The subclass 485 visa, also known as the Temporary Graduate visa, has long been a go-to option for international students finishing their Australian studies. It provides post-study work rights, allowing graduates to live, work, and explore career opportunities in Australia. But with major policy changes implemented since mid-2024 and carrying into 2026—including a reduced age limit, stricter English requirements, and shorter durations—many are asking: Is the 485 visa still worth it in 2026? Especially for those over 35?
In this up-to-date guide, we’ll explore the 485 visa eligibility, 485 visa requirements, 485 visa processing time, potential 485 visa extension options, and a balanced look at the 485 visa pros cons alternatives for over 35. Whether you’re a recent graduate or planning your studies, this post helps you decide if the Temporary Graduate visa fits your migration goals in 2026.
Current Rules for the Subclass 485 Visa in 2026
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) comes in key streams: Post-Higher Education Work (for degree holders), Post-Vocational Education Work (for diplomas/trades), and Second Post-Higher Education Work (regional extensions). As of 2026, core 485 visa requirements include:
- Completing a CRICOS-registered course in Australia (at least 2 academic years for most streams).
- Holding or having held a Student visa (subclass 500) in the last 6 months.
- Applying within 6 months of course completion.
- Meeting health, character, and insurance requirements.
- English proficiency: Minimum IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 5.5), results within 12 months of application.
The biggest shift? The age cap. Most applicants must be 35 years or under when applying. Exceptions apply for Hong Kong SAR or British National (Overseas) passport holders (up to 50), and for Master’s by Research or PhD graduates (up to 50 in the Post-Higher Education stream). For many, this change from the previous 50-year limit makes the visa inaccessible if you’re older.
Stay durations vary: Typically 2 years for Bachelor’s/Master’s coursework, 3 years for research degrees/PhDs, with 1-2 extra years possible via regional study extensions.
485 visa processing time in 2026 averages 2-4 months for 90% of Post-Higher Education applications (based on recent trends), though it can stretch to 5 months for vocational streams or complex cases. Apply early via ImmiAccount to avoid delays.
485 Visa Pros in 2026
Despite tighter rules, the subclass 485 visa offers strong advantages:
- Unrestricted work rights: Full-time work in any field—no employer sponsorship needed. Gain valuable Australian experience for skilled migration points.
- Family inclusion: Bring partners and children (with work/study rights for eligible family).
- Pathway builder: Time to improve skills, English, or pursue regional work for points-tested visas like 189/190/491.
- Regional extensions: The 485 visa extension via Second Post-Higher Education stream adds 1-2 years if you studied/worked in regional Australia—still available in 2026 for eligible graduates.
- Flexibility: Live anywhere (except strict regional conditions for extensions), study further, or job hunt freely.
For under-35 graduates in high-demand fields, it’s a solid bridge to permanent residency.
485 Visa Cons in 2026
The changes have drawbacks, especially for certain groups:
- Age restriction: The 35-year cap excludes many mature students—485 visa pros cons alternatives for over 35 often lean toward “not worth it” if you’re ineligible.
- Shorter stays: Reduced from previous longer periods (e.g., up to 4-6 years in some cases), now mostly 2-3 years base.
- Higher English bar: IELTS 6.5 pushes preparation time and costs.
- No automatic PR path: Temporary only—must transition to skilled visas, which are competitive.
- Costs and uncertainty: Application fee around AUD 1,895+, plus health checks. Processing can delay plans amid policy flux.
For over-35 applicants without exceptions, the visa is often out of reach, forcing earlier alternatives.
Alternatives to the 485 Visa in 2026 (Especially for Over 35)
If the Temporary Graduate visa doesn’t fit, consider these:
- Skilled Independent (189) or Nominated (190/491): Direct PR pathways if you score high on points (age, English, skills assessment). Over-35 applicants get fewer points but can qualify with strong profiles.
- Employer-Sponsored visas (482/186): TSS or ENS—gain sponsorship for work experience leading to PR.
- Regional visas: 491 or DAMA options reward regional commitment.
- Student visa extensions: Continue studying for new qualifications (but onshore switches from 485/visitor restricted).
- Working Holiday or other temporary visas: Limited for older applicants.
- Partner or family visas: If eligible through relationships.
For over-35 graduates, focus on skills assessments and points optimization early.
How Edvise Hub Can Help with Your 485 Visa or Alternatives
Unsure about 485 visa eligibility or navigating 2026 changes? Edvise Hub, a MARA-registered consultancy, specializes in Australian visas for international students and graduates. They offer free initial assessments, check your 485 visa requirements, guide on 485 visa extension eligibility, and advise on alternatives like skilled migration for over-35 applicants.
With expertise in post-study pathways, Edvise Hub handles ImmiAccount lodgments, document prep, and strategy to boost approval chances. Many clients secure visas faster or pivot successfully to PR routes. Contact Edvise Hub for personalized, up-to-date advice—don’t risk DIY mistakes in a changing landscape.
Final Verdict: Is the 485 Visa Worth It in 2026?
Yes—if you’re under 35, meet the English and study criteria, and want unrestricted work experience to build toward PR. The subclass 485 visa remains valuable for gaining points and networks.
No—or less so—if you’re over 35 without exceptions, as eligibility barriers make alternatives more practical.
Weigh your age, qualifications, and goals. Policies evolve, so check official Home Affairs sites regularly. With expert help like Edvise Hub, you can make the smartest move for your future in Australia.
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