VISAS
Graduate Visas
So, you’ve dreamed of studying in Australia, made it through the long and expensive journey, and earned a top-tier education — now what?
The Graduate Visa Temporary Graduate Visa SC485 is your golden opportunity to stay in Australia a bit longer, build your career, and even move closer to permanent residency. This visa is specifically designed for graduates of Australian institutions, allowing you to apply your skills and experience and take the next big step towards a future in Australia — a country that’s always on the lookout for skilled talent like you
Who’s eligible for the Graduate Visa?
If you’ve completed your educational course in Australia, got a qualification, and wish to continue working here, the Graduate Visa might be the perfect fit for you.
Here are the basic eligibility requirements:
- You’ve completed at least two years (92 weeks) of study in Australia.
- Your educational institution is registered with CRICOS.
- At time of application you’re under 35 (for vocational courses, bachelor’s, or master’s by coursework) or under 50 (for masters by research, PhD, or if you’re a passport holder of Hong Kong or the UK).
- You have an English proficiency level of at least overall IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) or hold a passport from Ireland, the USA, the UK, Canada, or New Zealand.
- You meet Australia’s health and character requirements.
Think this could be your chance? Amazing!
Get your free assessment to see if you qualify for the Graduate Visa!
Which Graduate Visa stream should you apply for?
There are two streams for the Graduate Visa, each with its own set of requirements and conditions:
Post-Vocational Education Work stream
- This stream is for graduates who’ve completed a vocational course related to an occupation on Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). You’ll need to hold an associate degree, diploma or trade qualification closely related to that occupation, and a skills assessment from a recognized authority.
- Applicants must be under 35 when applying or under 50 if you’re holding a passport of Hong Kong or the UK.
- With this visa, you can stay in Australia for up to 18 months, include your dependents in the visa application, and all visa holders will have full work rights.
- This is a good chance to gain local experience, find a great job, and start planning your pathway to permanent residency.
Post-Higher Education Work stream
- If you’ve completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in Australia, this stream is for you. Depending on your qualification, the visa is granted for 2 to 3 years, giving you plenty of time to settle in and explore your career options.
- You’re eligible if you completed your studies in any field from a registered Australian institution.
- At time of application applicants must be under 35 (or 50 if you’re from Hong Kong or the UK, or if you completed a research-based course such as master by research or PhD course).
- If you studied and lived in regional Australia, you may even be able to extend your stay by 1 or 2 more years by applying through Second Post-Higher Education Work stream.
- This visa allows you to work, study, and travel across Australia or overseas, with full working rights for you and your dependents.
Not sure which stream is right for you?
Fill out our free assessment form, and we’ll help you choose the best path
Key features of the Graduate Visa
Visa duration: Depending on the stream, your course of study, and your location, you can stay in Australia from 18 months to 5 years (or up to 7 years for citizens of Hong Kong or the UK).
Work rights: The Graduate Visa allows you to have full work rights, opening up new doors for your career.
Pathway to PR: The Graduate Visa is your stepping stone to permanent residency after education in Australia. Use this time to secure an employer sponsorship or boost you points to apply for a skilled visa. It also gives you the flexibility to explore other options, such as a partner visa.
Health insurance: Don’t forget to maintain your health insurance prior application and during your stay.
Visa application process: You must apply for the Graduate Visa within 6 months of completing your course. The main applicant must be in Australia when applying, while dependents can apply from overseas.
Request free info sheets on visa requirements and professional service costs,
and we’ll send you everything you need to know
Helpful Information
If you’re just starting to explore your options, wondering what Australian education can promise to you or your children, choosing the right course and institution, estimating your budget and planning next steps towards skilled migration, our guide “Education in Australia” will be your go-to resource. This 60-page PDF covers everything you need to know about visas requirements and conditions, study and living options, qualification levels, and offers practical tips on financial and strategic planning for your move to Australia.
For those who’ve completed their course and got an Australian qualification, and inspired to continue their career in Australia, we’ve prepared another resource: “Professional Migration to Australia.” This comprehensive guide leads you through the selection and invitation process, helps to plan your migration budget, and gives you the tools to strengthen your case and standout from competitors. Get started on your journey towards successful skilled migration today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Unfortunately, the Graduate Visa can’t be extended. However, if you meet certain criteria, you might be eligible for a second visa under the Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream. We highly recommend using your time on the Graduate Visa to explore options like skilled visas or even a partner visa if that’s more relevant to your circumstances.
Yes, you can include your dependents in the Graduate Visa, including your partner and children.
It’s important to start the application process early. If time is running out, contact us for a consultation. Remember, the Graduate Visa must be applied for from within Australia.
Yes, the Graduate Visa allows for both employment and self-employment. It’s a great opportunity if you’re looking to start your own business or work as a sole trader/business owner. However, it’s important to consider how your work might affect your future migration process. To ensure you’re on the right track, we recommend booking a strategic consultation with a registered migration agent. They’ll help map out a clear pathway to permanent residency, ensuring every step counts.
If you’ve recently graduated or are about to complete your studies in Australia, now is the perfect time to start planning your skilled migration.
Book your strategic consultation, where we’ll explore all your options, guide you from the Graduate Visa to permanent residency, and help you build a solid action plan.
You can ask me questions at any time.
Just email me at office@yuliamoiseeva.com.au and describe your migration issues!
