Last Updated on September 1, 2025
Most students think of Australia for its top universities, sunny weather, and an exciting lifestyle. But what truly sets a student’s study abroad journey in Australia apart is what comes after they graduate. Most seek freedom to work and explore the Australian culture even further. Well, that is something offered by the post study work visa in Australia (Subclass 485 / Australia 485 visa / PSW in Australia), which isn’t just about staying longer but rather about freedom.
Freedom to-
- Explore global career-related opportunities
- Seek PR in Australia and much more!
So, a post study work visa in Australia ensures that instead of worrying about “what next,” you get time and space to plan your future in Australia at your own pace. For Indian students considering study in Australia for Indian students, this visa is a key part of the overall experience within the education system in Australia. Read further to know more!
Latest Updates On Post Study Work Visa In Australia
- Reduced Duration: Bachelor’s and Master’s (coursework/extended) graduates now get only 2 years, while Master’s by Research & PhD graduates get 3 years of work rights.
- Age Limit Cut: The maximum eligible age for applicants has been reduced to 35 years (earlier 50).
- No 2-Year Extension: From mid-2024, graduates can no longer apply for the additional two-year extension of post study work visa rights.
What is the Post Study Work Visa in Australia?
The post study work visa in Australia allows international graduates to live, study, and work after completing their course. Following are some key details:
- Visa name: Temporary Graduate Visa (Australia 485 visa)
- Streams: Graduate Work Stream & Post-Study Work Stream
- Stay duration: 2–4 years (varies by qualification & location)
- Work rights: Full-time, in any sector
- Pathways: Can lead to permanent residency
Allowed vs Not Allowed – Post-Study Work Visa in Australia
| Category | Allowed | Not Allowed |
| Work Rights | Full-time work in any field | No visa extension after expiry |
| Business | Start your own business / be self-employed | Cannot apply for 485 at airport/border |
| Travel | Free travel in & out of Australia | Must apply for 485 from inside Australia |
| Stay Duration | 2–6 years (Bachelor 4, Master 5, PhD 6 in priority fields) | No extra stay unless switching to skilled/employer visa |
| While on Student Visa (before 485) | 48 hrs per fortnight work allowed during semester | Exceeding 48 hrs may lead to cancellation |
| Bridging Period (waiting for 485 grant) | Student visa rules still apply | No full-time work until 485 is approved |
Types of PWS in australia
There are two streams under the Australia 485 visa:
| Stream | Who Can Apply | Duration |
| Graduate Work Stream | For students with skills in demand on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL) | 18 months |
| Post-Study Work Stream | For students completing higher education (Bachelor, Master, PhD) from a CRICOS-approved institution | 2–4 years |
Duration of Stay
The stay period depends on your qualification:
| Qualification | Stay Duration |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 2 years |
| Master’s by Coursework | 2–3 years |
| Master’s by Research | 3 years |
| PhD | 4 years |
Note: Students who choose to study in regional areas of Australia may receive an extra 1–2 years extension.
Benefits of Post Study Work Visa in Australia
Following are some reasons as to why a post study work visa in Australia is such a big advantage:
- No restrictions on job type or employer.
- Practical exposure to boost your CV.
- Makes you eligible for Australia’s Skilled Migration visas.
- Extra time in Australia if you studied in smaller cities.
- Spouse/partner and children can be included in the same visa.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a post study work visa, you must meet these requirements:
- Hold a valid student visa in the last 6 months.
- Complete a CRICOS-registered course (minimum 2 years).
- Be under 50 years of age.
- Meet the English proficiency requirement (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL).
- Have health insurance for the duration of stay.
Costs Involved
The Australia 485 visa comes with an application fee:
| Applicant Type | Fee (AUD) |
| Primary Applicant | 1,895 |
| Spouse/Partner | 950 |
| Child (under 18) | 475 |
Note: Prices may change; always confirm on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
Application Process
Applying for the post study work visa in Australia is pretty straightforward:
- Complete your course (minimum 2 years) from a CRICOS-registered institution.
- Prepare documents like a passport, transcripts, English test results, and health cover.
- Apply online via the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Pay the fee and include dependents if required.
- Wait for the outcome (usually 4–6 months).
Career Opportunities
The post study work visa in Australia lets you work in any job. However, for PR, focusing on skilled jobs is smarter. Some high-demand sectors are:
- Information Technology
- Engineering
- Nursing & Healthcare
- Accounting & Finance
- Teaching & Education
Pathways to PR After Post Study Work Visa
Many Indian students use this visa as a bridge to permanent residency. PR options available:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Employer-Sponsored Visa (Subclass 186)
- Regional Skilled Visa (Subclass 491/494)
Quick Comparison: PSW in Australia vs Canada vs UK
| Country | Visa Name | Duration | PR Opportunities |
| Australia | Subclass 485 (PSW in Australia) | 2–4 years (+ regional extension) | Strong |
| Canada | Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | 1–3 years | Very Strong |
| UK | Graduate Route Visa | 2 years (3 for PhD) | Moderate |
If you are someone who is interested in study in Australia for Indian students, contact experts at Admissify today to get started with your Australia 485 visa / PSW in Australia journey!
FAQs
Yes, through the Temporary Graduate Visa (Australia 485 visa / PSW in Australia), valid for 2-4 years.
You can apply for PR, employer sponsorship, or extend via regional stay options.
482 is an employer-sponsored work visa, while 485 is a post study work visa in Australia.
Graduates of CRICOS-registered courses (minimum 2 years) meeting age and English requirements.
Apply online via the Department of Home Affairs with required documents and fee.
AUD 1,895 for the main applicant.
No, the PSW visa does not require employer sponsorship.
It’s a regional skilled visa offering a pathway to permanent residency.
Yes, proof of English proficiency (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL) is required.
The post study work visa in Australia lasts 2–4 years, but graduates in regional areas may get an extension up to 6 years.
Gaurav Kandari is a seasoned study abroad consultant with over 5 years of experience, specializing in guiding students to the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia. An avid traveler, he draws on his global adventures to enrich his consulting, providing invaluable insights to aspiring scholars.
