How Long the Subclass 485 Visa Lasts by Qualification Level

Why duration depends on your qualification

The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is granted for a set period that is not the same for every graduate. As a general principle, the higher your qualification level, the longer the stay tends to be — a doctoral graduate typically receives a longer period than a master's graduate, who in turn generally receives longer than a bachelor's graduate.

The exact periods are set by the Australian government and have been adjusted in recent years. For that reason this guide explains the structure rather than quoting fixed durations — confirm the current stay period for your qualification on the official Department of Home Affairs subclass 485 page.

What factors can change the stay period

Beyond the qualification level itself, the government has at times applied other factors that can affect how long a 485 visa runs. These can include the type of qualification, the field of study, and where in Australia you studied, depending on the settings in force.

Because these settings are reviewed and can change, the only reliable way to know your stay period is to read the current rules on the official source. Do not rely on durations quoted in older guides or unofficial tables.

• Qualification level (bachelor / master / doctoral) is the main driver
• Qualification type and field of study can matter under some settings
• Study location in Australia has affected duration under some policies
• All of the above are set by Home Affairs and can change

Reading the official duration table

Home Affairs publishes the stay periods for the subclass 485 on its visa page. When you check it, match your situation carefully: the stream you qualify under (higher-education or vocational), your qualification level, and any field or location conditions in force.

If anything is unclear, the official page and the government's own guidance are authoritative — not third-party summaries. This is general information, not immigration advice.

Planning around a temporary visa

Because the 485 is temporary, it helps to plan early: note your visa's expiry, understand any conditions attached, and research what — if anything — you might do next well before the visa ends. Some graduates explore other visa pathways, but each has separate criteria.

Whatever you plan, base your timeline on the actual grant period shown on your visa and the current rules on immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. Rules change frequently — verify before acting.