Navigating Australian visa options after completing your studies can be stressful, especially if your student visa has already lapsed. Many international graduates wonder: can I apply for 485 visa if my student visa has expired? The good news is that yes, it’s often possible, but strict rules apply. The Subclass 485 visa, also known as the Temporary Graduate visa, allows recent graduates to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the latest rules, eligibility, steps, and tips to help you transition smoothly. Whether you’re searching for 485 visa after student visa expired or temporary graduate visa after student visa expiry, we’ve got you covered with up-to-date info from official Australian Government sources.
As of February 2026, the Department of Home Affairs emphasizes timely applications to avoid complications. If your student visa expired recently, you might still qualify for the 485 visa within 6 months student visa expired, but acting fast is crucial. Let’s dive in.
Understanding the Subclass 485 Visa
The Subclass 485 visa is designed for international students who’ve completed their studies in Australia. It comes in three main streams: Post-Vocational Education Work, Post-Higher Education Work, and Second Post-Higher Education Work. This visa bridges the gap between student life and potential permanent residency pathways, offering work rights without restrictions.
Key benefits include full work rights, the ability to bring family members, and stays ranging from 18 months to several years, depending on your stream and qualifications. For instance, Hong Kong passport holders can stay up to 5 years in certain streams. Costs start from AUD 2,300, with processing times varying—check the official visa processing tool for estimates.
If your student visa has expired, don’t panic. The core rule is that you must have held a student visa in the last six months before applying. This means even if it’s lapsed, as long as it’s within that window, you could be eligible.
Rules and Timeline for Applying After Student Visa Expiry
The big question: Can I apply for 485 visa if my student visa has expired? According to the Australian Department of Home Affairs, you can, provided you meet the six-month rule. You must apply while in Australia and hold an eligible visa at the time of application—typically a bridging visa if your student visa has expired.
Here’s the timeline breakdown:
If more than six months have passed since you last held a student visa, you’re ineligible for the 485 visa after student visa expired. In that case, explore other options like a visitor visa or skilled migration pathways.
Eligibility Requirements: What Changes If Applying Within 6 Months?
Eligibility for the temporary graduate visa after student visa expiry hinges on several factors. Core requirements remain the same, but applying within the six-month post-student visa window simplifies things—you don’t need to prove ongoing study ties.
Standard criteria include:
- Age: 35 or under (exceptions for certain nationalities or PhD holders).
- Qualification: Recent CRICOS-registered course (at least 16 months in Australia).
- English Proficiency: Valid test results (changes effective from August 2025, e.g., higher scores for some tests).
- Health and Character: Meet Australian standards, including police checks.
- Health Insurance: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) or equivalent.
If applying 485 visa within 6 months student visa expired, the key difference is your current visa status. You must hold a substantive or bridging visa—not be unlawful. For streams:
No stream changes post-application, so choose wisely.
Practical Steps to Apply for the 485 Visa
Ready to apply? Follow these steps for a smooth process:
- Check Eligibility: Use the Department of Home Affairs’ online tools to confirm you meet criteria, including the six-month rules.
- Gather Documents: Collect your completion letter, transcripts, English test results, passport, and health insurance proof. If your student visa expired, apply for a BVE via ImmiAccount first—it’s free and quick.
- Create ImmiAccount: Log in or sign up on the official immigration portal.
- Lodge Application: Select Subclass 485, choose your stream, and upload evidence. Pay the fee (AUD 2,300+ for main applicant).
- Biometrics and Health Checks: Attend if required.
- Wait for Outcome: Bridging Visa A (BVA) activates if needed, allowing work/stay during processing.
If offshore due to expiry, return on a visitor visa isn’t straightforward—plan ahead to stay onshore.
Important Deadlines and Tips to Avoid Mistakes
Deadlines are non-negotiable: Apply within six months of course completion and while having held a student visa recently. Miss this, and options dwindle.
Tips:
- Act Early: Don’t wait until the last day—processing can take months.
- Avoid Unlawful Status: If expired, get a BVE immediately to prevent bans or complications.
- Common Pitfalls: Incomplete documents lead to refusals. Ensure your qualification matches the stream, and double-check English tests (post-2025 rules require higher scores for IELTS equivalents).
- Seek Professional Help: Migration agents can spot issues early.
- Monitor Changes: Visa policies evolve—check official sites regularly.
By following these, you’ll boost your chances of success.
FAQs on the 485 Visa After Student Visa Expiry
Here are answers to top queries:
Q: Can I apply for 485 visa if my student visa has expired but within 6 months? A: Yes, if you held a student visa in the last six months and apply onshore with an eligible visa like a BVE.
Q: What if more than 6 months have passed since my student visa expired? A: You’re ineligible for the 485. Consider other visas like skilled migration or depart Australia.
Q: Can I work while waiting for my 485 visa? A: Yes, if on a bridging visa with work rights (usually granted if your previous visa allowed work).
Q: Do I need to be in Australia to apply? A: Absolutely—offshore applications are invalid.
Q: How long does processing take? A: Varies; use the official tool, but expect 3-6 months or more.
How Edvise Hub Can Help
For personalized guidance, Edvise Hub offers expert visa advice and application support for international students. Their team streamlines the process, ensuring compliance with rules like applying for a 485 visa after student visa expired.
About Fahad Shamin
Fahad Shamin is a Registered Migration Agent (MARA #2619225) with years of experience in Australian immigration. His expertise in student-to-graduate transitions helps applicants navigate complexities, from eligibility checks to appeals, ensuring a stress-free journey.
Conclusion
In summary, yes—you can I apply for 485 visa if my student visa has expired, as long as it’s within the six-month window and you follow the rules. Stay informed via official sources, act promptly, and consider professional help to secure your future in Australia. If you’re facing temporary graduate visa after student visa expiry challenges, start your application today for peace of mind. Safe travels on your visa journey!
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