Introduction
The 485 visa, also known as the Temporary Graduate Visa, is a key stepping stone for international students in Australia. Whether you’re applying solo or bringing your family along, knowing the 485 subsequent entrant visa checklist, timelines, and long-term migration strategies is crucial. In this blog, we break down everything, from 485 spouse visa processing time after medical to whether you can extend your 485 visa, and what comes next when aiming for PR.
485 Subsequent Entrant Visa Checklist & Processing Time
If you’re planning to bring your dependents or spouse to Australia after you’ve already been granted the 485 visa, you’ll need to lodge a 485 subsequent entrant visa. The 485 subsequent entrant visa checklist includes key documents like:
Certified copies of passport bio-data pages
Relationship evidence (marriage certificate, joint accounts, etc.)
Evidence of health insurance
Proof of your visa holder’s status (main 485 holder)
The 485 subsequent entrant visa processing time in 2025 is typically between 3 to 6 months, but this may vary depending on the complexity of your case.
485 Dependent & Spouse Visa Processing Time
The 485 dependent visa processing time and 485 spouse visa processing time can be unpredictable due to health assessments and case loads. For most applicants:
- Standard 485 spouse visa processing time is around 3-6 months
- If medicals are required, 485 spouse visa processing time after medical adds another 2–4 weeks
| Visa Application | Average Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Standard Spouse Visa | 3-6 Months |
| Spouse Visa After Medical | Additional 2-4 weeks |
Submitting well-organized documents (especially police clearances and health checks) can significantly speed up the process. For up-to-date information click here.
Post Study Work Visa Australia: What It Covers
The post study work visa Australia stream under the 485 subclass is highly attractive to recent graduates. It allows you to:
Work full-time in Australia
Gain local work experience
Transition to skilled migration visas
The duration depends on your qualification. For example, a Master’s by coursework grants 3 years, while a PhD allows 4 years of work rights.
Can I Extend My 485 Visa?
If your 485 visa is nearing expiry, you may wonder: can I extend my 485 visa? The answer is, not directly. You cannot “extend” it like a tourist visa, but in some cases, such as:
Holding a degree linked to the Extended Post-Study Work Rights list (Eligibility Ended in 2024)
Living in a regional area (1-2 years extension depending on city/region of study)
COVID-19 affected visa holders eligible for replacement visas may apply for a second 485 visa stream if you meet specific conditions.
PR After 485: What Comes Next?
Many graduates ask, “What visa can I apply after 485?” or search for visa options after 485. Here are some pathways:
Skilled Independent (subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated (190)
Employer-sponsored visas like 186
State or regional nomination via 491
Using the 485 visa period to build local work experience, improve your English score, and gather PR points is key. Those searching 485 to pr options should explore skill assessments and expression of interest (EOI) early.
Final Tips
- Always keep your health insurance active
- Start preparing documents for dependents/spouse early
- Check for state-specific PR pathway incentives
- Monitor Home Affairs updates on 485 policy changes
- Keep a back-up visa plan ready
Conclusion
The 485 visa isn’t just a post-study grace period, it’s your chance to lay a foundation for permanent migration. Whether you’re checking the 485 subsequent entrant visa checklist, monitoring your 485 dependent visa processing time, or planning the transition from 485 to PR, staying informed is your best tool.
Need help navigating your post-study journey? Contact Kandel Consultancy for a personalized consultation today!