduate visa extensions (in some cases)

Application Process:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

• Must have completed a CRICOS course within the last 6 months
• Ensure you meet health, character, and English language requirements

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

• Valid passport
• Letter of course completion
• Academic transcript
• English test results (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)
• OSHC policy
• Police certificates (Australia + home country)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Bridging visa details (if applicable)

Step 3: Apply for an AFP Police Check

You must apply for an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check to demonstrate good character.

Step 4: Take an English Language Test

If you’re not from an English-speaking country, submit a valid English test score. Minimum: IELTS 6.0 (no band below 5.0)

Step 5: Apply Online via ImmiAccount

• Create/Login to your ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website
• Fill out the application for Subclass 485
• Upload all required documents and photos

Step 6: Pay the Application Fee

Fees vary depending on the visa stream and number of dependents. Pay securely through ImmiAccount.

Step 7: Submit Your Application

Once complete, submit your application. You’ll receive an acknowledgment and reference number.

Step 8: Undergo Medical Examination (if required)

Some applicants may be asked to complete a health check.

Step 9: Await Decision

Processing time is typically 4–6 months. While waiting, you may be granted a Bridging Visa A to remain in Australia.

Step 10: Visa Grant Notification

Once approved, you’ll receive your visa grant letter. You’re now eligible to work full-time in Australia.

Adding Family Members:

You can include:

• Your spouse or de facto partner
• Your dependent children

They’ll also receive full work and study rights in Australia. Include their details at application time or add them later as a subsequent entrant.

Common Reasons for Visa Refusal:

• Incomplete or inaccurate documents
• Not meeting the English requirement
• Not satisfying the Australian study criteria
• Missing police clearances
• Failing to respond to requests from immigration

Tip: Double-check all details and ensure honest, accurate information is submitted.

Tips for a Successful Application:

• Apply within 6 months of course completion
• Keep academic records organized and ready
• Maintain valid health insurance
• Ensure your passport is not expired
• Submit clear scans of documents
• Stay updated with visa and immigration changes
• Use the correct visa stream based on your situation

Final Thoughts:

The Post Study Work Visa (Subclass 485) is a valuable opportunity for international students to transition from education to a professional career in Australia. With full work rights, visa flexibility, and potential PR pathways, it’s a critical step for many graduates.

Make sure to follow the correct process, gather the right documents, and apply within the time frame. Start your journey to a successful career in Australia today!

Frequently Asked Questions: