The student visa gets you here; the 485 keeps you here to work after you graduate. Both reward planning — and the 485 has a strict, one-time eligibility window that's easy to miss.
Pradeep Kaur (MARN 2619342) handles student and graduate-visa matters for applicants across the Mid North Coast and Australia-wide. Whether you're applying for your first subclass 500, extending to a new course, or moving onto a 485 graduate visa after finishing your degree, we'll map the pathway so each visa sets up the next — including the skilled or employer-sponsored route to permanent residence that many graduates ultimately want.
For studying a registered full-time course in Australia. Covers your studies plus limited work rights, and can include family members. The Genuine Student (and Genuine Temporary Entrant) requirement is where many applications are won or lost.
Subclass 500For recent graduates of an Australian qualification. Lets you live, work and study after your course — valuable time to gain experience and build toward a skilled or sponsored visa.
Subclass 485For graduates of a bachelor, masters or doctoral degree. Visa length depends on your qualification, with extra time available for some regional study.
Subclass 485For graduates of eligible trade and vocational qualifications linked to occupations on the relevant list. We confirm eligibility before you apply.
Subclass 485Studying and living in a regional area such as the Mid North Coast can extend your 485 and add points toward a later skilled visa. Graduates who plan their study location with the visa endgame in mind often end up years ahead on the PR pathway.
It's the test Home Affairs uses to be satisfied you genuinely intend to study in Australia. Your statement and supporting evidence need to address your study choice, your circumstances and your plans. A weak statement is a common reason for student-visa refusal — we help you get it right.
It depends on your qualification and stream, generally ranging from around 18 months to several years, with extra time available for some regional study. We confirm your exact entitlement at consultation.
Student (500) visas carry limited work rights subject to conditions; the 485 generally allows full work rights for its duration. We explain the current rules for your situation.
The 485 is best used as a runway. Common next steps are a skilled visa (491/190/189) or an employer-sponsored visa (482/494/186). We plan this with you early so the pathway is in place before the 485 ends.
Call 0402 942 136 or book online. We'll map your student-to-PR pathway so no visa window is wasted.
Content approved by Principal Migration Agent Pradeep Kaur (MARN 2619342). Last reviewed: June 2026.