How long can I stay on the subclass 485 visa after a masters in Australia?
Coursework masters graduates in Australia get 2 years on the subclass 485 visa, and research masters graduates get 3 years. Under the Australia-India trade agreement (AI-ECTA), Indian nationals with a masters degree get 3 years. Working on the 485 can also help build a path towards PR.
Coursework masters graduates get 2 years on the subclass 485 visa and research masters graduates get 3 years. Under the Australia-India trade agreement (AI-ECTA), Indian nationals with a masters degree (coursework, extended or research) get 3 years.
Subclass 485 duration by masters type
| Masters type | Subclass 485 duration |
|---|---|
| Coursework masters | 2 years |
| Research masters | 3 years |
| Indian nationals (AI-ECTA) | 3 years for any masters degree |
The 485 and your PR path
A masters degree can lead to PR eventually, especially if you first hold the subclass 485 visa and build some Australian work experience during that time. Coursework masters programmes usually run 1.5 to 2 years, while research-based ones can stretch up to 3 years.
My Advice
Plan your work experience from the first semester so your 485 years count. Rules on this visa change from time to time, so confirm the current duration on the official Home Affairs website before you finalise your course.
This information is available on: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
More expert answers
After your master's in Australia, the subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa lets you stay and gain work experience. Coursework graduates typically get 2 years and research graduates 3 years, while Indian nationals get 3 years for both under AI-ECTA.
Visa duration by course type
| Graduate type | Visa duration |
|---|---|
| Coursework masters | 2 years |
| Masters by research | 3 years |
| Indian nationals | 3 years for coursework or research masters, under the AI-ECTA agreement |
Recent tightening of the rules
- Check the current application fee on the Home Affairs Visa Pricing Estimator.
- You must generally be 35 or under when you apply; under 50 applies to masters by research or doctoral graduates and Hong Kong or BNO passport holders.
- You must have held a Student visa in the last 6 months and hold a recent degree from a CRICOS-registered course.
My Advice
Confirm the current duration for Indian nationals on the official Home Affairs page before you plan your finances. Keep records that show your course choice and career plan, since the Genuine Graduate test looks at both.
This information is available on: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
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