Australia Post Study Work Visa

Australia Post Study Work Visa – Extend Your Journey Beyond Graduation

For many international students, studying in Australia is just the beginning. After completing their degree, the next big step is to gain work experience in one of the world’s most dynamic economies. The Australia Post Study Work Visa (Subclass 485) offers graduates the opportunity to stay back, work full-time, and enhance their career prospects. This visa bridges the gap between education and professional growth, making Australia one of the most attractive destinations for international students.

What is the Australia Post Study Work Visa?

The Australia Post Study Work Visa is part of the Temporary Graduate Visa program. It allows international students who have completed a recognized qualification in Australia to live, work, and gain industry experience for a certain period. This visa also falls under the broader Australia work visa options, giving graduates a chance to build their careers and gain practical exposure. The duration depends on the qualification level, ranging from 2 to 4 years for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral graduates.

Key Benefits of the Australia Post Study Work Visa

• Work Experience in Australia: Gain practical knowledge and industry exposure in your field of study.
• Stay Back Options: Depending on your qualification, you can extend your stay in Australia to build a stronger career profile.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Work experience gained through this visa may strengthen your eligibility for PR pathways.
• Family Benefits: You can include eligible family members in your visa application.
• Global Career Recognition: Australian work experience adds immense value to your resume and future opportunities worldwide.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the Australia Post Study Work Visa, you need to:

• Hold a valid student visa at the time of application.
• Have completed a course registered under CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students).
• Meet the minimum English language proficiency requirements.
• Be under the age of 50 at the time of application.
• Hold adequate health insurance and meet character requirements.

Types of Graduate Visa Streams

There are two main streams under the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485):

• Post-Study Work Stream (PSW)

For international students who:

• Completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree
• Studied at a CRICOS-registered institution
• Met the Australian study requirement (minimum 2 academic years)

Visa Duration:

• Bachelor’s Degree: 2 years
• Master’s by Coursework: 2 years
• Master’s by Research: 3 years
• Doctorate (PhD): 4 years
• +1-2 extra years if you studied in a regional area
• Graduate Work Stream

For those who:

• Completed a Diploma or Certificate related to occupations on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL)
• Want to gain work experience relevant to their trade or profession

Visa Duration: Up to 18 months

As of 2025, select trade qualifications may qualify for extended stays based on regional demand.

Who Is Eligible for a Post Study Work Visa in Australia?

To qualify, you must meet the following:

• Be under 50 years old
• Hold an eligible student visa (Subclass 500 or 573)
• Have completed a registered course in the last 6 months
• Meet the Australian Study Requirement (minimum 92 weeks of study in Australia)
• Provide evidence of English proficiency
• Have adequate health insurance (OVHC)
• Meet health and character requirements

Required Documents for Australia PSWV Application

Here’s what you need:

• Passport (valid for your entire stay)
• Completion letter and official transcripts
• IELTS/PTE score (unless exempt)
• Proof of OSHC/OVHC insurance
• AFP Police Check
• Skills assessment (only for Graduate Work Stream)
• Visa application fee payment receipt

Can You Bring Your Family on the Australia PSWV?

Yes. You can include dependents such as:

• Spouse or de facto partner
• Children under 18 years

Dependents will have full work and study rights during your visa period.

What Comes After the Post Study Visa?

Here are the most common migration pathways for graduates:

• Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)

Points-tested PR visa for occupations on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)

• Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

PR visa nominated by a state or territory

• Employer Sponsored Visas (482, 186)

Get sponsored by an Australian employer in your field

• Regional PR Pathways (491, 494)

Work and live in designated regional areas for 3–5 years and transition to PR

How to Apply for the Australia PSWV: Step-by-Step

• Gather documents (transcripts, passport, AFP check, OSHC)
• Sit an English test (unless exempt)
• Apply online through ImmiAccount
• Attach documents and pay the visa fee
• Complete biometrics or health checks (if requested)
• Wait for visa approval

Don’t wait too long; apply within 6 months of completing your course.

Popular Fields for Post Study Work in Australia

These fields are in high demand for work and PR:

• Nursing and Healthcare
• Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical)
• IT and Cybersecurity
• Teaching (Early Childhood and Secondary)
• Construction and Project Management
• Hospitality and Culinary Arts
• Agriculture and Environmental Science

Studying in these areas increases your chances of finding employment and securing PR.

Why Choose Zealand Immigration India?

At Zealand Immigration India, we understand the importance of continuing your journey in Australia after graduation. Our team of experts helps you with every step of the process — from assessing eligibility and preparing documents to submitting applications and ensuring compliance with visa conditions. We also guide students exploring Australia graduate programs, helping them smoothly transition from being a student to a professional in Australia.

Conclusion

The Australia Post Study Work Visa is more than just an extension, it’s an opportunity to secure your future, build international work experience, and explore pathways to permanent residency. If you’ve completed your studies in Australia, don’t let the opportunity slip away.

Contact Zealand Immigration India today and let us help you apply for your Post Study Work Visa in Australia. Take the next step towards your global career with expert guidance and complete support.