Post Study Work Visa Australia: New 2025 Guide for Graduates

Australia is always known as the best destination for international students, due to its high-quality education system and opportunities for postgraduate students. The post study work visa, also known as the temporary graduate visa – subclass 485. It allows international graduates to live freely, work, and gain in-demand experience in Australia after completing their studies. In this 2025 guide, we’ll discuss the complete overview of post study work visa Australia, whether it’s e eligibility and visa streams that help graduates to get skilled and opportunistic jobs in Australia.

Latest Facts & News (2025) 

• Australia rebranded the Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) as the Post-Higher Education Work Visa from July 2024, with updated eligibility and durations.

• Graduates in priority sectors (STEM, Healthcare, IT, Education) and regional universities can access longer post-study work rights—up to 6 years for PhDs.

• The maximum eligible age for the Temporary Graduate Visa (TGV) has been reduced to 35 for most applicants.

• Processing times for the Post-Higher Education Work Stream are now backed by a 21-day service standard for faster decisions.

• Visa fees for the primary applicant are AUD 1,895 as of 2025, with additional charges for dependents.

• Online study during the COVID-19 concession period (Feb 2020–Nov 2023) counts towards the Australian Study Requirement.

• Indian students benefit from extended work rights, with up to 6 years post-study stay for certain degrees.

• No occupation list applies for the post study work visa Australia, increasing accessibility for graduates across disciplines.

• The new migration strategy aims to streamline pathways from post-study work to skilled migration and permanent residency.

• Regional study offers additional years on the visa, making cities like Adelaide, Perth, and Hobart attractive for international students.

Also Read: Austria Study Visa - Charting A Course To Excellence

What is a Post Study Work Visa Australia?

The post study work visa Australia, officially known in 2025 as the post-higher education work visa, is designed for international students who have recently completed an eligible degree from an Australian institution. This visa, part of the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) program, allows graduates to remain in Australia to live, work, and gain professional experience related to their field of study.

The purpose of the post study work visa Australia is to bridge the transition from academic learning to employment, helping graduates enter the Australian workforce and potentially qualify for skilled migration or permanent residency pathways. The length of stay depends on the qualification level and location of study, with extended durations available for those who studied in regional Australia.

Latest Changes to Post Study Work Visa Australia 

The latest updates to the post study work visa Australia reflect major reforms introduced in July 2024, aiming to align graduate work rights with Australia’s evolving workforce needs. These changes affect visa duration, eligibility, age limits, and offer sector-specific benefits for priority industries.

These updated 2025 guidelines are crucial for new international graduates planning their future in Australia. Here's a summary of the most important changes:

• Visa Duration Adjusted: Extended work rights for graduates of select degrees in health, teaching, engineering, and ICT; reduced durations for other sectors.

• New Age Limit: The maximum age to apply has been reduced from 50 to 35 years, with limited exemptions.

• Renamed Visa Stream: The “Post Study Work Stream” is now formally known as the Post-Higher Education Work Visa.

• Regional Study Benefits: Graduates from regional campuses continue to enjoy extended stay periods (up to 6 years total in some cases).

• Skills Alignment: Visas are now more closely tied to Australia's Skilled Occupation List, prioritising degrees aligned with national skill shortages.

• Stricter English Requirements: Updated English language proficiency rules apply to all 2025 applicants for the Australia post study work visa requirements.

Also Read: Australia Work Permit from India: Latest Guide

Benefits of Post Study Work Visa in Australia

The benefits of post study work visa in Australia are significant for international graduates looking to build a global career. The benefits of post study work visa in Australia offer not only professional development but also a strategic pathway to permanent residency and long-term settlement in Australia.

Here are the benefits of post study work visa in Australia:

• Gain Professional Experience: Work in your field of study and apply academic knowledge in real-world settings, boosting your resume and skills.

• Build Industry Networks: Connect with Australian employers, industry professionals, and potential sponsors for future skilled migration.

• Financial Independence: Earn a full-time salary, support your living expenses, and begin repaying any education-related debt.

• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Work experience gained on this visa can help you qualify for skilled migration visas such as the subclass 189, 190, or 491.

• Extended Stay Options: Graduates from regional universities may access longer visa durations, supporting deeper community integration and migration points.

• Global Employability: Australian work experience and qualifications are highly respected worldwide, enhancing your career opportunities internationally.

• Flexibility for Dependents: Your partner can also work full-time, offering dual-income opportunities for your household.

Overall, the benefits of post study work visa in Australia support a smooth transition from education to employment and lay the foundation for a successful future both in Australia and globally.

Types of Post Study Work Visa Australia in 2025

Here are the main types of post study work visa Australia offers under the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) and other related options:

1. Graduate Work Stream (Subclass 485)

• For diploma or trade qualification holders.

• Requires skills in an occupation listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).

• Stay duration: up to 18 months (24 months for Hong Kong passport holders).

