Post-Study Work Rights in Australia: What You Need to Know (A 2026 Guide)
Australia has continuously been one of the most engaging and appealing destinations for students across the globe—not just because of its high-quality education, lively multicultural cities, and strong economic growth. Post-study work rights provide a bridge between academic life and professional work experience, offering a gateway to prosperous career progression opportunities and serving as a stepping stone to longer-term visa options.
Post-Study Work Rights in Australia
Post-study work rights allow students from across the globe who graduate from Australian-based institutions to live in Australia on a temporary visa and work full-time after completing their studies. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) — now generally referred to as the Post-Higher Education Work Visa — grants temporary immigration status and full work rights following the completion of a CRICOS-registered Australian course.
This visa allows you to live and continue your stay in Australia temporarily, work full-time in any job or sector, include immediate family members in the application (dependents; visa conditions may apply), and gain valuable Australian work experience that can strengthen future skilled migration pathways.
Live and continue your stay in Australia temporarily
Work full-time in any job or sector
Include immediate family members in the application (dependents; visa conditions may apply)
Gain valuable Australian work experience that can strengthen future skilled migration pathways
Different Streams of the Temporary Graduate Visa (TGV)
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) has multiple streams designed to suit different qualifications and career goals. Each stream is tailored to specific levels of education and occupational pathways in Australia.
Below are the main streams available under the 485 visa:
Post-Higher Education Work Stream
For graduates of higher education degrees (e.g., Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD). This is one of the most recognized streams and is suitable for eligible students seeking temporary work rights after completing their higher education in Australia.
Post-Vocational Education Work Stream
Formerly known as the “Graduate Work Stream,” this stream is designed for students with specific technical, vocational, or skills-related qualifications that align with occupations listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation Lists.
Prerequisites for Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)
Below are the key prerequisites you must meet to be eligible for post-study work rights under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485).
To qualify for the 485 visa, applicants must satisfy specific age, qualification, visa, and compliance requirements set by the Australian immigration authorities.
Be under 35 years of age (exemptions may apply for certain research degrees or specific passport holders).
Hold a recent Student visa (subclass 500) or have held one within the last six months.
Have completed an eligible Australian qualification from a CRICOS-registered course.
Achieve the required band score in an approved English language proficiency test.
Meet health and character requirements with valid supporting certificates.
Apply within the given timeframe (generally within six months of completing your academic qualification).
Imperative to Know: Your course generally must meet the Australian Study Requirement, which actually means full-time study enrolment in Australia for at least 2 academic years.
How Long Can You Live and Work? (2026 Updates)
Australia’s post-study work period has evolved over the past few years. As of 2026, the framework is more streamlined, aligning with standard graduate pathways while phasing out some of the previously extended periods.
Qualification
Approx. Post-Study Work Duration
Bachelor’s Degree
Up to 2 years
Master’s Degree (Coursework/Research)
Up to 2–3 years
Doctoral Degree (PhD)
Up to 3 years
These updates reflect contemporary changes where additional 2-year extensions for select degrees have been phased out, creating a post-study work period more consistent with standard graduate pathways rather than long-term work stays.
Key Policy Updates Since 2023
Australia has updated its post-study work policies several times since 2023, and these policies continue to evolve. Students and graduates should regularly check official portals to stay informed about the latest changes and requirements.
Extended Rights Introduced
In 2023, an extension allowed some graduates in high-demand fields (e.g., STEM, nursing, engineering) to stay longer—for example, 4 years for bachelor’s, 5 years for master’s, and 6 years for PhDs—if their degree was on an eligible list.
Policy Update (2024–2025)
These extended rights were scaled down, and by mid-2024, most students now follow more standard and fixed durations based on the qualification level they applied for.
Age Limit Reduced
The qualifying age was reduced from 50 years to 35 years, making the policy more streamlined. Previously, some applicants could still qualify under certain streams despite being older.
Work Conditions After Finishing Education (Graduating)
You’re allowed to work as a full-time employee with a valid subclass 485 visa.
No employer restrictions — you can apply for jobs in any sector of your choice.
This visa enables eligibility for skilled migration visas or employer-sponsored visas in Australia.
Why the Post-Study Work Visa Matters
For many international students, post-study work rights provide several important opportunities and benefits in Australia.
An opportunity to gain real-world and valuable experience in the Australian job market.
An opportunity to build professional networks and strengthen career prospects.
A cornerstone to Permanent Residency (PR) through skilled migration programs.
A way to help address workforce shortages in key industries, benefiting both students and employers while boosting Australia’s economic growth.
Tips for Students Across the Globe
Plan and Research Early
Initiate your 485 visa application planning as soon as you complete your course requirements. Early preparation ensures a smoother transition from student to temporary graduate status.
Understand Australian Study Requirements
Only studies completed in Australia that meet specific length and qualification criteria are considered eligible for post-study work rights. Make sure your course meets these requirements before applying.
Stay Updated on Policy Changes
Rules and policies regarding post-study work visas are subject to change with government migration strategies. Frequently check official sources such as the Department of Home Affairs or Study Australia to stay informed.
Consider Skilled Occupation Pathways
If you aim for a longer-term stay or Permanent Residency (PR), explore options like employer sponsorship, state nomination, or skilled migration pathways. Planning these pathways early can improve your chances of a successful transition.
