The Australian government introduced new 485 visa rules, which have already rolled out by now. It rolled out in the middle of 2024 and had a significant impact on everyone with the dream of living, studying, and working in Australia. Although the changes were necessary, given the surge in the number of applicants every year, many students are deeply affected by the new changes in the migration strategy. Let us look at the modifications made by the Australian Government regarding the Graduate Visa 485.
Key Changes To The 485 Subclass Visa Program (By Streams)
1] Renaming The Streams
Before the 485 visa new rules rolled out, the applicants could apply for four streams, namely, Post-study work, Graduate work, Second post-study work, and Replacement streams. Three of them were renamed along with the changes in age limitations, stay periods, and eligibility requirements. Here are the current names of the streams:
| Former Streams | Renamed As |
| Graduate Work Stream | Post-Vocational Education Work Stream |
| Post-Study Work Stream | Post-Higher Education Work Stream |
| Second Post-Study Work Stream | Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream |
Now, let us look at the 485 subclass visa changes according to each stream.
Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
Apart from renaming this stream, the 485 visa new rules 2025 include modifications in the age limit, which is now reduced to 35 years. It remains the same for the British and Hong Kong passport holders. To apply for this stream, you must hold an associate degree, diploma, or trade qualification.
Post-Higher Education Work Stream
According to the 485 visa new rules age limit, applicants can apply for post-higher education work stream till the age of 35, while British and Hong Kong applicants can do it till 50 years. The stay period has also been adjusted for Bachelor’s (2 years), Master’s (2 years), and PhD courses (3 years). Additionally, there is an AI-ECTA agreement for stay extension, valid for Indian nationals, which varies according to degree type and grade.
Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream
There are no significant changes or modifications observed for the post-higher education workstream apart from renaming. The age limit and eligibility criteria for applying remain the same for overseas applicants.
Read Also: What Are the Intakes You Should Keep In Mind While Applying For a Temporary Graduate Visa 485?
2] Discontinuing Replacement Stream
Replacement stream allowed you to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily, and also your eligible dependent family members could apply to join you. However, as per 485 visa new rules, primary applicants will no longer be able to apply for this. The ones who already have the replacement visa can use it until expiration.
3] Higher Scores Requirement In English Skill Tests
The 485 visa new rules IELTS are also updated. Earlier, the applicants had to pass the English Language Skill Test with at least a 6 score overall. But, as the new rules for temporary graduate visa roles are rolled out, the applicants will have to score a minimum of 5.5 in each band and 6.5 overall. Additionally, the validity for the English language proficiency test has been reduced to 1 year, which was earlier 3 years.
Read Also: What Can Be Done Once You Complete Your Graduation In Australia?
Implications for Prospective Students And Graduates
Whether you are a prospective, current, or a graduate student over 35, these new rules for TR in Australia are surely impactful. Let us look at how this can affect your work and study plans in Australia.
For Prospective Students
If you are nearing 35, then you must expedite your study plans to graduate and apply as early as possible to get an invitation for selection. You must ensure that you choose the qualification level that aligns with the eligibility criteria of your preferred visa subclass 485 stream. Before applying, you must carefully consider a vocational, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree to have a long-term career in the country.
For Current Students
You must carefully go through the documents that you have provided and update them to determine which stream you qualify for. Your qualification depends on your current educational background and age. If you are nearing the age limit of the current Graduate Visa 485 is expiring, then ensure that you apply for renewal according to the updated rules.
For Graduates Over 35
Hong Kong and British overseas passport holders can apply till the age of 50. However, if you are from another country, almost 35, and still want to study and work in Australia, then you must look for other alternatives. Instead of visa subclass 485, you can consider applying for skilled migration visas, employer-sponsored visas, or state-nominated visas.
Read Also: What Are The Visa 485 Document Checklist in Australia
Tips To Navigate Through the 485 Visa New Rules
While the 485 visa’s new rules’ effective date has passed, you can still navigate through the changes effectively by considering a few pointers.
- Stay Updated: The best way to handle the changes to the visa 485 rules is to stay updated with the latest details. Thus, you must visit the official Australian government immigration website frequently.
- Seek Expert Advice: Get in touch with a registered migration agent in Perth or an immigration lawyer to receive personalised advice and strategies. Whether you are a prospect or current student for a 485 visa application, it is better to get expert advice according to the updated rules.
- Plan Accordingly: For a smoother transition, ensure that you plan to apply for a 485 Visa Australia a few months prior. Beginning the application process is only beneficial for you, as it may take longer to get the approval.
What Is The Eligibility To Get a 485 Visa Australia According To the New Rules?
If you are planning to continue your studies and work in Australia, then it’s recommended that you start the process early, as it takes a few months to get the approval. Duration for different visa sublclass 485 varies, as it takes 5 months for graduate work, whereas 78 days for post-study work.
Let us look at the detailed breakdown of the Graduate Visa 485 application process.
- You must meet the age limit, i.e., you must be under 35 to be eligible to fill out the visa application form. However, if you have a Hong Kong or British passport, then you can apply till you turn 50.
- While applying for the visa 485, you must be living in Australia.
- During the time of applying, you must hold a valid student visa along with proof of study completion within the last 6 months.
- Your recent qualification course must be from a CRICOS-registered institution.
- You must meet the new English language proficiency standards, i.e., 6.5 overall score.
- Must hold a health and character proof to meet the approval requirement set by the Australian government.
- You must hold the verified documents to prove that you meet the 485 visa stream requirement. You must apply for the stream that is best suited according to your qualifications.
Read the Latest Blog: Student Visa Australia Requirements: A Complete Guide for 2025
Get Ready To Take The Next Step In Your Journey To Australia
Although the temporary graduate visa 485 new rules have rolled out, you can still fulfil your dream of studying and working in Australia. Whether you are opting for a higher, post-graduate, or master’s degree, ensure that you choose the right stream while applying. For any kind of issues with the application process, you must always contact an expert immigration agent for help.
