What steps do I follow to apply for the Subclass 485 post-study work visa in Australia?
Applying for the Subclass 485 visa follows seven steps: confirm your eligibility, gather documents, create an ImmiAccount, submit the online application, pay the fee, complete health checks and character checks (an AFP police check is generally required for applicants over 16), then track your ImmiAccount for the decision.
To apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), you work through seven stages, starting with an eligibility check and ending with the decision on your ImmiAccount. Treat the early stages seriously, because most delays come from missing or inconsistent documents.
Your seven-step application path
| Step | What you do |
|---|---|
| 1. Confirm eligibility | Check age, qualification, English language and visa timing requirements |
| 2. Gather documents | Passport, academic transcripts, completion letter, English test results and health insurance details |
| 3. Create an ImmiAccount | Register on the Department of Home Affairs website to manage the application online |
| 4. Submit online | Complete the form carefully, upload documents and review before sending |
| 5. Pay the visa fee | Pay through your ImmiAccount and keep the receipt |
| 6. Health and character checks | Arrange medical exams and an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check, which is generally required for applicants over 16 |
| 7. Await the decision | Check your ImmiAccount for updates, requests and the outcome |
Habits that keep the process smooth
- Apply early rather than close to your deadline
- Keep your documents organised in one folder
- Enter accurate information that matches your records exactly
My Advice
Start with the eligibility check, because everything else depends on it. Build a single checklist for your documents, respond quickly to any request in your ImmiAccount, and verify current requirements on the official Home Affairs site before you submit.
How long can you stay and work after an Australian master's?
Post-study work rules are changing. Know what you will actually get.
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