Subclass 485 Recent Changes: Age Limit and English Requirements

Why the 485 settings keep changing

The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) has been one of the more frequently updated visas in recent years. The Australian government has revised several eligibility settings — including the maximum age limit, the English-language requirement, and the timing rules for applying — and has reshaped the visa's streams.

Because these changes happen periodically, the most important habit is to read the current rules directly from the official Department of Home Affairs page rather than relying on what was true in a previous year. This guide explains what to check, not fixed numbers.

• Age limit, English requirement and timing rules have all been revised
• The 485 streams themselves have been reshaped
• Always confirm the current settings on Home Affairs before applying

The maximum age limit

The subclass 485 has a maximum age limit, meaning applicants generally must be under a certain age at the time of applying. This limit has been adjusted, and some applicants in specific circumstances may have a different limit under the rules in force.

Because the figure can change, this guide does not state a number. Check the current maximum age, and any exceptions, on the official subclass 485 page before you plan your application timing around it.

The English-language requirement

Applicants generally need to demonstrate English proficiency for the 485, typically through an accepted English test result at or above a set level. The accepted tests, the minimum scores, and the validity period of results are defined by the government.

Important for planning: the test accepted for a student visa is not automatically the same one accepted for the 485, and which tests are accepted and their score thresholds can differ. Confirm the current accepted tests and scores on the official Home Affairs page, and book your test in good time.

• An English test result at or above a set level is generally required
• Accepted tests and minimum scores are set by the government
• Test validity has a time limit — check it before applying
• Verify the current English requirement on Home Affairs

Application timing rules

There is generally a window within which you must apply for the 485 after completing your studies, and you usually must be in Australia (or meet location rules) when applying and when the visa is decided, depending on the current settings.

Missing the timing window can affect eligibility, so map your course completion date against the current rules early. The official page sets out the timing requirements — treat it as authoritative.

How to stay current

The simplest way to avoid acting on outdated information is to start every plan at the official source. Read the Home Affairs subclass 485 page, note the date you viewed it, and re-check close to your application time in case settings have moved.

If a rule is unclear or your situation is unusual, the government's official guidance is the authority. This is general information, not immigration advice — rules change frequently, so verify on immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before acting.