If you are planning to study in Australia in 2026, your preparation should go beyond academics. It is equally important to think about life after graduation and your future career prospects. Having a clear post-graduation plan matters, as the right step can lead you toward long-term success.
This is why students are strongly encouraged to explore post-study work opportunities after completing their studies. Post-study work options help you gain financial independence, build professional networks, develop time management skills, and grow both personally and professionally. To take advantage of these opportunities, you will need a post-study work visa or an Australian work permit. Holding a post-study work visa in Australia can also support your pathway toward permanent residency.
In this blog, you will learn everything you need to know about the post-study work visa in Australia, Australian work visas for Indians, eligibility requirements, visa fees, and other essential details related to working in Australia after graduation.
What is a Post Study Work Visa in Australia?
The Post Study Work Visa Australia is generally a temporary visa that permits international students to live, work, and gain experience in Australia for a fixed period of time. Students who have completed a degree from an Australian institution can benefit from a post-study work visa in Australia. This visa falls under the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).
A post-study work visa in Australia benefits students by helping them explore their theoretical knowledge in practical settings, improving skills, helping them secure long-term employment or getting a permit for permanent residence in Australia.
Types of Post Study Work Visas in Australia
Under the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), there are two main types of post study work visas in Australia. Let’s have a look at them:
| Visas | Eligibility | Duration |
| Post-Study Work Stream | Students who have completed minimum 2 years of study in Australia. Students can have a bachelor’s, master’s or a PhD degree. | For Bachelor’s degree: 2-4 years For Master’s degree: 3 to 5 years For PhD: up to 6 years |
| Graduate Work Stream | Students who have completed Vocational Education and Training (VET) in courses related to Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL) | 18 months – 2 years, (Depends on applicants) |
Post Study Work Visa in Australia Requirements
If you are planning to work in Australia after completing your higher education, this information will be highly useful. Under the Post-Study Work Visa Australia requirements, you need to understand both the general eligibility criteria and the post-study work stream. Here are the key requirements:
- You must be under 50 years of age.
- You must hold an eligible visa, such as a Student Visa (Subclass 500).
- You must have completed at least two years of study in Australia.
- You must hold an undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD degree from an Australian university.
- The course you studied must be CRICOS-registered and taught in English.
- You must apply for the post-study work visa within six months of completing your course.
- You must hold a valid passport.
- You must meet English language proficiency requirements, such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- You must have valid health insurance, such as OSHC or OVHC.
- You must meet health and character requirements, including providing a character certificate.
How Long Can You Stay with a Post-Study Work Visa in Australia?
The duration of your stay depends on the Australia work permit visa under the Post-Study Work Stream, which varies based on your qualification level. For example, the period of your stay in Australia for graduate and postgraduate students differs. The below listed table below can clear everything out.
| Qualification | Visa Duration (2026) |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 2 to 4 years |
| Master’s by Coursework | 3 to 5 years |
| Master’s by Research | Up to 5 years |
| PhD | Up to 6 years |
| VET (Diploma/Certificate) | Up to 2 years (Graduate Work Stream) |
Australia Work Visa Fees for Indian Students
If you are applying for an Australian work visa, then the fees vary according to the visa type. For example, if you apply for a graduate, master’s or PhD visa, you will be asked to pay according to your higher education. Here’s a breakdown of the Australia work visa fees (Subclass 485) for 2026:
| Visa Type | Base Application Fee (AUD) | Approx. INR (2026) |
| Graduate Work Stream | AUD 1,895 | 1,07,843 |
| Post-Study Work Stream | AUD 1,895 | 1,07,843 |
| Additional applicants (18+) | AUD 950 | 54,063 |
| Additional applicants (<18) | AUD 475 | 27,031 |
How to Apply for a Post Study Work Visa in Australia?
To work and live in Australia after completing your studies, you must hold a post-study work visa. This visa allows you to remain in Australia for a specific period and gain valuable work experience. If you are wondering how to apply for a post-study work visa in Australia, this section explains the process from the beginning. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you apply:
- First, confirm your eligibility by reviewing your educational qualifications, English language proficiency, health requirements, and the specific visa stream you are applying for.
- Next, gather all required documents, including your passport, academic transcripts and course completion letter, English proficiency test scores, health insurance proof, police clearance certificate, résumé, and skills statement.
- Create an ImmiAccount to start your online application by registering on the Australian Government ImmiAccount portal.
- Complete and submit your visa application form online, along with all supporting documents, including your character and police clearance certificates.
- Finally, wait for the visa decision, as processing times can take approximately 7–10 months, depending on the visa stream.
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Conclusion
For Indian students aspiring to build a successful future and global career, the post-study work visa in Australia offers an excellent opportunity. It not only allows students to gain valuable work experience and explore diverse career options but also helps them begin their pathway toward permanent residency. Therefore, to obtain a post-study work visa in Australia, it is essential to meet all the eligibility requirements. Whether you have completed an undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD program, you must apply for the appropriate visa accordingly.