Final Thoughts
Australia continues to offer one of the most competitive and appealing post-study work environments for students across the globe. As of 2026, extended stays for select degrees are no longer widely available, but graduates from different countries can still gain valuable work experience and build strong career foundations through the Temporary Graduate (485) visa system.
It is essential to keep researching and stay updated on policy changes. Understanding your visa options, monitoring official portals, and planning ahead are key to maximizing the benefits of your Australian study experience and advancing your career opportunities.
Don’t forget to check your eligibility if you are interested as the assessment is absolutely free of cost. Please fill out the assessment form and one of our Expert Immigration Consultants will get back to you at the earliest.
Post-Study Work Rights in Australia: What You Need to Know (A 2026 Guide)
Australia has continuously been one of the most engaging and appealing destinations for students across the globe—not just because of its high-quality education, lively multicultural cities, and strong economic growth. Post-study work rights provide a bridge between academic life and professional work experience, offering a gateway to prosperous career progression opportunities and serving as a stepping stone to longer-term visa options.
Post-Study Work Rights in Australia
Post-study work rights allow students from across the globe who graduate from Australian-based institutions to live in Australia on a temporary visa and work full-time after completing their studies. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) — now generally referred to as the Post-Higher Education Work Visa — grants temporary immigration status and full work rights following the completion of a CRICOS-registered Australian course.
This visa allows you to live and continue your stay in Australia temporarily, work full-time in any job or sector, include immediate family members in the application (dependents; visa conditions may apply), and gain valuable Australian work experience that can strengthen future skilled migration pathways.
Different Streams of the Temporary Graduate Visa (TGV)
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) has multiple streams designed to suit different qualifications and career goals. Each stream is tailored to specific levels of education and occupational pathways in Australia.
Below are the main streams available under the 485 visa:
For graduates of higher education degrees (e.g., Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD). This is one of the most recognized streams and is suitable for eligible students seeking temporary work rights after completing their higher education in Australia.
Formerly known as the “Graduate Work Stream,” this stream is designed for students with specific technical, vocational, or skills-related qualifications that align with occupations listed on Australia’s Skilled Occupation Lists.
Prerequisites for Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)
Below are the key prerequisites you must meet to be eligible for post-study work rights under the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485).
To qualify for the 485 visa, applicants must satisfy specific age, qualification, visa, and compliance requirements set by the Australian immigration authorities.
Imperative to Know: Your course generally must meet the Australian Study Requirement, which actually means full-time study enrolment in Australia for at least 2 academic years.
How Long Can You Live and Work? (2026 Updates)
Australia’s post-study work period has evolved over the past few years. As of 2026, the framework is more streamlined, aligning with standard graduate pathways while phasing out some of the previously extended periods.
These updates reflect contemporary changes where additional 2-year extensions for select degrees have been phased out, creating a post-study work period more consistent with standard graduate pathways rather than long-term work stays.
Key Policy Updates Since 2023
Australia has updated its post-study work policies several times since 2023, and these policies continue to evolve. Students and graduates should regularly check official portals to stay informed about the latest changes and requirements.
Extended Rights Introduced
In 2023, an extension allowed some graduates in high-demand fields (e.g., STEM, nursing, engineering) to stay longer—for example, 4 years for bachelor’s, 5 years for master’s, and 6 years for PhDs—if their degree was on an eligible list.
Policy Update (2024–2025)
These extended rights were scaled down, and by mid-2024, most students now follow more standard and fixed durations based on the qualification level they applied for.
Age Limit Reduced
The qualifying age was reduced from 50 years to 35 years, making the policy more streamlined. Previously, some applicants could still qualify under certain streams despite being older.
Work Conditions After Finishing Education (Graduating)
Why the Post-Study Work Visa Matters
For many international students, post-study work rights provide several important opportunities and benefits in Australia.
Tips for Students Across the Globe
Plan and Research Early
Initiate your 485 visa application planning as soon as you complete your course requirements. Early preparation ensures a smoother transition from student to temporary graduate status.
Understand Australian Study Requirements
Only studies completed in Australia that meet specific length and qualification criteria are considered eligible for post-study work rights. Make sure your course meets these requirements before applying.
Stay Updated on Policy Changes
Rules and policies regarding post-study work visas are subject to change with government migration strategies. Frequently check official sources such as the Department of Home Affairs or Study Australia to stay informed.
Consider Skilled Occupation Pathways
If you aim for a longer-term stay or Permanent Residency (PR), explore options like employer sponsorship, state nomination, or skilled migration pathways. Planning these pathways early can improve your chances of a successful transition.
Final Thoughts
Australia continues to offer one of the most competitive and appealing post-study work environments for students across the globe. As of 2026, extended stays for select degrees are no longer widely available, but graduates from different countries can still gain valuable work experience and build strong career foundations through the Temporary Graduate (485) visa system.
It is essential to keep researching and stay updated on policy changes. Understanding your visa options, monitoring official portals, and planning ahead are key to maximizing the benefits of your Australian study experience and advancing your career opportunities.
Don’t forget to check your eligibility if you are interested as the assessment is absolutely free of cost. Please fill out the assessment form and one of our Expert Immigration Consultants will get back to you at the earliest.
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