• Ideal for vocational education and training (VET) graduates.

2. Post-Higher Education Work Stream (Subclass 485)

• For graduates with a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree from an Australian university.

• Stay duration: 2 to 6 years, depending on qualification and study location (regional vs metro).

• Previously called the Post-Study Work Stream, renamed in the 2024 reforms.

3. Skilled–Recognized Graduate Visa (Subclass 476)

• For engineering graduates from recognized foreign institutions (outside Australia).

• Stay duration: up to 18 months.

• Offers work experience opportunities for recent engineering graduates worldwide.

Each stream supports different graduate pathways, helping international students gain work experience and transition toward skilled migration or permanent residency in Australia.

Also Read: Comprehensive Guide to the Australia Study Visa Process

Australia Post Study Work Visa Requirements in 2025

To qualify for the Australia post study work visa requirements, applicants must meet several key eligibility criteria. Here are the main a Australia post study work visa requirements to keep in mind:

• Qualification Level: Must have completed a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, or Doctoral degree from an Australian institution (for the Post-Higher Education Work Stream). For the Graduate Work Stream, a relevant diploma or trade qualification is required.

• Australia Post Study Work Visa Requirements: Applicants must have completed at least two academic years (92 weeks) of study in Australia, studying a course registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

• Institution Requirements: The qualification must be from a CRICOS-registered Australian educational provider.

• Study Mode: Most of the study must have been conducted in Australia while on a valid student visa.

• Age Limit: Applicants must be under 35 years old at the time of application, with limited exemptions available after recent changes.

• English Proficiency: Must demonstrate competent English language skills, typically through recognised tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.

• Health and Character Checks: Applicants must meet Australia’s health and character standards, including police clearance certificates and medical examinations.

• Recent Changes: The age limit has been lowered from 50 to 35 years as of July 2024, and English language requirements have been updated to be more stringent.

Post Study Work Visa Australia Fees & Cost in 2025: Updated

As of February 1, 2025, the Australian Government has increased the post study work visa Australia fees for the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485). These changes to post study work visa Australia fees apply to both primary applicants and their dependents. Understanding the post study work visa Australia cost is crucial for prospective applicants to plan their budgets effectively and avoid unexpected expenses. Below is a detailed breakdown of the updated post study work visa Australia fees:

Additional Post Study Work Visa Australia Cost:

• Professional Service Fees: Migration agents may charge fees ranging from INR 51,000 to 91,000, depending on the complexity of the case and services provided.

• Health Insurance: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory and can cost between INR 28,000 to 57,000 annually, depending on the provider and coverage.

• Medical and Police Checks: Costs vary based on location and provider. It's advisable to budget approximately INR 17,000 to 28,000 for these checks.

Also Read: Working Visa Australia Cost: Complete Fees Breakdown

How to Apply for Post Study Work Visa Australia: Latest Step-by-Step Guide 2025

It’s really important to understand how to apply for post study work visa Australia involves a clear and structured process. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to apply for post study work visa Australia. It covers eligibility checks, document preparation, the online application, fee payment, and post-application steps to help you navigate smoothly through how to apply for a post-study work visa in Australia.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

• Confirm you meet the Australia post study work visa requirements, including qualification level, age limit (under 35), English proficiency, and the Australian Study Requirement.

• Ensure your degree or qualification is from a CRICOS-registered institution.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

• Gather essential documents required such as:

• Passport and identification

• Confirmation of your Australian qualification(s)

• Evidence of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE results)

• Health and character certificates (police clearance, medical exams)

• Recent passport-sized photographs

• Evidence of meeting the Australian Study Requirement

Step 3: Create an ImmiAccount

• Visit the official Australian immigration website and create your ImmiAccount to start your online visa application.

Step 4: Complete the Online Application

• Fill out the visa application form accurately.

• Upload all required documents in the specified format.

• Review your information carefully to avoid errors that can delay processing.

Step 5: Pay the Visa Application Fee

• Pay the post study work visa Australia cost online through the ImmiAccount portal.

• Keep the payment receipt as proof of payment.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

• Submit your completed application and monitor your ImmiAccount regularly for updates or requests for additional information.

Step 7: Attend Medical Examinations (if required)

• Complete any health checks or additional requirements requested by the Department of Home Affairs.

Step 8: Wait for Processing

• The processing time for the subclass 485 visa typically ranges from 3 to 5 months.

• Use this time to prepare for your new work opportunities in Australia.

Step 9: Receive Visa Outcome

• Once approved, you will receive your visa grant notification.

• Check the visa conditions, including work rights and duration.

Duration and Validity of Post Study Work Visa Australia in 2025

The post-study work visa duration in Australia varies based on your qualification level, field of study, and whether you studied in a regional area. Recent policy changes have adjusted these durations to align with Australia's workforce needs.

