PTE Academic for Australia’s 485 Visa: Requirements, Processing Time, and Extensions

PTE Academic for Australia's 485 Visa: Requirements, Processing Time, and Extensions

If you're an international student in Australia aiming to stay longer and gain valuable work experience, the Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is an excellent pathway. It allows graduates to live, study, and work temporarily in Australia, providing a crucial stepping stone toward permanent residency. In this post, we’ll explore the requirements, processing times, and recent extensions for the 485 visa, while also highlighting how PTE Academic, available at PTE Labs, plays a critical role in the application process.

Understanding the 485 Visa

The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is ideal for international graduates looking to extend their stay in Australia. It’s divided into two streams:

Graduate Work Stream: For graduates with skills related to an occupation on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL).
Post-Study Work Stream: Available to international students who have completed a higher education degree in Australia. This stream isn’t tied to specific occupations.

485 Visa Requirements


To apply for a 485 visa, here are the key eligibility requirements you need to meet:

1. Age Limit: You must be under 50 years of age.
2. English Language Proficiency: You need to demonstrate your English proficiency through tests like PTE Academic, which is one of the accepted options. With PTE Labs, you can prepare with mock tests and personalized study materials.
3. Education: You must have completed a CRICOS-registered course in Australia, satisfying the Australian study requirement (minimum two years).
4. Visa Status: You need to hold an eligible visa, typically a student visa, or have held one within the past six months.
5. Health Insurance: You must maintain adequate health insurance coverage throughout your stay.
6. Character Requirements: Provide an AFP check (Australian Federal Police check).


485 Visa Processing Time

Processing times for the 485 visa vary depending on the stream:

Graduate Work Stream: 75% of applications are processed in 4 months, with 90% completed within 5 months.
Post-Study Work Stream: 75% of applications are processed in 78 days, with 90% taking around 5 months.

Efficient preparation for the visa, including timely submission of all required documents and proficiency tests like PTE Academic, can help expedite the process.

Extensions for 485 Visa (Post-Study Work Stream)

A significant benefit of the Post-Study Work Stream is the option for an extended stay under the Second Post-Study Work Visa. Graduates from Australian regional areas can extend their stay by one to two years, while those in major cities may qualify for a two-year extension. This extension is designed to allow graduates to continue working in Australia, building valuable experience toward a future permanent visa application.

For those in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), recent changes also allow longer stays, aligning with Australia’s focus on addressing skilled labor shortages.


PTE Academic: Essential for Your 485 Visa Application

One of the critical requirements for the 485 visa is demonstrating your English proficiency, and PTE Academic is a popular choice for many applicants. Accepted by the Australian government, PTE Academic offers:

Fast results—usually within 48 hours.
AI-powered scoring, ensuring fair and consistent evaluation.
Computer-based testing, allowing you to complete the exam without the pressure of face-to-face assessments.

At PTE Labs, you can prepare for your PTE Academic test through various resources, including mock tests, practice exercises, and detailed guides. This will help you achieve the necessary scores and improve your chances of visa approval.


Tips for Preparing for PTE Academic at PTE Labs,

Preparing for PTE Academic is crucial to securing your 485 visa, and PTE Labs, provides everything you need for success. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Take Practice Tests: Simulate the real test environment with scored practice tests on PTE Labs. This helps you familiarize yourself with the test structure and question types.
2. Study Resources: Access a variety of study materials to sharpen your skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
3. Time Management: Ensure you manage your time effectively during practice sessions to avoid rushing during the actual test.
4. Track Your Progress: Use PTE Labs advanced tools to analyze your performance and adjust your study plan accordingly.


Making the Right Choice

Choosing between the Graduate Work Stream and the Post-Study Work Stream largely depends on your career goals and visa requirements. If your aim is to stay in Australia for an extended period, build a career, or even explore pathways to permanent residency, the 485 visa is an excellent option.

Remember, proving your English proficiency through PTE Academic is a critical part of the process. Visit PTE Labs, for all the tools and resources you need to ace your PTE Academic test and secure your visa.

Final Thoughts


The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) offers a fantastic opportunity for international students to gain valuable work experience in Australia. By carefully preparing your application, meeting the English proficiency requirements with PTE Academic, and leveraging the resources at PTE Labs, you can significantly increase your chances of visa approval.

If you're ready to start your journey, PTE Labs is here to guide you every step of the way—offering personalized support, mock tests, and much more to help you achieve your immigration dreams.

    • Related Articles

    • What PTE Score Do You Need for the 189 Visa?

      If you're planning to migrate to Australia, understanding the PTE Academic score requirements for the Skilled Independent Subclass 189 Visa can help you streamline your application process and increase your chances of success. Why Choose PTE for Your ...
    • Top Universities in Australia that Accept PTE Academic

      Are you planning to study in Australia? If so, you’ll need to prove your English language proficiency. The Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic is widely accepted by Australian universities as an official language proficiency test. It's a fast, ...
    • How Much PTE Score is Required for Australia: A Comprehensive Guide

      If you're planning to study, work, or migrate to Australia, understanding the required PTE Academic score is crucial for visa and university applications. This guide will help you navigate the PTE score requirements for various Australian purposes, ...
    • PTE Booking in Australia: Your Guide to Success

      Are you ready to take the PTE Academic exam in Australia? Whether you're aiming to study at a prestigious university, apply for a visa, or enhance your career prospects, booking your PTE test is a vital step in showcasing your English language ...
    • Australian Loans for International Students – PTE Academic Requirements and Financial Aid Options

      Australia is a popular destination for international students seeking quality education. However, studying in Australia can be costly, which is why securing a loan is crucial for many students. In addition to meeting academic requirements, like a ...