Australia · For Indian Applicants
Subclass 485 Post-Study Work Visa for Indian Graduates
After graduation, Indian students unlock the Subclass 485 to gain Australian work experience. So this guide explains both 485 streams, the new July 2024 caps, and how to roll into PR.
8 min read
Table of contents
- 1. The two 485 streams: Graduate Work vs Post-Higher Ed
- 2. How long is the 485 in 2026?
- 3. English and age limit for the 485
- 4. Fees for the 485 in INR (2026)
- 5. Work rights and tax during 485
- 6. From 485 to permanent residency
- 7. Bachelor 485 vs Master Research 485
- 8. Frequently asked questions
- 9. Sources & citations
The two 485 streams: Graduate Work vs Post-Higher Ed
First, the 485 has two streams. The Post-Higher Education stream covers Bachelor and Master grads.
The Graduate Work stream is now closed to new applicants since July 2024.
So most Indian grads use the Post-Higher Education stream only.
How long is the 485 in 2026?
Next, Bachelor grads get 2 years. Master coursework grads get 2 years too.
Master research and PhD grads get 3 years.
Also, regional graduates get an extra 1 to 2 years on top, depending on study city.
English and age limit for the 485
Then, you must score IELTS 6.0 overall, with at least 5.0 in each section. PTE 50+ also works.
Age cap dropped to 35 from July 2024. Master research applicants stay capped at 50.
So Indian grads should apply within 6 months of graduation, before age becomes an issue.
Fees for the 485 in INR (2026)
Next, the visa charge is AUD 2,235 (INR 1,22,000) for the main applicant.
Spouse adds AUD 1,115. Each child adds AUD 555.
Also, OSHC for the visa length costs INR 60,000 to INR 1,80,000.
Work rights and tax during 485
Then, the 485 gives full work rights. So you can take any job, any hours, anywhere in Australia.
Tax File Number (TFN) is needed before salary credit.
Also, super contribution is paid by employer at 11.5% of base pay.
From 485 to permanent residency
Finally, use the 485 years to clear ACS and meet 1-year ICT work for 189/190.
Most Indian IT grads pivot to 491 with state nomination after 12 to 18 months.
So PR usually lands within the same 5-year regional study journey.
Bachelor 485 vs Master Research 485
| Feature | Bachelor / Master coursework | Master research / PhD |
|---|---|---|
| Visa length | 2 years | 3 to 4 years |
| Regional extension | +1 year | +2 years |
| Age cap | 35 | 50 |
| English needed | IELTS 6.0 | IELTS 6.0 |
| Visa fee | AUD 2,235 | AUD 2,235 |
| OSHC needed | Yes | Yes |
| Spouse work rights | Full | Full |
| Path to PR | Via 189/190/491 | Easier 189 due to age |
Frequently asked questions
Sources & citations
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