Subclass 485 Visa Duration
On July 1, 2024, Australia slashed graduate visa durations and lowered the age limit. Calculate your exact eligibility and duration.
Applicant Details
The general age limit is now 35.
Note: The 2-year extension for 'select' IT/Engineering/Nursing degrees was permanently abolished.
You must have lived AND studied in this region to claim the extension.
Visa Duration
2 Years
Age Eligible (Limit is 35)
Base Duration2 Years
July 2024 Cuts
Before July 2024, your degree might have qualified for 4 to 6 years of work rights. The government has permanently abolished the 2-year skills extension and reverted durations to pre-pandemic levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the 485 visa valid for?
As of July 1, 2024, the duration for the Post-Higher Education Work stream has been heavily reduced. Bachelor's and Master's by Coursework graduates receive 2 years. Master's by Research and PhD graduates receive 3 years. Regional study extensions (1 or 2 extra years) still apply.
Did the 485 visa rules change in 2024?
Yes. The Australian government introduced massive cuts to the 485 visa on July 1, 2024. They completely abolished the 2-year extension for 'select degrees' (like engineering, nursing, and IT). They also slashed the standard duration for almost all degree types and lowered the maximum age limit.
What is the new age limit for the 485 visa?
The maximum age limit for most applicants was reduced from 50 down to 35 years old. The only exceptions are for Hong Kong / BNO passport holders, and students graduating with a Master's by Research or a PhD—these groups retain the 50-year-old age limit.
Do masters students get a 3 year 485 visa?
Only if it is a Master's by RESEARCH. If you completed a standard Master's by COURSEWORK, your visa duration was cut from the previous 3-5 years down to just 2 years under the new rules.