Post Study Work Visa Options from Melbourne Universities
"Australia has one of the most generous post-study work rights in the world. Allowing international graduates to stay and work for up to four years after finishing their studies."
If you just finished your degree or diploma in Melbourne, this chance could be the start of a rewarding career and a place to live for a long time. There are more than just world-class universities in Melbourne. It's also a place where ambitious graduates can start their careers, get experience around the world, and make a name for themselves in their field.
But here's the hard part: figuring out how to use the post-study work visa system in Australia, especially the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), can feel like learning a whole new language. It's easy to get confused with all the rules about who can apply, the different types of visas, the processing times, and the most recent changes.
That's why you need this guide. If you have a Master's, Diploma, or Bachelor's degree from a Melbourne university, we'll explain why this visa is important, what your options are, and how to make your trip to Australia after you finish school go smoothly.
This visa has two main streams:
This is part of the Post Higher Education Work Stream, which shows that the Australian government wants to keep skilled graduates.
BackWhat Is a Post Study Work Visa in Australia?
The Post Study Work Visa (PSWV), also known as the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485), is for international students who have just graduated from an Australian school. It allows you to stay in Australia temporarily to live, study, and work. You may be able to work full-time for 2 to 4 years, depending on your level of education and where you study. If you have the right qualifications, you may even be able to work full-time for longer.
This visa has two main streams:
- Previously known as the Post-Study Work Stream, the Post-Higher Education Work Stream
- Graduate Work Stream
Why Melbourne Is a Top Destination for Post Study Work Visa Holders
QS Rankings says that Melbourne is always one of the Top 10 Best Student Cities in the World. But what really makes it stand out is the job market it offers after graduation.- More than 40% of international students decide to stay in Melbourne after they get their degree.
- Many skilled graduates are looking for jobs in the city's growing industries, such as tech, healthcare, construction, and education.
- The Victorian Government still helps international graduates find jobs and do things after they finish their studies.
Who Is Eligible for the Post Study Work Visa Australia?
Your eligibility depends on your qualifications and the courses you've taken. To qualify, you need the following:
- You need to have finished a course in Australia that is registered with CRICOS.
- For the Post Higher Education Work Stream, you need at least a Bachelor's degree. For the Graduate Work Stream, you need a Diploma or trade qualification.
- You must have had a valid student visa in the last six months.
- You need to meet the requirements for English language, health, and character.
1. Post Higher Education Work Stream (For Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral Graduates)
This stream is for you if you have a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degree. Duration:- Bachelor’s degree → 2 years
- Master’s by coursework → 3 years
- Master’s by research or PhD → 4 years
This is part of the Post Higher Education Work Stream, which shows that the Australian government wants to keep skilled graduates.
2. Graduate Work Stream (For Diploma and Trade Graduates)
If you have a diploma or trade qualification, this stream can help you get useful work experience in your field.- Duration: Up to 18 months (some jobs can now last up to 24 months).
- Requirement: Your chosen job must be on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
What Can You Do on a 485 Visa?
You can do the following things once you get your 485 visa for Australia:- You can work full-time in any field.
- Bring your spouse or partner with you to work.
- Continue your education or look into professional year programmes.
- Get some useful work experience in Australia, which is necessary if you want to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) later.
How to Apply for a Post Study Work Visa After Masters in Australia
Here's a clear, step-by-step plan: Prepare Your Documents:- A passport and school records
- A letter of completion and an official degree from your Melbourne university. Proof of English language competency (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE).
- Certificates of health and character
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Even though thousands of graduates get their post-study work visa Australia, there are some problems that come up a lot:- Make sure you're applying under the right stream (Graduate or Higher Education) to avoid confusion.
- Documents that aren't complete - If you don't send in your completion letters or health checks, processing may take longer.
- Misunderstanding the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) - Always be clear about your study and career goals.
How the 485 Visa Supports Long-Term Career Goals
The post-study work visa in Australia is more than just a temporary permit, it's a way to get a job and stay in the country for good. Here’s how it helps:- Getting Local Experience: A lot of Australian employers like candidates who have worked in Australia before.
- Increasing PR Pathways: If you work while on a 485 visa, it can help you get an employer-sponsored or skilled migration visa later.
- Networking Opportunities: You'll get to know the professional culture in Australia and make connections that will help you grow your career over time.
What’s Next After Your Post Study Work Visa?
When your visa period is about to end, you have a few choices:- You can get a Permanent Residency (PR) through the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) or the Employer-Sponsored Visa (subclass 186).
- To improve your qualifications, go back to school in Melbourne.
- Change to other work visa options based on your level of experience.