Bachelor’s Degree (including Honours)

• Standard duration: 2 years

• Priority sectors (STEM, Healthcare, IT, Education, Agriculture): up to 4 years

Master’s Degree (Coursework)

• Standard duration: 2 years

• Priority sectors: up to 4 years

Master’s Degree (Research)

• Standard duration: 3 years

• Priority sectors: up to 5 years

Doctoral Degree (PhD)

• Standard duration: 4 years

• Priority sectors: up to 6 years

Regional Australia Study

• Graduates who studied in regional areas may get 1 to 2 extra years of work rights, depending on location and conditions.

Also Read: Work Permit: All You Need To Know To Work Abroad

Latest Pathways to Permanent Residency After Post Study Work Visa Australia 2025

After completing your studies and obtaining the post study work visa Australia, many international graduates aim to transition to permanent residency (PR). Gaining local work experience under the subclass 485 visa can significantly strengthen your profile for skilled migration and long-term settlement in Australia.

1. Skilled Migration Visas
   Your Australian qualifications and local work experience make you eligible for points-tested visas such as:

• Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189)

• Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190)

• Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (subclass 491)

2. Points System
   Points are awarded based on age, education, work experience, English proficiency, and other factors.

• Australian work experience and qualifications give you a strong advantage.

• Additional points may be available for study and residence in regional Australia.

3. Employer-Sponsored PR Pathways
   If employed in a skilled occupation, you may qualify for:

• Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482) leading to

• Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) for permanent residency.

4. Graduate Occupation List
   Make sure your job is listed on the relevant Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) or Regional Occupation List (ROL) for PR eligibility.

Expert Tips for Maximising Your Post-Study Work Experience in Australia 2025

Make the most of your work experience in Australia under the Post Study Work Visa by actively building your professional profile, expanding your network, and aligning your efforts with long-term goals such as PR or career advancement.

• Start Early with Job Search
  Begin applying for jobs before your course ends. Use platforms like SEEK, LinkedIn, and GradConnection to find graduate roles.

• Build a Local Resume & Cover Letter
  Tailor your resume to Australian standards—highlight local education, internships, and soft skills.

• Leverage University Career Services
  Attend career fairs, resume workshops, and mock interviews offered by your university’s career centre.

• Network Strategically
  Join industry events, LinkedIn groups, alumni networks, and professional associations to grow your networking opportunities.

• Focus on Priority Sectors
  Target in-demand sectors like Healthcare, STEM, Education, and IT for longer visa duration and PR pathways.

• Consider Regional Opportunities
  Working in regional Australia can offer extended visa duration and more PR points. Research jobs outside major cities.

• Gain Relevant Work Experience
  Opt for part-time, casual, or volunteer roles in your field while studying to build local experience and references.

• Understand Your Rights
  Know your work rights as a temporary graduate visa holder. Avoid exploitation and report any violations to Fair Work Australia.

• Improve Your English Skills
  Strong English communication skills boost your employability and visa points for future migration.

• Keep Learning & Upskilling
  Take short courses, certifications, or online training relevant to your field to stay competitive.

Also Read: Study In Australia- Unlocking A Complete Guide

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Post Study Work Visa Australia in 2025

Avoiding common mistakes is crucial to ensure your Post Study Work Visa Australia application is successful. Below are frequent errors made by applicants, along with tips to prevent them.

1. Missing or Incomplete Documents

• Failing to upload all required documents (e.g., passport, transcripts, IELTS/PTE results) leads to delays or refusals.
• Use a checklist and triple-check uploads before submission.

2. Late Applications

• Applying after the deadline (within 6 months of course completion) can make you ineligible.
• Mark your calendar and submit early.

3. Not Meeting the Australian Study Requirement

• Applicants often misunderstand this—your course must be CRICOS-registered and at least 92 weeks in duration.
• Confirm course eligibility before applying.

4. Incorrect Visa Stream Selection

• Choosing the wrong stream under subclass 485 (e.g., Graduate Work Stream vs. Post-Higher Education Work Stream).
• Carefully read each stream’s criteria.

5. Poor English Language Preparation

• Submitting invalid or low-score English test results can delay processing.
• Take approved tests early and aim for higher scores.

6. Ignoring Health and Character Requirements

• Skipping police checks or health exams may lead to delays or visa rejection.
• Book medical exams and police clearance in advance.

7. Assuming Work Rights Before Visa Grant

• Starting work before your 485 visa is approved (if previous visa conditions don’t permit) may breach visa terms.
• Wait for the official grant notice or consult migration agents.

Conclusion

The Post Study Work Visa Australia offers a powerful opportunity for international graduates to gain valuable work experience, boost employability, and transition to permanent residency. By understanding the requirements, avoiding common mistakes, and preparing early, you can maximize your chances of a smooth and successful application process.

To learn more about the Post Study Work Visa Australia. Visit TerraTern now.