If you’ve studied in Australia and you’re planning your next step, the Australia 485 visa changes introduced over the past two years are worth understanding properly. The Temporary Graduate visa subclass 485 has always been a popular bridge between study and skilled migration, but recent updates have made it more expensive and stricter to qualify for. This guide breaks down what’s changed, what it costs now, and what you need to do to apply successfully.
What Is the Subclass 485 Visa?
The subclass 485 visa lets recent international graduates live and work in Australia temporarily after finishing their course. It’s split into two streams -Post-Higher Education Work and Post-Vocational Education Work (renamed from the older Graduate Work and Post-Study Work streams).
What Are the Latest Changes to the Australian 485 Visa?
The biggest recent update is the visa fee increase that took effect on 1 March 2026, under the Migration Amendment (Temporary Graduate Visa Application Charge) Regulations 2026. Along with the fee hike, age and English requirements have also become tighter since mid-2024.
Here’s a quick summary of what’s new:
- Higher application fees from 1 March 2026
- Reduced age limit -down from 50 to 35 years (with some exceptions)
- Stricter English requirement -minimum IELTS 6.5 (up from 6.0)
- Shorter English test validity -now 1 year instead of 3
- No more pandemic-era 2-year extensions
- Stricter timing rule -your study must meet the Australian study requirement within 6 months of applying
How Much Does the 485 Visa Cost Now?
From 1 March 2026, the base application charge for a primary applicant rose to AUD 4,600. Dependent fees also increased, though Pacific Island and Timor-Leste passport holders remain on the lower fee structure.
| Applicant Type | Fee Before March 2026 | Fee From 1 March 2026 |
| Primary applicant | Lower base charge | AUD 4,600 |
| Dependant (18+) | Lower base charge | AUD 2,300 |
| Dependant (under 18) | Lower base charge | AUD 1,160 |
| Pacific/Timor-Leste primary applicant | Concession rate | Concession rate retained |
Note: The Department of Home Affairs does not refund your fee if the visa is refused, so accuracy in your application matters more than ever.
Who Is Eligible for the 485 Visa in 2026?
To qualify, you generally need to be under 35, hold a recently completed eligible qualification, and have held a student visa within the last six months. English test scores must now meet the higher IELTS 6.5 benchmark (or equivalent).
Quick eligibility checklist:
- Be 35 years or younger at the time of application (exceptions apply for some passport holders and research graduates)
- Be onshore in Australia when you apply
- Have held an eligible student visa in the past 6 months
- Meet the Australian study requirement within 6 months of your application
- Meet the current English language requirement
- Hold health insurance and pass health and character checks
How Long Does the 485 Visa Processing Take?
Processing times vary by stream and how complete your documents are, but most applications take a few months once lodged correctly. Missing documents or incorrect timing evidence are the most common causes of delay.
Given how tight the timing rule now is, working with a Registered Migration Agent early in the process can help you avoid the small errors that lead to refusals or unnecessary delays.
What Documents Do You Need to Apply?
You’ll typically need your passport, evidence of your completed qualification, CoE records, English test results, health insurance, and police clearance certificates. Each stream has slightly different document requirements, so it pays to check carefully before lodging.
Common documents required:
- Valid passport and visa history
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and completion letter
- Academic transcripts
- English test results (valid within 1 year)
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Police clearance certificates
- Skills assessment (if required for your stream)
Ready to Apply? Here’s Your Next Step
The 485 visa rules move fast, and a small timing or documentation mistake can cost you thousands in non-refundable fees. Before you lodge, it’s worth getting your application checked by someone who follows these updates closely.
Why Work With a Migration Professional?
Given how often the rules shift, many graduates now prefer expert help over a DIY application. If you’re based in South Australia, working with the Best Migration Agent Adelaide can offer one of the simplest ways to protect your application from avoidable refusals.
FAQ
What is the current 485 visa application fee?
As of 1 March 2026, the base fee for a primary applicant is AUD 4,600, with additional charges for dependants.
What is the age limit for the 485 visa now?
Most applicants must be under 35 years old, down from the previous limit of 50, with a few exceptions for certain passport holders and research degree graduates.
Do I need IELTS 6.5 for the 485 visa?
Yes, most applicants now need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (or an equivalent test), and results are only valid for one year.
Can I still get a 2-year visa extension after COVID rules ended?
No, the pandemic-era two-year extensions have been removed, so visa length now depends on your qualification and stream.
How soon after graduating do I need to apply?
Your qualification must meet the Australian study requirement within 6 months of lodging your application, so timing your application correctly is essential.
Is the 485 visa fee refunded if my application is refused?
No, the Department of Home Affairs does not refund the application charge if your visa is refused, which is why accurate documentation matters.
